Woman This Month - May 2016

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

May 2016 | Issue 159 | BD1 / SR10

Bridal Bonanza Dresses, make-up, gifts and more

www.womanthismonth.com

Wellbeing

The eyes have it

FOOD

TRAVEL

Rockin’ all over the world

Fashion

Wedding wear for all occasions

Chocolatey indulgence

Parenting

Building a blended brood

MUMS MEET-UP Cooking with confidence

DreamMakers Computer

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MAY

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8 Diary 10 News: Hot Shots

SHOPPING

14 Editor’s Choice: White Factor 16 Pick of the Month: Our Favourite Things

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FASHION

18 Trend: Blue Jeans 22 Fashion Forward: Shop Like a Fashionista 24 Get the Look: Guest List 26 Style Radar: What the stars are wearing

PEOPLE

28 Hala Kaiksow: New star designer 29 Lamar Kanafani: Mental health advocate

WEDDING FEATURE

32 Sara Al Salman: Words from a wedding planner 34 Dresses: Say Yes to the Dress 44 Make-up: Perfect looks for every skin tone

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BEAUTY

46 News: The latest products in the stores

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LIFESTYLE

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52 Wellbeing: Say Eye 57 Parenting: Step by Step 58 Parenting: Dr Jinan on warts and verrucas 59 Parenting: Kids' Playground 61 Parenting: Mums’ Meet-up 62 Home: Moving house 64 Travel: Rockin' All Over the World 68 Food: Review 69 Food: Wedding Bites 70 Horoscope: What to expect this month 72 Last Word: In Her Shoes – Hina Mirza

For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail sales@womanthismonth.com.

The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

Editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at editor@womanthismonth.com. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed.

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May 2016

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EDITOR’S NOTE

he weather’s warming up and the wedding season is about to go into overdrive. Hotels have wedding fairs with many venues coming up with special offers to host the festivities. And, of course, we have our annual wedding feature including dresses, make-up, ideas for wedding favours, funky foods and a chat with wedding planner Sara Al Salman.

This month we also talked to Hala Kaiksow, the young Bahraini designer who took London Fashion Week by storm, to find out her inspirations and future plans. And trailblazer Lamar Kanafani told us about her fight to get marriage and family therapy recognised as an official mental health discipline, making the field of counselling much safer for users.

In our parenting section, Dr Jinan deals with the dreaded scourge of warts and, in keeping with our wedding theme, we take a look at expert advice on blending families for those tying the knot for the second time. You’ll also find details of this month’s Mums’ Meet-up – sadly, the dinosaurs have been postponed, for reasons beyond our control, but we’ve got another treat in store for May. In the wellbeing section Behnaz Sanjana gets the lowdown on eye care and Fitness First shares an inspiring weight loss case study while in travel, Ankita Mamgain takes her last virtual trip before heading to pastures new. Being a bit of a rock chick, it’s fitting that her final piece is a round-up of some of the world’s most awesome music festivals.

As always we’ve got plenty of fashion and beauty and lots more besides. Enjoy the May issue and why not let us know what you think?

chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY marketing & electronic media director DEEPA SIVA fashion & beauty editor FERNANDA LANGHAMMER The only assistant editor 's en wom ANKITA MAMGAIN contributors magazine APPLE SHARMA h distributed wit BEHNAZ SANJANA the GDN DR JINAN DARWISH RAPHAEL creative director ANDRE BIGG print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics ROMEO SAN MIGUEL JAYATH TEKI media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media manager FARHEEN AHMED circulation KADAMBARI S photography editor MONA ABDUL JABBAR photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press UNION PRESS, BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2016© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 Woman This Month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle.

Bahrain office address Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: editor@womanthismonth.com website: www.womanthismonth.com

Enjoy!

Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing P. O. Box 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director Daum sculpture Rosenthal Versace Medusa platter Mario Cioni vase

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May 2016

Since we’re all about weddings this month, I’ve come up with a few pieces I’d be delighted to receive and there’s not a piece of dodgy kitchen equipment in sight. In search of the perfect gift, I headed to Tanagra at City Centre Bahrain and discovered some beauties that might even make me consider taking the plunge again.

Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

May 2016 | Issue 159 | BD1 / SR10

Bridal Bonanza Dresses, make-up, gifts and more

www.womanthismonth.com

Wellbeing

The eyes have it

May 2016, Issue 159 On the cover: Oscar de la Renta

FOOD

TRAVEL

Rockin’ all over the world

Fashion

Wedding wear for all occasions

Chocolatey indulgence

Parenting

Building a blended brood

MUMS MEET-UP

Cooking with confidence

www.womanthismonth.com

For the Perfect Summer Wedding Commemorate your special ceremony at the glorious Thuraya ballroom infused with contemporary arabesque design and state of the art technology to fulfil your every wish.

For reservations or more information, please call +973 16000111 or email events.art@rotana.com P. O. Box 50949, Amwaj Islands, Bahrain, T: +973 16000111, art.hotel@rotana.com

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Get in touch by email, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram!

Letter

Spring-Summer 2016 I subscribe to quite a few fashion magazines; some local ones, mostly international and would really like to congratulate WTM and especially Fernanda Langhammer on her brilliant coverage of trends, season after season. It’s always hard to get such a consolidated report and she spells it out really well with no ambiguity at all. What I personally like is the fact that along with runway images, we also get a glimpse of the collections of various high street brands that we might actually find in the stores in Bahrain or the region.

Tanya.

Checking In to Success What a beautifully written piece and thanks WTM for bringing to light the amazing story of Anne-Marie Dowling. We need to read and hear about more such women, especially if they made it to the top all by themselves.

By reading more about her I realise that, although we do make our own destiny, it’s also not imperative to know from the very start where you want to go. I think about the amount of pressure young students have on them in order to succeed in life and, as parents and teachers, we don’t really give them a chance to enjoy the learning process or even let them explore their options. A lot of emphasis in laid on knowing your ‘ambition’ even before you start serious school. Through the article I can also see how humble Anna-Marie is and she does not want to shy away from the fact that she was not academically gifted. This is completely alien to me, someone who grew up in a very conventional Indian family where it’s a matter of great embarrassment for your family if you are an under performer in school.

Archana.

Taking Your Breath Away I always look forward to reading Dr Jinan’s insightful articles each month.

Her piece on anaphylaxis was greatly informative especially for those parents who have small kids. It’s really hard to imagine how some of the most widely consumed foods such as peanuts and berries can be fatal if they cause a reaction. I understand alertness is important but it would be extremely helpful if at some point more information could be shared.

Perhaps if there are any particular medical tests that can ascertain food allergies and what is the earliest age at which they can be conducted? I have a six-month old niece and I am extremely protective of her.

The following #WTM post was favourited and retweeted most on Twitter.

WTM’s tweet about registering for our Kitchen Star cooking contest was the most favourited tweet.

“It's your last day to register for the best cooking contest on the island #wtm #bahrain”

When followers were asked what would be the perfect spot to have a wedding in Bahrain some of what they came back with included: Four Seasons which was said to be perfect with its superb customer service, food and how beautiful it is there; Sofitel was described as romantic and La Fontaine as magical.

The Most talked about picture on WTM’s Instagram

The most liked post on Instagram was a quote about women: “It is hard to be a woman; you must think like a man, act like a lady, look like a young girl and work like a horse.”

Sabah.

The Most Liked Post on Facebook WTM’s post about Kitchen Star was the most liked post on Facebook.

“Thank you to our sponsors for all the support and to the participants for their enthusiasm in making Woman This Month's Kitchen Star a brilliant day for all with cooking that's healthy and awesome fitness sessions... Citi, Jawad Supermarket, Nespresso, Intercol Canon Authorized Distributor, Canon Middle East, Microsoft Lumia, Moulinex Middle East, Bath & Body Works Middle East, Lifestyle, Capital Club-Bahrain, REPS Fitness Studios, Sharon Linde, Lakeland GCC, @intercol, Microsoft, @ khomes&kitchen #wtm #bahrain”

We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at editor@womanthismonth.com Follow us on:

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May 2016

Instagram: @woman_this_month

Twitter: @WomanThisMonthB

Facebook: Woman This Month www.womanthismonth.com

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diary

MAY

SAVE THE DATE From ways to progress professionally to summer beach parties, this month looks packed with of lots of action and here’s your guide to plan ahead.

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May 2016

Art Exhibition The Domain Hotel and Spa, in association with UNESCO and the European Parliament, will host Summer Art, an exhibition that will run till the end of May. The display will feature paintings and sculptures by a number of talented European and Bahraini artists.

Some of the artworks being displayed have been exhibited in prestigious museums such as The Louvre in Paris.

Call 16 000-000.

Beat Beach Music Festival Beat Beach Music Festival returns with another event to remember this month. A massive space with futuristic designs and lights made specially for this night will be set up at Bahrain’s hottest beach at Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort. This edition of the event will have two dance floors and a massive line-up of DJs. The Main Stage will have the hottest DJs in town playing your favourite tunes from hip-hop and R&B to EDM. The Underground Room will be all about the hottest alternative house music and techno tunes. Call 66 302-112.

Novotel

Oasis Training Centre is running two skills development programmes, in partnership with Chartwell Learning & Development UK, entitled Positive Power and Influence. The sessions run May 9-10 and May 11-12, which is a ladies only event and aims to address the different challenges women face in areas of professional leadership. Customised for the GCC, Oasis states: “Our association with Lean In challenges us to change the conversation from what women can’t do to what we can do.

Let’s work together to create a more equal world!” Call 17 330-823.

Animania Bahrain 2016 Gear up gaming nerds as Animania Bahrain returns with another exhilarating edition of non-stop gaming and anime action. Started in 2010, the event has gained immense popularity in the region and is one of the most anticipated annual conventions in the country. The main feature will be gaming competitions and discussions between the gaming community in Bahrain and the GCC. Another attraction is the massive cos-play display where attendees dress up as their favourite characters from anime shows or video games and interact with other patrons. The convention will also feature an art gallery. Call 34 301-991.

Cirque Le Soir Drop in for Bushido’s seventh anniversary party that features DJ Albert-L. This fantastical circus-themed event promises a unique show as you'll be transported into a world of crazy costumes, magicians, clowns, sword-swallowers, fire-eaters, contortionists and stilt walkers among a host of other weird and wonderful entertainment. Iron your coat tails, dust off the top hat and prepare for a night like no other. Ladies’ entry is free till 10pm after which they will be charged BD10. Men pay BD15.

Call 17 583-555.

Women in business

Animania

www.womanthismonth.com

NEWS | hot shots

OPRAH INBOUND?

Could TV icon Oprah Winfrey be heading to Bahrain? The answer, apparently, is yes! Wellness guru Dr Deepak Chopra, who has worked with the talk show queen, was recently in the Kingdom for a workshop and organisers, the Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail, revealed they are in discussions for Oprah to join him on his next visit, possibly as soon as November.

Institute director Nigel Viegas said he and his team had been negotiating with Oprah for almost three years and they are currently suggesting she could speak on the issue of women’s empowerment, which is a hot topic in the region. He said the likelihood of her coming was as high as 90 per cent.

BOLLYWOOD BOUND

Local youngster Suzi khan, aged six, is living the Bollywood dream after landing a plum role of superstar Salman khan’s daughter in his upcoming movie Sultan, one of the biggest movies of the year. Produced by Yash Raj Films, the blockbuster is scheduled for release over Eid. The schoolgirl beauty is a veteran in front of the camera having been modelling since she was just a year old with many shoots in Bahrain and Dubai. But this is her first Bollywood role and she and her family are hugely excited.

BAHRAINI BITES THE BIG APPLE

Bahrain Women Association president Dr Wajeeha AlBaharna took part in the 60th session of Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York. The commission is part of the United Nations and this year’s main theme was 'Empowerment of women and sustainable development'. Dr Al-Baharna was among the speakers at the meeting organised by the global campaign for equal citizenship rights where she gave a presentation on the efforts of the national campaign for citizenship in the Kingdom which aims to amend the Nationality Law to ensure the right of Bahraini women in granting citizenship to their children.

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New stars, new cars and the latest snippets from the world at large.

DESTINATION SHOPPING

Connoisseurs of high-end style and trusted names synonymous with sophistication, need look no further than Tanagra in City Centre Bahrain for the finest gifts and accessories.

From graduations to birthdays and, of course, weddings – if the occasion calls for a really special gift, this is the place to go for a refined and edited array of options. And for extra convenience the store also runs a wedding registry allowing guests to choose gifts across a wide price range whilst knowing they are picking something the bride and groom really want.

THE CAR’S THE STAR

There’s a new star in Bahrain’s motoring world with the arrival of the latest Porsche 911 at Behbehani Brothers. Now available in a range of model variants including coupe and cabriolet, the new 911 features entirely new turbocharged power units evolved from the racetrack to the road, as part of Porsche’s commitment to technology transfer. This gives the world's best-selling sports car a boost in performance alongside significantly improved fuel economy. On the exterior, the new 911 impresses with an evolutionary yet further sharpened design, while inside it features the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system delivering improved connectivity and controls. www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Kitchen Star Season 2

Woman This Month held its second dazzling Kitchen Star cooking competition at the Capital Club.

And the winner is: Team Gourment Crackers! Rosali, Farheen, Fabiana, Anne, George, chef Sylvester, Alessandra, chef Alexandra, Manal & chef Stephen

Team Freezer Swap: Lia, Lisa, Iman & Nadine

Team Foodie Fix: Valerie, Maria, Valeria & Ires

Citibank Team

12 May 2016

Nepresso Team

Alexandra, Stephen & Martin

The chefs with WTM and Nespresso Team

Team Blend it like Beckham: Val, Beverley-Ann, Sarwat & Neetu

www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Makeover sessions at the event

Al Rashid Group Team

Making cupcakes with the Lakeland Team

Judges awarded at the event

Linda, Nicholas & Lynne

Sharon performing a fitness routine

REPS Fitness Team

Woman This Month team

Alison, George, Ratna, Nor Hayati, Kholi, Junghee, Charmaine, Anne & Tik

www.womanthismonth.com

Ali & George

Farheen, Edralyn, Bharti & Randa

Audience at the event

May 2016

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Monique Lhuillier

SHOPPING | editor's choice

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WHITE

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FACTOR

It is brides’ month and, if the wedding is not ethnic, the most popular colour chosen by women for their special day is the traditional white. This neutral shade is a great choice to paint your everyday wear during the hot weather and a versatile shade for your home dÊcor too. Classically beautiful!

1. Top: Bershka; 2. Magazine holder: Laura Ashley; 3. Shorts: Mothercare; 4. Handbag: Stradivarius; 5. Flat shoes: Dune London; 6. Flower pen: Folli Follie;

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7. Dress: COS; 8. Headphones: Bose; 9. Lamp: Debenhams; 10. Bathroom towels: BHS.

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SHOPPING | pick of the month

A Few of Our Favourite Things

Wedding favours are small gifts from the bride and groom given as a gesture of appreciation to guests at a wedding reception.

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he tradition is an old one, thought to have originated with European aristocrats who would hand out small trinket boxes of crystal or porcelain, often set with precious stones and containing sugary treats which, in those days, symbolised wealth since sugar was very expensive.

As the price of sugar fell, the custom was taken up by less wealthy sectors of society with sugared almonds encased in net and

ribbons becoming a common sight at the wedding table.

These days, brides and grooms are often keen to give their guests something precious with which to remember the big day and Tanagra, at City Centre Bahrain, has a range of wedding favours that would delight any recipient.

Delight your senses with scented pot pourri

by Vetrart contained in hand-blown glass hearts or mini sacks. These look beautiful and are the perfect combination of sight and smell with a range of scents including white ginger, vanilla creme, mandarin, baby rose, almond milk, violet and lavender and more.

Receive a gift valued at From Bacarrat come deep 20BD when you spend red and beautiful clear turtle 100BD or more* doves, the eternal symbol of peace and love. Their lower *Terms and conditions: To qualify for 20BD gift offer, the value of your transaction must total halves synthesise and then 100BD or more in a single transaction. If chosen gift is valued higher than 20BD, difference is to be paid by customer. Limit one offer per customer. Offer not valid on previously divide so they may gaze purchased merchandise or purchase of gift cards. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotion or redeemed for cash. Offer only valid at Tanagra City Centre attentively at each other while Bahrain and expires on August 31, 2016. Voucher must be presented and surrendered to store staff. Tanagra reserves the right to extend, modify or their silhouettes interweave discontinue this offer at any time without notice. harmoniously, creating an

Our gift to you!

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May 2016

appealing symmetry. Designed by Claus Harttung for Baccarat, the grace and beauty of these two birds is evoked through the precision of the craftsmanship, from their slender bills to the detailing on their splayed feathers.

For something lighthearted, choose the Baccarat Papillon collection of lucky butterflies available in a range of colours including red, purple, clear, iridescent and even a Lucky Diamond option.

If you’d like to give a gift that will be useful long after the wedding confetti has blown away, consider a votive. The Baccarat Eye collection, cut crystal in clear, red, grey, green, yellow or amethyst will have candlelight creating reflective sparkles. The spring collection from Bernardaud features a dome of delicately imprinted roses or from Villari opt for beautifully decorated boxes resembling gaily wrapped gifts and miniature cakes.

A visit to Tanagra is like entering an Aladdin’s cave of delicious gifts and great pieces for the home.

Call 17 179-570. www.womanthismonth.com

ChloĂŠ

FASHION | trend

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BLUE JEANS

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This fabric, created for miners’ uniforms, is very popular in the fashion world and once again a hot trend. This season denim flaunts its pure blue colour, sometimes a bit lighter or darker, but mostly in its original tone. Go for a full-on jeans look!

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Betty Barclay

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1. Jacket: Evans; 2. Sunglasses: Ray Ban at sunglasses shop; 3. Skirt: Stradivarius; 4. Handbag: Vincci. 5. Sandals: Matalan; 6. Long-sleeved playsuit: New Look; 7. Shoes: Topshop; 8. Playsuit: Bershka; 9. Top: Debenhams; 10. Shirt: Next.

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www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Charity Breakfast

The Aisha Yateem Family Charity Counselling Centre held a charity breakfast under the patronage of HH Shaikha Thajiba bint Salman Al Khalifa.

Raja & Khulood

Amal, Joelle & Kiki

Sally & Isabella

Amal, Leyla & Fouzia

Paula & Rashida

Najah, Ghanya & Rawia

Car Show

The K Hotel in collaboration with the American Eagles Group (AEG) organised a Car & Bike Show at its premises in Juffair.

The K Hotel receiving an award from AEG

Hussain & Volker

Irina & Anas

Hussain & Mohammed

Darios & Helena

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2016

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showcase CHARLES & KEITH

CONTEMPORARY NOSTALGIA Spring 2016 takes on a bolder approach for the year as slightly mischievous elements are introduced while retaining a minimalistic identity. The idea of contemporary nostalgia is adapted to revive the mood of unforgotten eras that have strongly influenced fashion today.

EASY EXTRAS

Take a trip down memory lane and find nostalgia merged with subculture street aesthetics in accessories from cat-eye glasses to funky-framed Wayfarer lookalikes to chunky bling and belts long-enough to allow the ‘80s-style wrap back.

BAG LADY

Mini backpacks feature small ruffle details, the ever-popular clutch takes on an Asian aesthetic with a knot detail and, for a child-like contrast, relive your golden years with video game-inspired cross-body bags and top handle box bags.

STEPPING OUT

Reworked details are seen on wedge sandals and heels while ‘70s-style daywear is updated with modern relevance using the allure of vintage accent detailing on mule loafers and buckle detail clogs. Go leisure retro with lace-up sneakers and smiley plimsolls.

Call 16 686-206 (City Centre Bahrain), 16 686-226 (Seef Mall), 16 686-230 (Isa Town Mall).

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www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Good France Gala Dinner

HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, hosted a Good France dinner at the French embassy residence. This initiative was launched by Laurent Fabius, former French Minister of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with Alain Ducasse, three-starred Michelin chef. The event’s dinner was prepared by chef Jean-Pierre Renaud from Al Bander hotel and the interior was adorned with luxurious pieces from Tanagra.

Mohammed, Hani & Jabbar

Mohammed Akkaoui, George Middleton, HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre, Patrick Chalhoub, Akram Miknas & HE Dhafer Al Umran

Valerie & Rakia

www.womanthismonth.com

Jean Paul & Lina

Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa & Shaikha Fajer

Sami Kikso, Abdulla Jamsheer & Farooq Almoayyed

Farheen, Nataliia & Ankita

May 2016

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FASHION | fashion forward

SHOP LIKE A FASHIONISTA Every month our favourite brands have amazing new pieces on their racks, meaning infinite options! WTM comes to the rescue with a selection of our favourite pieces that deserve a closer look.

TIMEKEEPER

A TOUCH OF WHIMSY

Coupling the metallic trend with classic design, Esprit’s latest line is available at A La Mode stores around town. Rose gold tones are here to stay and this timeless wristwatch is a great pick to add that extra sparkle to your workwear or casual clobber. The watch also comes in silver and gold tones for those seeking a more traditional option.

Playing with patterns and colours is a field mastered by just a few brands and Etro is definitely one of them. The new collection features dreamy summer dresses, perfect for the hot humid days and nights. Small flower motifs in a patchwork pattern transport the imagination to faraway lands and tales of princesses and dragons.

PRINT IMPRESSIONS FLOWER POWER

Nature’s most beautiful creation is an obvious inspiration for the spring and summer collections. Coach takes the concept to the extreme with 3D flowers all over its latest handbag. This unique item would look great with a white dress and orange heels at a yacht party or poolside bash.

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A patterned top in vibrant colours is one of those versatile pieces to have in your wardrobe that will add an edgy twist to plain black pants. This Manish Arora piece is a simple design with a unique stamp. It is available at Saks Fifth Avenue amongst other creations from this Indian designer who has conquered the fashion world with his colourful mix of ethnic and modern sketches.

www.womanthismonth.com

‘90S REVIVAL For those like me, who lived their golden teenage days in the nineties, seeing some of the decade’s most popular trends coming back to life is a delight. Grunge style, slipons and a sporty relaxed vibe with T-shirts and worn-out jean-jackets are just a few of the options making an appearance for the coming season. Saint Laurent took inspiration from the ‘90s to develop its SS2016 collection.

ELECTRIFYING FOOTWEAR

Jimmy Choo is a synonym of contemporary luxury and after The Sex and the City television series the brand became more popular than ever. This season’s metallic sandals are to die for. Coming in vibrant shades of yellow and blue or even in striking silver, they are the best match for your evening gown or an eye-catching element to add to stylish daywear.

124th Lulu Hypermarket

Lulu Group International opened its 124th outlet at Galleria, Zinj, Bahrain. The new hypermarket was inaugurated by HE Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of Bahrain, in the presence of HE Zayed Al Zayani, Minister of Industry, Commerce & Tourism, Saifee Rupawala, Lulu Group CEO, Yousuf Ali, Lulu Group managing director, diginitaries and other top officials.

Vargees Kurian & Yousuf Ali

The ribbon-cutting ceremony Ebrahim & Shailkh Mohammed

Ronnie, Nanda & Jeff

www.womanthismonth.com

Talal Kanoo & Aziz

Vineeth & Rahul

Shibu

Juzer

May 2016

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FASHION | get the look

GUEST LIST

The bells are ringing in wedding season and we've put together three different looks to inspire your outfit for the big day.

Kendall Jenner

BCBG Max Azria spring 2016

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1. Watch: Esprit at A La Mode; 2. Earrings: Salvatore Ferragamo; 3. Clutch: Saint Laurent Paris at Saks Fifth Avenue;

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4. Dress: Mango; 5. Bracelet: Montblanc; 6. Shoes: Dune London.

(OR GROOM)

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

Amal Clooney

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very important invitee, the mum should wear a glamorous, age-appropriate outfit for her child’s special day. Dresses with a lace top applied on the upper part of the gown are a great way to add sophistication and also avoid a tight cut. Another tip here is to go for an option with at least a little bit of sleeve; it doesn’t have to be long, but some extra cloth covering the shoulders will look better than a sleeveless option. The colour can vary, just avoid black or white. Personal taste and the shades of the season are more important. Pale pink is a contemporary hue that looks great on any skin colour. Pick footwear with chunky heels and a round front for comfort – it will be a long day! www.womanthismonth.com

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1. Bracelet: Celine;

1. Bracelet: Cartier; 5

2. Watch: Versace;

2. Earrings: Chopard;

3. Earrings: Marks & Spencer;

3. Clutch: Paule Ka; 4. Ring: BVLGARI; 5. Sandals: Charlotte Olympia at The Outnet.com

4. Sandals: Santoni.

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6. Dress: BHS.

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COMES THE BRIDESMAID

here are two kinds of brides, the ones that dream of bridesmaids wearing exactly the same dresses and those who prefer that they wear different designs and colours. If you are in the first category, picking an outfit that goes well with most body shapes is something that will be appreciated by your best friends, sisters and cousins. This number from BHS is a good choice; the belt at the waistline helps to create a good silhouette and the pleatted skirt, besides being loose rather than tight to the body, is also a trendy element. The extra draped detail in the top helps to hide any extra curve in the tummy area. The dress is full of good tricks and romance inspired.

www.womanthismonth.com

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5. Fascinator: Debenhams; 6. Dress: CH Carolina Herrera..

THE STYLISH FRIEND

variety of options are available here. Long gowns are only required if it’s an evening event in a fancy venue or requested on the invite. Knee-length dresses are the best pick when you don’t want to go wrong. We all know that black and white should be avoided; however, when together in graphic or flower patterns, they can transform the look into something contemporary and super trendy. Gold accessories go very well with each of the shades, so the metallic detail keeps working in this look. A dash of colour can add extra pizzazz when shopping for fascinators and footwear.

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FASHION | snaps

Style Radar Big wedding to attend? Have a look at our celebrities’ gown choices for great ideas on outfits to help you celebrate the big day in style.

HEIDI KLUM

The German model was beautiful in a look from the spring 2016 Atelier Versace runway at Vanity Fair’s 2016 Oscars Party. The strapless gown has black as its main shade, however the intricate blue beading which flowed into sheer black beaded fabric, is the perfect touch to lift the dark colour. Don’t forget, simple dress, jaw-dropping details!

CHLOE PIRRIE

The Scottish actress wore a navy sleeveless gown with sequin bodice from Hilfiger Collection to attend the 88th annual Academy Awards in support of her film Stutterer.

The dress design is a safe choice which would be a great pick for wedding guests. In this number the eye-catching detail is in the graphic metallic top. If you go for a simple cut, opt for striking fabric or patterns.

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LILY ALDRIDGE

HOLLAND RODEN

AMAL CLOONEY

JANICE MAN

The off-the shoulder top is the ultimate trend this season and when paired with a pencil skirt, the look makes for an edgy special-event option. If you’re after a laidback look for the wedding reception, this is the one! Lily opted for this blouse and skirt from the Brock Collection and a pair of navy suede nudist sandals from Stuart Weitzman to attend the private luncheon to honour Hollywood’s triple threat Elizabeth Banks.

The human rights attorney and George Clooneys’ wife is a woman of style. To accompany her husband for the big première of his film Hail, Cesar! in Los Angeles, she chose a flirty floral Giambattista Valli Haute Couture dress. The short gown is a summer pick for those ladies with long and toned legs, just like Amal.

www.womanthismonth.com

The star of MTV's teen drama Teen Wolf picked a royal blue jumpsuit from Christian Siriano to attend the 2016 Music Television Awards. The one-piece gown is a great alternative to the regular dress and a clever way of rocking a super fashionable look. The bare shoulders are a stylish detail in this number that will catch everyone’s attention.

Gucci has been dominating the red carpet lately. With creative pieces, the Italian fashion house is dressing many celebrities worldwide. This Pre Fall 2016 cerulean long-sleeve pleated gown with silver glitter tulle was the Best Supporting Actress nominee’s pick to show off her beauty at the 35th Hong Kong Film Awards. A dress to be worn only by the most stylish girls in the ball room.

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PEOPLE | interview

Dressing For Battle Hala Kaiksow, the 25-year-old Bahraini designer who was recently recognised at London Fashion Week, talks inspiration and armour for everyday living.

Which school did you attend in Bahrain and have you always been artistically inclined?

I was in Bayan most of my life, and transferred to Bahrain School for the last two years of high school. I've always been interested in making and working with my hands; I would knit, paint, sculpt from a very young age.

How old were you when you first knew you wanted to go into fashion?

When I was around eight years old, I fell in love with the world of fashion through my eternal style icon – my mom. I then learned to knit at the age of 10 from my grandmother. I love working and expressing myself with my hands, and I did art before I came into the world of fashion, so I’ve always been inclined to express myself through creative means.

How long have you been designing?

Since I was very young but in more of a professional context since 2012. I went to Marangoni in Paris to do an intensive fashion course after completing my BFA at the School of Museum of Fine Arts and Tufts University in Boston. I then continued on to get my masters in fashion design at Polimoda in Italy mid last year, which is where I produced my first collection.

What are your favourite materials to use?

I love using materials in their raw state and also contrasting them with man-made materials. So, for instance, my knit coat is made from a chunky merino wool and the thoub under is made of latex with mother-ofpearl embroidery. I also am really interested in constructing my own textiles, so I did a lot of hand weaving. I love the human touch in textiles and garments; I think it's deeply lacking in clothing today because of the immense market of mass production.

Who is the Hala woman, what’s her lifestyle like and how are your clothes designed to affect her?

I think of my clothing as a woman's armor

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Hala receiving her award at London Fashion Week

I think of my clothing as a woman's armor for everyday living, which is why I like experimenting with hard and soft materials

You’re now living outside Bahrain, what are you up to?

I am currently based in London; I'm interning for a company called Toogood. I really wanted to get a good understanding of how a clothing company works before I began my own line.

for everyday living, which is why I like experimenting with hard and soft materials.

They both protect her and give her an identity much like uniforms did in the early 1900s.

You were recently recognised at London Fashion Week, that must have felt like a huge achievement. How will it affect your career?

It was an amazing opportunity and platform to be a part of. I got to interact and connect with people from all over the world. The fact that I won the best designer award was just so humbling – to see people's understanding and reception of your work was so positive and accepting was extremely gratifying.

From where do you find your inspiration?

I draw inspiration from a lot of different cultures, traditions and histories. For this collection I took inspiration from historical workwear, as well as cultural garments, and tried to bring them into the modern context of dressing today. For instance, the jumpsuit in my collection started from the thoub il nashil pattern, which I developed into a jumpsuit and modernised by playing with materiality.

What would you say to other young Bahrainis wanting to pursue this path?

It’s not a glamorous job; it's a lot of hard work and sleepless nights. But it’s worth it when you see the end result and you can see how far your garments can travel on their own, without you even having to speak. I think fashion is a beautiful thing; a mixture of art and sculpture that is moving around the body and showing itself differently every day. g www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview

Family Matters...

As of January 2016, those practicing in the mental health profession are required to be registered with the Ministry of Health. WTM spoke to Lamar Kanafani, the island’s first, and only, licensed marriage and family therapist, about her work and the battle to get the field officially recognised.

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ith Lebanese, Italian and Brazilian heritage and brought up in Saudi Arabia before studying in Switzerland and the USA, Lamar is very definitely a citizen of the world.

But what took her into such a specialised and, potentially, difficult field? She says: “Everyone grows up in a family that has its problems, no family is problem free. My inspiration to become a therapist came from a deep-seeded desire to see people happy... I think, ultimately, that is everyone’s desire.”

After completing her master’s degree from the University of San Diego, California, in 2004, Lamar had already gained extensive training and supervision in the field, and moved to Bahrain to continue her practice. She approached the appropriate ministry in an attempt to solidify her registration, but says recognition of the marriage and family therapy profession as a legitimate practice in the mental health discipline was a long time coming.

“At first I was met with a lot of resistance because it’s a relatively new profession in the Middle East and I think the field was misunderstood, and therefore, displaced as a ‘counselling’ or ‘life-coaching’ service.”

Lamar explains that marriage and family therapy requires competency in the areas of assessment, diagnosis and a specific treatment plan based on diagnoses. In some cases, collaboration with physicians is necessary to ensure a multi-disciplinary approach to the person’s overall health care. “The mind and body are intricately connected, so it makes no sense to take care of one part and exclude the other. Likewise, the person and the family that person is a part of are also connected in complex ways; so to address a person’s issues while disregarding the very network they are intimately involved in also makes no sense,” she says.

“I would like to give credit to Dr Mariam Al-Jalahma, the CEO of Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority for recognising the importance of legitimising the field and requiring practitioners to be licensed, which will mean proper qualifications and proper representation of one’s education and scopeof-practice!”

In fact, until very recently there was no regulation, anyone with minimal or basic certificates could set up as a ‘counsellor’ or www.womanthismonth.com

Lamar Kanafani

Children may need help ‘therapist,’ and call themselves as such. But marriage and family therapy is a very specific field of practice, requiring a higher-level university degree, extensive hours of supervised practice and a responsibility to stay up-to-date through continuing education. Underqualified people have been over-crediting themselves and over-representing their level of education and training; consequently, overpromising service benefits. Lamar says: “While this is highly unethical, deceptive and unprofessional, it is important to know that this, in fact, can do more harm than good to people seeking help at a desperate and vulnerable time in their lives. This is not something to be taken lightly. If there’s anything that doesn’t lie within my own training and scope-of-practice, I refer to or collaborate with the appropriate specialist or service.”

Some of the most common problems Lamar

deals with are depression, anxiety, marital discord, child behavioural concerns, child abuse and infidelity. She also works with teens living with eating disorders and cyber bullying. One of her passions lies in the area of parenting. She holds parenting courses and ongoing support groups throughout the school year.

In terms of marital therapy, she adds: “Couples usually come in to see me very late, when their problems feel like they have spiralled out of control. Which makes fixing the marriage very challenging. So, it is much more effective to come in for help at an earlier stage. And if a marriage seems to be irreconcilable, we work towards ending the relationship with the minimum of damage.

“It has been the understanding that seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist is the only helping avenue available. However, people have alternative options, and family therapy is one of them. Many presenting problems don’t need medication and are best dealt with through therapy and more natural remedies. Working towards change happens when a person gains a clearer understanding of their problem and what’s maintaining it.”

Lamar regularly receives referrals from doctors, teachers and other professionals; and, now that the profession is properly regulated, she will be practising out of Royal Bahrain Hospital.

To contact Lamar, call 36 009-665.

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The 2016 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

The most spectacular event of the year, the 2016 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, was held at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. The awarding ceremony was presented by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, Maher Al Musallam, Gulf Air Acting CEO, HE Hisham Al Jowder, Minister of Youth and Sports Affairs, and Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Motor Federation and Commission Internationale de Karting. The race was attended by top officials, celebrities, media and visitors from around the world.

Nico Rosberg, Mercedes, claims victory!

Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari, 2nd place, Aldo Costa, Mercedes engineering director, Nico Rosberg, Mercedes, winner, & Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes, 3rd place

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

Shaikh Abdullah bin Isa Al Khalifa, HE Hisham Al Jowder & Maher Al Musallam

Bianca, Naimah, Nadine, Lavinia & Michaela

Latifa, Heba, Manal, Sally, Mariam, Sarah, Aya, Mariam & Nada

Beshara & Bashir

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Yasmeen & Lara

Karen, Nicole, Ian & Sophie

HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Nouf, Mirei, Mahmood Kooheji, Nadine & Rima

Yasmeen, Deema & Sophia

Zubi & Kareena

Ashish, Sonali, Sonali & Vikas

Maria, Ahmad, Guy & Toufic

www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | weddings

Tying the Knot

With the arrival of spring, love is in the air.

It’s wedding season and time for our annual feature on all things “I do”.

Fashions come and go but the wedding dress is something you will cherish for a lifetime, check out our selection of the latest gowns, both traditional and with a twist. And, to make sure you look your best on your big day, we have a detailed guide to the best wedding make-up to suit all skin and hair types.

From an insight with a wedding planner to a range of fabulous venues and gifts, if it concerns weddings, it’s in and, if your nuptials are sometime in the future, there’s even news of a rather special wedding event coming up next year.

Once you’ve devoured the special feature, make sure to check out our pick of the month and food sections, where you’ll find even more wedding options.

www.womanthismonth.com

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FEATURE | weddings

For Royal Beginnings Many girls dream of the perfect wedding from childhood. This month Ankita Mamgain meets a young entrepreneur whose job is to make this dream a reality.

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few months back I started reading Imogen Edwards-Jones’ Wedding Babylon. Based on true events, this book follows the life of a wedding planner for a week. Though extremely well written, it would always leave me feeling really exhausted and nervous so I stopped after a few chapters. I was only reading it; what about those who actually live it?

Yes, wedding planning is one of the most nerve-wracking professions one could have, yet Sara Al Salman makes it look like a piece of cake. The extremely calm and soft-spoken 27-year-old reveals that the secret lies in planning ahead.

“If you start planning in advance, it doesn’t demand that sort of toughness or nervous breakdowns,” she says, brushing aside the stereotypical, loud-speaker-carrying, frantic, commander-like image of a wedding planner popular fiction has painted for us.

She studied architectural and interior design at university and says the precision it taught her is a gift in her line of work. “In architecture you have to be very planned.

Every line, every millimetre counts and that kind of strong observation leads to being really well organised.

“Of course I have my assistants that help with the following up but I don’t think you need to be very firm or authoritative.”

A romantic at heart, Sara has loved attending weddings since childhood and was always interested in the world of design.

Combining these two interests, she started crafting fairytale weddings for real life couples under her entrepreneurial venture Royal Weddings by Sara J. “Studying interior architecture gave me creative edge, in conceptualising and executing wedding and event planning. It helped me see and understand the different aspects of a space,” she adds.

The first event she ever planned was her brother’s engagement in 2012, the success of which cemented her love for this career.

While working at an interior design company after finishing university, a number of her projects were wedding events.

Speaking about the current trends and what couples are looking for, she describes it as a bit of a mixed bag. There are many couples who prefer the safe route of going for

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something that she has done in the past and can produce pictures of. However, there are also a good number of Sara Al Salman those who want something bespoke and original.

“I personally prefer to start the whole process of conceptualising from scratch for a couple. I’ve been lucky that most of our clients were willing to take a chance and had complete trust in me and the results were amazing,” Sara notes.

The trends usually revolve around colour and with this year’s Pantone shades already out, she sees a lot of pastels in the weddings to come.

A young professional with vibrant creativity, she strikes a balance between new and traditional. “It’s been a great learning process for me; when I put in place a traditional structure I learn about its significance and can relate it to my roots. And when you are doing something modern it’s a challenge to come up with something new and original every time.”

The budget is one of the trickiest parts of her job, as starry-eyed couples come with celestial dreams but with a limited amount to spend. “My endeavour is to give them the

wedding of their dreams in whatever budget they have,” says Sara. “I am not comfortable with the fact that, in the wedding industry, either you have to have a really huge budget or it just doesn’t happen.”

Interestingly Sara has not had to deal with any ‘bridezillas’ so far, but she does make a quick mention about certain mothers who almost hijack the event and forget that it’s not about them. Her favourite venues in the island are La Fontaine centre of Contemporary Arts for its medieval castle-like environs and the Sofitel Ballroom for its exquisite interiors.

For her, the first meeting with her clients is very important, as it forms the foundation for the relationship they’ll share for the next few months.

“The first meeting is about trying to get a feel of the couple’s personality; I would like to know what they are really comfortable with. Trust is very important. It helps me to make the right choices and suggestions for the couple,” she adds. Sara advises to start at least six months in advance although she has produced events in three months as well.

For her the most gratifying part of this tireless run-up to the big day comes only at the end. “It’s the priceless expression on a bride’s face when she walks into the venue that makes it all worth it,” she adds. www.womanthismonth.com

showcase AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

A DREAM CELEBRATION

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The luxurious premises of this landmark five-star property offer an inimitable experience that can match any exotic locale.

ou don’t have to fly away from Bahrain for your fairytale wedding.

Proudly standing like a regal fortress, Al Areen Palace & Spa offers an ideal spot for an enchanting ceremony within the Kingdom. A dream wedding destination, the property exudes understated charm and elegance throughout its sprawling 131,000sq/m and promises to make one of the most important moments in your life truly memorable.

The hotel features 78 luxuriously appointed villas, which include 22 two-bedroom Royal villas and 56 onebedroom Desert Pool villas, each with its own private courtyard, swimming pool and jet-pool.

The resort offers an extensive range of wedding and event facilities that include: five different indoor banquet venues of 1,228sq/m space including a pre-function area; an extensive open courtyard venue; and two

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restaurants that can be customised to host uniquely themed weddings and events. Assisted by a talented team of event specialists – the staff at Al Areen ensures that every detail of your wedding is planned and executed to perfection.

The various venues offer a truly elegant and sophisticated atmosphere to host amazing weddings which are well complemented by the surroundings, the Arabian architecture of the property, the culinary skills of the chefs and attention to detail by the staff.

Brides may want to check-in a bit early to pamper themselves in the world’s most extensive wellness facility and hydrotherapy garden at Al Areen Spa and at the salon. The resort also houses a health and wellness centre that offers up-to-date sporting and relaxation facilities. Al Areen Palace & Spa provides the perfect, romantic setting for your wedding reception, where you and your guests can celebrate amidst beautiful scenery and magnificent desert sunsets.

Call 17 845-000.

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FEATURE | weddings

Say Yes to The Dress

Of course we know there’s more to getting married than the dress, but choosing just the right gown for your big day is a big part of the fun. We’ve rounded up some of the latest offerings from the biggest names in the business.

Enzoani

The 2016 collection embodies the timeless elegance that Enzoani is internationally renowned for. With the addition of an all-new lace design and a show-stopping train for even more of that oh-so gorgeous and dramatic 'wow' factor, this gown will bring gasps as you walk down the aisle.

Caroline Herrera This year’s bridal collection is inspired by the beauty, sensuality and delicacy of the fragrant white jasmine flower.

Hand-stitched embroidery on silk faille brings the precious flower to life, giving the illusion of the cascading blossoms. This Jordana dress gives a stylish and unique interpretation of the mermaid tail with layers and pleats offering a fairytale quality.

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H&M Conscious

One for the bride with a conscience, this gown from H&M is not strictly intended to be bridal but we think it’s beautiful enough to play with the big girls and it also lives up to the brand’s promise of offering fashion choices that are good for people, the planet and your wallet.

Marchesa

Ruched, ruffled, off-theshoulder and sporting a train, this gown from Marchesa ticks all the wedding boxes while the tightness of the bodice and nipped in waist give a modern look to a classic style that teems with fabric petals which translate into the ultimate in ethereal romance.

www.womanthismonth.com

Spot the Difference If you decide to buck tradition and go for something other than white, these options from Saks Fifth Avenue could be what you’re looking for.

Monique Lhuillier

Arguably the queen of wedding-day couture, Lhuillier’s newest offering is inspired by the classic story of Alice in Wonderland. But though the dresses themselves may appear sugar-sweet, the designer herself says there is a darker side which aims to bring out the bride’s naughty side. This creation will have you looking like a princess, add the naughty with a blue garter or fancy undies.

Ingie Paris goes young and fresh with floor-length floral.

The strapless bodice and interesting bow detail take this out of bridesmaid territory while butterflies and sunbursts keep the pattern bang on trend.

This top and skirt combo from Notte by Marchesa reeks of grown-up glamour while the black and gold colourway adds a slightly gothic feel tinged with traditional Eastern European romance.

Oscar De La Renta

According to Oscar De La Renta’s newly appointed designer, Peter Copping, it’s the bride’s prerogative to be the centre of attention, and we fully agree. While the 2016 collection has its share of full-skirted, off-the shoulder confections, we’ve fallen in love with this much simpler offering with its classic column shape and gorgeous lace overlay.

Terani Couture’s gold show-stopper is perhaps more red carpet than register office but, if you’re determined to break with tradition, this will ensure all eyes stay on you!

All dresses, except H&M Conscious, are available at Esposa Dubai (www. esposagroup.com). www.womanthismonth.com

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Store Opening

Al Rashid Group opened two new stores, Shoexpress and Lifestyle, at Galleria Mall, Zinj.

Ribbon-cutting at Shoexpress

Ribbon-cutting at Lifestyle

Kiran, Athique, Nirmal, Ajay & Ali

Kunal, Vikas & Russel

Cristine & Meyenne

Joe, Kabi, Vijay & Darshan

Ashis, Kabi & Sanjeewa

Nishta and guests

Chez Sushi Opening

EatCorp Group officially opened its first Chez Sushi restaurant at Al Nakheel Centre, Saar. The event was held in the presence of Faisal Kanoo, EatCorp owner, Hiba Kosta, Chez Sushi co-founder, Officials and owners of the Japanese restaurant management, staff and guests.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

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Guests at the opening

www.womanthismonth.com

showcase Tanagra

gIFTS gaLOrE If you’re heading to a wedding this summer and in need of a high-end gift, this is one store where you will find something to suit every taste. Tanagra at City Centre Bahrain, offers an inspiring, refined and edited array of lifestyle gifts from designers around the world. From elaborate dinner collections by Christofle and Rosenthal Versace, to luxury crystal and glassware by Baccarat and gorgeous ornamental pieces by Lalique, these are gifts you won’t want to part with. And if you’re the bride-to-be, you’ll be happy to know, Tanagra offers a one-of-a kind gift registry which can be customised to any occasion and culture. Your guests will have peace of mind knowing their gift to you is exactly what you dreamed of and there will never be two of the same piece.

Eye Vase

By Baccarat Bevelled edges in perpetual motion, the Eye vase is a spiral of light.

Jardin D’Eden Collection

By Christofle Bring the outdoors in with this baroque, silver-plated tableware collection named after the most famous garden in history.

amber & Mauve Sophie Figurine

By Daum This exquisite and extremely unique crystal figurine embodies the very definition of feminine beauty

Venise Tea or Coffee Collection

By Bernardaud Traditional Arabesque coffee or tea set with ornate designs rendered in gleaming 24K gold lend lavish detail to fine porcelain.

Cocktail Party in a Box

By Baccarat A set of eight different glasses giving any host the opportunity to throw a party covering every cocktail, packed in a swanky red box.

Together Forever

By Lladro Romantic and sweet, this figurine elegantly captures the new couple’s special moment in fine porcelain, a gift they will always treasure.

Mood

By Christofle 24 pieces of flatware set in a silver plated egg. A new and bold manner of luxury living in everyday life. With its easy usage and refined design, Mood is essential at the centre of the table for dinners or casual and convivial brunches.

Languedoc Vase

By Lalique Named after the raw and beautiful Languedoc region of France.

This land has long inspired many artists, including Rene Lalique who designed this vase with accentuated relief and generous proportions in 1929.

Medusa gala Dinnerware By rosenthal Versace The glorious gold-coloured head of Medusa is an eye-catcher, and a true Versace emblem.

Call 17 179-570 www.womanthismonth.com

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showcase ART ROTANA

AN EXQUISITE AFFAIR

Creativity, finesse and Arabian hospitality come together for your special day at this impressive five-star property.

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ith its mesmerising architecture and creative approach to the art of luxury living, ART Rotana presents itself as a fivestar wedding destination complemented by a full array of services for the most memorable celebration. Rising high amidst a group of manmade islands with panoramic views of the Gulf’s turquoise waters, ART Rotana echoes vibrancy and sophistication and is an ideal location for weddings and special events.

The stunningly designed 1128sq/m Al Thuraya Ballroom, adorned with Arabesque decorative accents, beautiful lighting fixtures and a stateof-the-art entertainment system, features a majestic hall capable of accommodating 900 people. It also has a dedicated pre-function area which, together with the plush hall, offers a mesmerizing, romantic location for the perfect wedding festivity.

ART Rotana celebrates your special events with incredible finesse; the contemporary arabesque décor merged expertly with fusion cuisine and seamless service, catering to both an intimate reception and large-scale occasions.

From personalised menus to suit all tastes, to beautiful table arrangements with lavish dressings, professional photography and magnificent floral creations, the hotel’s experienced wedding specialists can craft

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bespoke, unique packages, tailormade to every couple’s desire.

ART Rotana pays tribute to the splendour of Arabian art and stays true to the warmth and hospitality of the Bahraini culture. The hotel combines an aweinspiring ambience with outstanding facilities to appeal to the needs of the most demanding clients looking for the ultimate wedding experience.

Hospitality landmark Conveniently located 10 minutes drive from Bahrain International Airport and only 15 minutes from the city centre, ART Rotana caters to the growing needs of the global traveller and complements the vibrancy and sophistication of Bahrain’s tourism and hospitality sector.

With 311 fully-equipped rooms and suites that provide all the conveniences reflective of a fivestar property, ART Rotana offers families and

corporate clients an ideal destination for leisure and business alike.

Its futuristic façade houses a contemporary environment that carries the ethos of Middle Eastern hospitality at its very core. Eight state-of-the art meeting rooms and conference facilities, a majestic ballroom, six exciting food and beverage outlets, a fully-equipped beach club with modern fitness and wellness services and a children’s waterpark offering plenty of organised activities and attractions for the kids, place this hotel at the forefront of Bahrain’s hospitality offerings.

Call 16 000-111. www.womanthismonth.com

showcase LE MÉRIDIEN

AN URBAN OASIS

In the commercial area that is Seef, this hotel is a veritable getaway that embraces guests with its cool vibe and warm hospitality.

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he prestigious hotel brand, Le Méridien has been creating waves since its revival on the island right next to Bahrain’s ever popular City Centre. The timeless design of this contemporary hotel pays homage to its Parisian heritage, which is reflected across its 260 rooms and suites. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport. Dubai is only an hour away by plane and Dammam is a short drive along the King Fahad causeway.

Guests can spend hours within the precincts of the hotel and not know it; thanks to the fantastic dining and recreational facilities available. While children enjoy the safe interiors of the kids club, adults can relax by the hotel’s serene outdoor pool, or loosen up at the energising fitness centre. To stimulate mind, body and soul, and experience Bahrain's largest Turkish Hammam bath, guests can hop over to the luxury spa located in Le Méridien’s adjacent sister hotel, The Westin. For some retail therapy, the hotel also conveniently connects to the mall's ground floor.

Whether you are headed to a relaxed evening out with friends or planning an eventful weekend ahead, Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre offers an unparalleled dining experience. The hotel offers fine cuisine served in

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exceptional surroundings. All dining outlets are manned by gourmet chefs who can whip up international fare to suit every taste.

In-house guests can avail of 24-hour room service as well.

Longitude 50 is an inviting space located at the Hub, Le Meridien’s reinterpretation of a hotel lobby, offering travellers and locals a relaxed atmosphere to socialise and enjoy freshly brewed coffee and signature éclairs, as well as a selection of light bites and pastries.

Fuel your morning with Le Méridien's signature breakfast at Baharat, the restaurant that has won rave reviews since its opening.

Featuring a selection of traditional café

classics like smoked salmon on pumpernickel bread, to treats that take their flavours from local cuisine, like date brioche and shakshouka, Baharat has it all.

This restaurant is also where islanders can Indulge in special themed dinners - where flavour, fusion, fresh meats and fish come together to excite the senses with an open kitchen concept.

Come Friday, Baharat hosts its signature award winning brunch that’s frequented by the who’s who in Bahrain. Weekend revellers can engage their senses in every way; with the flavours, scents and sight of the food, and the sound of live music from a Colombian duo.

There is no better place to celebrate Friday night than at Bizarre Lounge, the hotel’s lounge and bar that transforms into a chic, upbeat venue at night. Join the after brunch party, and be treated to a complimentary drink on entry and discounted beverages until 7pm on showing your brunch bill. Shake a leg at Bizarre’s Friday salsa nights from 8pm till late, with an instructor available to show you professional moves every other week.

Beverage connoisseurs can try Le Méridien’s Sparkling Programme here, featuring classic cocktails with local twists, daily from 5-8 pm.

Call: 17 171-000. www.womanthismonth.com

showcase HILAL CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS

EVERYTHING WEDDINGS UNDER ONE ROOF My Wedding Party, the showcase that promises to put Bahrain on the wedding events destination map of the GCC, will take place from March 15-18, 2017.

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his unique event, which aims to be the Northern Gulf’s largest independent bridal shopping festival, will take place at Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre and will provide visitors, both male and female, with a one-stop approach to organising their dream wedding party.

Exhibitors will include women’s bridal fashion, men’s fashion, jewellery, abayas, hair and make-up as well showcases from wedding planners, venues, resorts, hotels, caterers, wedding bakers, honeymoon services, entertainers, photographers/videographers and florists.

The event will also stage fashion shows by leading designers, live hair and make-up tutorials by some of the GCC’s most celebrated beauty bloggers, henna designing and calligraphy workshops with more add-ons to be announced.

Special awards will also be launched to recognise GCC talent for Designer of the Year for bridal couture, jewellery awards, Wedding Planner of the Year, Best Stylist for hair and make-up, Wedding Photographer of the Year and Best Wedding Venue for 2017.

“My Wedding Party will provide visitors an unbiased setting to evaluate the products and

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services available for their respective wedding requirements,” says Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of organiser Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions.

“The online portal to My Wedding Party is being designed to deliver visitors a tool to act as your 'Wedding Planner'. The interactive website provides users with an insight into all things wedding-related, by giving them an understanding into different wedding themes, traditions, global venues, decoration tips, cakes, wedding fashion from around the world, jewellery and honeymoon destinations. The website also maintains a blog with wedding inspirations to give that added unique twist to any wedding.”

“The My Wedding Party website will also provide a feature called Plan My Wedding where the couples (and families) will be able to plan and budget their entire wedding celebration and allocate resources accordingly,” says My Wedding Party project manager, Nisreen Masri. “myweddingparty.net gives the user a knowledgeable overview into the wedding

planning process as well as giving a sneak peek of the My Wedding `Party expo, by promoting the different exhibitors and activities that will take place during the show” adds Nisreen.

My Wedding Party is already capturing popular interest through its ever-growing social media presence. “We are also delighted by the media partnerships that the event is attracting in the early stage not just in Bahrain and the GCC but internationally” concludes exhibition director Ahmed Suleiman.

Media Partners for My Wedding Party will include Bahrain This Month, Woman This Month, Gulf Weekly, Gulf Daily News, Akbar Al Khaleej and Biz Bahrain. www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | weddings

Bridal Looks Get ready for the big day by planning your makeup makeover following our special tips. Redhead, blond or brunette? Find the best way to enhance your natural beauty.

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ost brides opt for simple and neutral make-up for their special day; however, getting the desired effect may be a challenge. First of all, go for a trial in advance so the make-up artist can test and try different options and also check if a skin treatment is required. It’s important

to remember the goal is to bring out your best features and not how well the make-up is applied.

Have make-up applied on your décollet if your dress shows this area. Don’t forget to use waterproof products. Also note that some foundations and loose powders may create a

strange effect in pictures, since they reflect light differently. If possible, get your makeup photographed with a flash before to see what it will look like.

Now you’re aware of the little details, check out Woman This Month’s top tips for women of various hair colours and skin types.

G R EEN E YES A N D R ED H A IR EYES: play with purples; this hue is on the opposite side of the colour wheel from green, making it stand out. To widen the look, apply shades of deep plum eyeshadow towards the outer edges and a lighter tone towards the inner eye. If your eyelids are a little droopy, do the opposite. You can also go for dark green, bronze, gold and copper. For eyeliner, choose brown or charcoal grey as they are softer and less harsh; never pick bright silver.

SKIN: use a yellow-based or peach foundation and stay away from red or pink bases, they will make your complexion look too reddish and clash with your hair.

Don’t over apply to let your unique freckles show through.

LIPS: to finish the look, go for nude and beige lip glosses. The golden rule is to avoid pink and red lipsticks. However, many rules are there to be broken and this might be one of them, so take the risk and experiment. Cherry pink and bright plum are some of the best options in matte or lip stain formulas.

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www.womanthismonth.com

B LU E E YES A N D B LON D H A I R EYES: It is all about contrast here. Opt for warm colours such as bronze and orange undertones like pearl, gold, peach, rose gold and almond. If you have blue eyes and pale skin, try combinations based on the pink palette, like milk chocolate, taupe, mauve or blush. Black or charcoal grey liner or mascara enhance the lash line that is usually unseen. Avoid frosty light and mid-tone blues; they can look dated and ageing. Any shadow that matches your eye shade exactly will make it look dull by comparison.

SKIN: pick light beige or ivory (depending on skin colour), avoiding warm tones. If your skin is golden, apply a thin layer of shiny bronzer. For cheeks, dust on a peach, coral or copper shade to make your blue eyes appear bluer.

LIPS: lipsticks make a considerable difference when you have light eyes. Adding a pop of colour can balance your features and brighten the eye colour even more. You can go classic with a bright red, flirty with a hot pink or outstanding with a berry shade.

B ROW N E YES A N D DA R K H A IR EYES: since brown doesn’t have an opposite or complementary shade on the colour wheel, most eye make-ups work for these women – the determining factor is the depth of the eye colour. For deep browns, opt for dark shades such as forest green, charcoal grey or metallics – gold and bronze. Medium browns can try green, violet or bronze eye shadows; however, most tones work really well here. Hazelnut eyes are beautifully painted in pearly shades paired with violet, bronze or brown.

SKIN: the complexion colour can vary to all shades here, so pick the hue that provides best coverage and that blends well with your skin tone. On the cheeks, try warm pinks, rosy browns and bronzes. Brush the bronzer up towards the eyes and add a hint of pink blush on the apples of the cheeks for brightness.

LIPS: most of the time, pale pink lipsticks don’t flatter brunettes; best to play with richer colours such as brownish tones or spicy red. If you want lighter shades, opt for coral or peach.

REMEMBER: brunettes with blond highlights can wear make-up with pink undertones better than girls with red highlights. If you have medium brown hair colour and a medium to dark complexion, select honey shades and metallics. But if, instead, you have fair skin, never pick dark lipsticks or silver eye shadows.

For blue eyes and brown hair or any other different combination from the above, mix and match the tips from the two categories for the best results.

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May 2016

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BEAUTY | news

CALVIN KLEIN CK ONE SUMMER. The fragrance is from the fresh citrus fruity family and invokes a wet and refreshing adventure in the jungle. Lime mojito, green apple and green ginger are the top notes followed by guava, tiare Tahiti and juniper.

Its dry-down is composed of coconut milk, cedarwood and tree moss. The fragrance is for both men and women.

Available at all leading retailers.

CLARINS SUPER RESTORATIVE HAND CREAM. Specially developed to fight age spots and replenish fine and highly exposed skin. In addition to its ingredients to promote youngerlooking hands, the product also contains plant extracts with benefits to enhance skin texture and help achieve more beautiful nails.

Available at all leading retailers.

L’ORÉAL PARIS LA VIE EN ROSE COLLECTION. The all-new range of feminine pinks brings six lipsticks with velvet matte colours, custommade to suit every woman.

The shades are named after the following celebrities: Julianne Moore, Blake Lively, Naomi Watts, Eva Longoria, Jennifer Lopez and Natasha Poly. Each lipstick has a matching nail polish.

Available at all leading retailers.

Beauty

Essentials

It is that time of the year again when you should be more careful with sun exposure and skin hydration. Our monthly selection includes sun-friendly products and summer colours and fragrances.

TOO FACED CANDLELIGHT GLOW. This highlighting powder duo brings the brand’s photolite technology, which illuminates the complexion by diffusing and refracting light making the skin gleam in any kind of luminosity. The product is available in two shades: Rosy Glow and the new Warm Glow. Available at Sephora.

AVÉNE MINERAL CREAM. The base formula for this sunscreen is a triple combination. A minimum of photoprotective agents for maximum tolerance plus long-lasting anti-oxidant protection and an anti-irritant ingredient, the Avéne thermal spring water. It is also very water resistant with effective sun protection in a creamy texture. Available at all leading retailers.

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SEPHORA CUSHION FOUNDATION. With one motion, the special cushion spreads the right amount of product over the skin for a customised natural look. The liquid-foundation formula comes in a compact format to be applied by patting the microairy puff and making the product merge with the skin for a flawless effect. Available at Sephora.

LANCASTER IN SHOWER SELF TAN LOTION. Have you ever thought you could tan while showering?

Lancaster’s new product brings a new method for selftanning, after cleansing the skin, the product should be applied in circular motions and rinsed after one minute.

The lotion has the brand's ‘Tan Colour Adapt Technology’ and day after day a gradual golden tan is the result.

Available at all leading retailers.

www.womanthismonth.com

NINA RICCI L’EXTASE CARESSE DE ROSES. This musky floral oriental scent evokes the ultimate femininity with a touch of lust. Two main accords that compose the fragrance are Bulgarian rose essence and rose absolute Turkish. Peony and violet notes bring freshness to this eau de parfum.

Available at all leading retailers.

May 2016

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showcase JOZ SALON & SPA

BENEFITS OF AROMATHERAPY Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical well-being. Discover the benefits of this widely-used application.

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romatherapy is becoming increasingly popular for its beneficial effects on your overall wellbeing.

Essential oils, the pure essence of a plant, have been found to provide both psychological and physical benefits when used correctly and safely. The profile of aromatherapy details more than 90 essential oils. Absolutes (highly aromatic liquids extracted from plants), CO2s (oils extracted by the carbon dioxide method) and hydrosols (aromatic water that remains after producing an essential oil via steam or water distillation) are also commonly utilised.

Although all these components are distilled by different methods, the term essential oil is sometimes used as a blanket term to include all natural, aromatic, volatile and plant oils.

In addition to essential oils, aromatherapy encourages the use of other complementary natural ingredients including cold pressed vegetable oils, jojoba (a liquid wax), hydrosols, herbs, milk powders, sea salts, sugars (an exfoliant), clays and muds.

Products that include synthetic ingredients are frowned upon in holistic aromatherapy. It is important to note that perfume oils, also known as fragrance oils (and usually listed as ‘fragrance’ on an ingredient label), are not the same as essential oils. Fragrance oils and perfume oils contain synthetic chemicals and do not provide the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.

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THE BENEFIT OF AN AROMA: INHALING ESSENTIAL OILS Essential oils that are inhaled into the lungs offer both psychological and physical benefits.

Not only does the aroma of the natural essential oil stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction, but, when inhaled into the lungs, the naturally occurring chemicals can supply therapeutic benefit. Diffusing eucalyptus essential oil to help ease congestion is a prominent example.

If not done correctly and safely, however, the use of essential oils can have severe consequences.

THE BENEFIT OF PHYSICAL APPLICATION

Essential oils that are applied to the skin can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The constituents of essential oils can aid in health, beauty and hygiene conditions. Since essential oils are so powerful and concentrated, they should never be applied to the skin in their undiluted form. To apply essential oils to the skin, they are typically diluted into a carrier such as a cold pressed vegetable oil, also known as carrier oil, including sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil and grape seed oil.

ESSENTIAL OIL BLENDS

Essential oils can be blended together to create appealing and complex aromas. They can also

be blended for a specific therapeutic application. The ones that are carefully blended with a specific therapeutic purpose in mind may be referred to as an essential oil synergy. A synergistic essential oil blend is considered to be greater in total action than each oil working independently.

AROMATHERAPY PRODUCTS

Not all ready-made products labelled with the word aromatherapy are pure and natural.

Products that contain artificial ingredients do not provide true aromatherapy benefits. At worst, they provide no benefit or are harmful.

At best, they provide only a fraction of the benefit that natural products supply.

Joz Salon & Spa uses true aromatherapy products by looking at the ingredient label to ensure that the product does not contain fragrance oils or chemical components.

“By asking our customers more about the therapy and listening to how they respond, we have a better idea about the quality,” says a salon spokesperson.

Call 17 369-133, 17 756-449 or 16 031-120 for more information. www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

F1 Welcome Party The Domain Hotel and Spa held a VIP Bahrain F1 welcome party at Domain PrivĂŠ.

Shaikh Khalid bin Hamood Al Khalifa & Frank

Andrews & Tatiana

Andre, Sean, Mariana & Yazan

Peter, Maria & Salman

William & Lalaine

Maria & Mohammed

Chef Rukmal & Mohammed

Arpita, Vish, Dr Ashish & India

Ahmed & Emad

Frank & Sudair

Nicole & India

The Domain Hotel and Spa held a breakfast buffet created by master chef Rukmal at Le Sauvage.

Breakfast Buffet

Tanvi, Marise, Frank, Pearlyn & Ankita

Chef Nishantha, chef Rukmal & chef Rajakaruna

Bambi, Frank & Tulin

Ladies’ Luncheon Rashida Tadayon held a social luncheon at her residence.

Rashida and guests

Bottom left to right: Paula, Faye, Anne, Rashida, Dessa, Zahra Middle left to right: Alima, Mariam, Laila, Nor Hayati, Hani, Ratnawati Top left to right: Jameela, Sameera, Lynne & Sebahat

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Ratnawati & Hani

Alima & Sameera

May 2016

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showcase YARA BEAUTY LOUNGE

A COOL WAY TO KEEP YOUNG Y

If you are looking for a proven way to slow down your body’s ageing process, this beauty lounge offers you just the panacea.

ara Beauty Lounge (YBL) situated in Zawia 1, Amwaj Islands, is the place for ultimate beauty rejuvenation. Step inside this sanctuary to relax in five-star surroundings, whilst indulging in a range of pampering services.

In Bahrain, Yara Beauty Lounge has pioneered the introduction of CryoTherapy – the latest advancement from the beauty industry that has gained notable popularity in the West. The system is based on Japanese doctor Toshimo Yamaguchi’s discovery back in 1978; that of decreasing the temperature of a patient's skin to reduce pain.

Cryotherapy is the use of extremely low temperatures, usually below -110°C. Nitrogen air pulsating over the body treats tissue damage, decreases inflammation, increases cell rejuvenation and improves skin tone, whilst also reducing signs

of aging. You can come out of a brief three-minute CryoTherapy session with noticeably tighter pores, weight loss and with no sign of any jet lag if you went in suffering from it. Just one session helps burn a minimum of 800 calories!

At YBL, you can opt for either the CryoTherapy Chamber or the CryoTherapy facial, or both. These treatments are competitively priced at BD30 each. To reap the maximum benefits, go for both treatments, and save BD10 with the CryoTherapy Combo.

For an additional sum of BD10, customers can treat themselves to a deep cleansing experience prior to the CryoTherapy facial.

What’s more, after five sessions, the sixth one is free!

Call 16010999 for an appointment or a consultation with a CryoTechnician.

Behbehani Brothers launched the all-new Audi A4 at its showroom in Sitra.

Audi Launch

Management and staff at the launch

Store Reopening

Al Rashid Group reopened its Sarah store at City Centre Bahrain.

Kunal & Farheen

Management at staff at the reopening ceremony

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Lalheel & Nadia

www.womanthismonth.com

showcase MIDDLE EAST MEDICAL CENTER (MEM)

AYURVEDA FOR MODERN TIMES T

Since ancient times, Ayurvedic medicine and practices have been known for promoting good health.

WTM’s Apple Sharma experienced a traditional treatment first-hand.

he day-to-day demands of our hectic lives can be draining in more ways than one. Having put the last issue to bed, I was ready for a well-deserved massage. So it was a welcome surprise when I was asked to test out a traditional treatment at the Middle East Medical Center (MEM), home to the Santhigiri Ayurvedic Center. Featuring Ayurvedic medical systems, methodologies and technology, the centre offers specialised treatments and traditional therapies from Kerala, India.

Having tried a traditional drip head massage many moons ago, I was excited at the prospect of a rejuvenation massage. I was greeted by a friendly receptionist, Akhila, who would also perform the treatment, and was shown to the traditional room with a wooden massage table in the centre and tranquil background music. Once appropriately dressed (or rather undressed), she started with a quick head

massage and then lay me down for the fullbody treatment. Not particularly fond of oil massages, I was a bit apprehensive at first, but Akhila assured me that the herbal oil she was using was light and could be easily washed off. Every inch of my body, from head to toe, was slathered in the fragrant hot herbal oil as

she began rigorous massaging with her expert hands. I could feel the tension easing as she fluttered her fingers on every limb to the rhythm of the chirping birds. She then cleansed my face with rose water, applied honey and gently massaged my face. The treatment ended with 10 minutes in the steam room, followed by a cleansing shower. I left feeling rejuvenated, energised and my skin felt as soft as a baby’s bottom. It was a new and invigorating experience to say the least, definitely one to try if you like oil massages.

MEM has two branches, located in Hidd and Salmabad.

Call 17 464-848 (Hidd) or 17 216-056 (Salmabad).

Middle East Medical Center features the latest Ayurvedic medical systems, methodologies, and technology to facilitate the best experience and environment for our esteemed guests through its Ayurvedic services.

Specialized Treatments Excellent specialized Ayurveda & Siddha treatments are available at MEM for the following diseases : Kizhi

Nasyam

Relaxation Massage

Sirodhara

• • • • •

Rheumatism Arthritis Migraine Sports injuries Spondylosis

• • • •

Sinusitis.

Frozen shoulder Low back ache Hypertension

Kerala Traditional Therapies • • • • •

Rejuvenation Massages Stress Management Therapy Postnatal Health Care Eye Care Ladies Special Beauty Therapies and many more.

E-mail : Info@membh.com, www.membh.com

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2016

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FEATURE | health & fitness

Say Eye We load them with make-up, use them to stare incessantly at screens and relish this wonderful world through them. So, why do we not give our eyes the same tender loving care as the rest of our bodies, ponders Behnaz Sanjana.

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e often read and hear about the importance of regular health check-ups as a way to prevent and control illnesses. But the majority of people, both men and women, tend to ignore their eyes and their eyesight, taking this delicate and intricate body part completely for granted.

It would hardly be an understatement to say that we rely on our eyes to savour almost all of life’s experiences. It is thus important to pay attention to our peepers and occasionally give them some much-deserved attention.

Pushpita Sengupta Patel is a professionally qualified optometrist and contact lens specialist who heads the retail operations at Optica, Bahrain’s well known eyewear boutique. She strongly recommends that all of us get an eye exam at least once a year. She says: “This is very essential, since it allows us to monitor any changes in refractive status or vision changes in the eye; as well as detecting early signs of any other ocular diseases.”

For those who don’t remember the last time they visited an optometrist, a typical routine eye exam with an eye care professional starts with lifestyle questioning, analysing visual demands in different everyday situations, and also takes in distance and near sight

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correction and a colour vision test. An experienced optometrist will be able to make lifestyle-based recommendations for optimal vision correction and train customers on the correct and safe use of, and adaptation to, eyeglasses and contact lenses.

So, I was curious to know the most common issues people face with their eyesight.

Pushpita says: “Apart from the typical refractive errors that we come across every day, we frequently encounter an increased number of individuals suffering from www.womanthismonth.com

If you experience blurred or double vision, general eye fatigue, headaches or increased light sensitivity, it is important to immediately consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) and Digital Eye Strain (DES) nowadays. The demands of the digital world today have a lot of adverse effects on the human eye. Increased strain on eyes, caused by continuous usage of digital gadgets, is leading to complications such as CVS and DES, where people experience tired, watery or dry eyes, blurred or double vision, headache, sore neck, shoulders or back, increased sensitivity to light, difficulty in concentrating, a feeling that you cannot keep your eyes open, etc. At Optica, we do special CVS/DES counselling and recommend specialised lenses to treat the same.”

There are times when we experience discomfort in the eye, but we tend to ignore the niggle, hoping it’ll disappear on its own. “If you experience blurred or double vision, general eye fatigue, headaches or increased light sensitivity, it is important to immediately consult an optometrist or

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ophthalmologist,” says Pushpita.

On the subject of optimal eye health, Pushpita has some simple advice. “Good eye health starts with healthy eating. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E are essential in our everyday diet. Smoking affects eye health and, hence, quitting has an overall health benefit, not just on the eyes. Besides the essential regular eye check-ups, at least once every year, it is also important to use the right eye shades to protect eyes from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays,” she says. Doctors cannot stress the importance of shielding

one’s eyes from the sun enough, as overexposure to UV rays can cause serious eye problems like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. They recommend that sunglasses or tinted lenses carry the UV400 mark. Pushpita also says those who work in a potentially hazardous environment must protect their eyes by wearing safety eyeglasses.

If you have already been diagnosed with less than optimal vision, wearing the right refractive correction glasses, as per the optometrist’s recommendation, is mandatory.

Pushpita suggests taking frequent short breaks from digital devices, as well as doing some eye exercises as advised by your eye-care specialist.

She also emphasises the need for protection from ultraviolet rays for children. “Kids spend much more time outdoors than most adults do; sunglasses that block 100 per cent of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays are extra important for children.

“In fact, because children spend significantly more time outdoors than most adults, some experts say that up to 30-50 per cent of a person's lifetime exposure to UV radiation can occur by the age 18,” she reveals.

She continues: “Children’s eyes are more susceptible to UV and High Energy Visible (HEV) radiation than adult eyes, because the lens inside a child's eye is less capable of filtering these high-energy rays and thus more vulnerable. This is especially true for young children, so it's wise for kids to start wearing protective sunglasses outdoors as early in life as possible.” g May 2016

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showcase FITNESS FIRST

FROM FRUMPY TO FIT

With sheer dedication and the right gym to guide her, Celeste White has emerged victorious in her quest for a healthy body. WTM narrates her successful weight loss story.

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eleste White battled the bulge for most of her adult life, especially after the birth of her son. She tried every pill, gimmick and quick fix to lose weight, but as soon as she lost a few kilos, she would eventually pack on many more.

Fearing she was on the fast track to obesity, Celeste joined a health conscious internet group called SleekGeek SA that endorses the motto ‘eat clean and train dirty’. One of the challenges SleekGeek posed its participants led Celeste to join Fitness First. “Most apartment gyms provide very limited equipment and no guidance. I needed a comprehensive gym that would push me to get fit,” she says. Fitness First provided her with everything from modern equipment to knowledgeable professionals and an exciting array of exercise classes.

In February 2016, she weighed 82.4kg and her body-fat measurement was 34.2 per cent.

Fitness First personal trainer Ahmed Mujtaba Mirza drew up a tailor-made diet plan and a personalised training programme for her.

Celeste started training for two sessions a day. The morning session was a cardio workout; two rounds each of 20 minutes on the

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treadmill. “Initially, I managed only two-minute runs with a minute’s brisk walk between.

This was followed by a 20-minute low-intensity cycling session.

Now I can run for 20 minutes straight and cycle at a fast pace,” she says proudly.

In the evening she and Ahmed did High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) combined with strength training. From becoming breathless with just short bursts of exercise, she has come a long way.

Celeste believed she would never be able to do proper squats or lunges due to an old injury. But she soon realised the problem lay with her weight, more than anything else. With practice and consistency, she now does squats and lunges with ease.

She also occasionally enjoys the group classes, especially T.U.F.F and Bodypump.

Celeste’s diet plan changes according to the changes in her body. She recalls that her first 10-day programme was tough and made her nauseous. With every milestone achieved, Ahmed tweaks her diet, setting a new goal for her. She has been advised to take a protein shake to help repair muscles and increase her protein intake, as well as supplement with vitamin D and calcium to maintain optimal bone health.

“The MyFitnessPal app helps me keep tabs on my calorie intake, and achieve my fitness goals,” she adds.

She recommends MYZONE to track burnt calories, monitor heart rate and level

of performance. “This wonder equipment is available only at Fitness First and is an amazing training companion,” she says.

Celeste has learnt that there is no quick fix to being overweight.

“It is a lifestyle adjustment, with a balance of food and exercise.

As of April 2016, my weight has decreased to 75.6kg and my bodyfat percentage is 23.6 per cent. A big thank you to Fitness First and my personal trainer Ahmed for pushing me to be the best I can be,” she says.

Call: 17 467-044.

www.womanthismonth.com

showcase ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

LIVING WITH DIABETES

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Discovering you have diabetes can come as a huge shock. However, it’s possible to turn the condition to your advantage.

earning that diabetes is a life-long disease with no cure which requires continuous support can be a shocking realisation. “When you’re diagnosed with diabetes, your doctor and healthcare providers will ask you to make certain lifestyle changes,” says Dr Wiam Hussein, Royal Bahrain Hospital’s senior consultant – endocrinology and diabetes.

“Lose weight and stay in-shape. This is of prime importance as it will control your diabetes along with blood pressure and cholesterol, and you will gain a long list of improvements by losing only seven per cent of your weight or more.

“Exercise is of vital importance in controlling your diabetes and preventing progression and complications. You’ll look and feel great; prevent heart disease; have strong bones and muscles; it will make you lose the extra weight and it is fun.”

Eating healthily is also important. With all the

Dr Wiam Hussein

conveniences and indulgence of fast food and the high caloric intake, no-one thinks of all the diseases and cancers that are associated with poor eating habits.

Dental, eye and foot care also take priority.

“You probably never had a formal eye exam or gave any attention to your feet or dental exams before,’ says Dr Hussein. “Those body parts are very important for living as we are on our feet most of our life and enjoy life with what we see and eat.

“See your doctors regularly, as they will review records of your blood sugar tests done at home; check your blood pressure and cholesterol and perform other physical exams and laboratory tests that can diagnose any related or unrelated conditions at an early stage.

“Abstain from smoking and alcohol.

“Taking control of diabetes before it controls you is the smartest thing you can do and will result in a better lifestyle than others”.

Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com for bookings and more information.

Diabetes (Type 1 & 2) • yroid disorders & Nodules Pituitary & Adrenal Glands Disorders Parathyroid & Calcium disorders Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome • Cholesterol disorders Hypertension (High blood pressure) Vitamin D Deficiency • Osteoporosis • Obesity Available on Saturdays & Wednesdays 8 am - 12 pm & 1 pm - 5 pm department of endocrinology Royal Bahrain Hospital

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@RoyalBahrainHospital |www.royalbahrainhospital.com

May 2016

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showcase BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

PREPARING FOR PREGNANCY

Dr Maria Isabel Talay has worked in obstetrics and gynaecology at Bahrain Specialist Hospital since 2009, before which she was based in the Philippines. We caught up with Dr Maria to get some pointers for those planning to start a family.

What would your advice be for women who are trying to conceive?

It’s very important for women to start taking folic acid three months before conception, to prevent neuro defects. In addition, if they can see an obstetrician gynecologist for thorough pre-conception counselling, it would be beneficial. Depending on the doctor’s assessment, you may need to have a few tests carried out, such as a blood test.

Counselling is especially important for women with genetic issues, those who have difficulty conceiving or those who have a history of miscarriage.

Is it true that stress can sometimes cause problems for conceiving?

Yes, it is very important to be stress

free and not worry too much about falling pregnant. It’s easier said than done, especially when women get asked constantly from friends and family about when they are going to have a baby. Although there is never any malice intended, family and friends do add to the pressure especially for those who are having a hard time conceiving.

But try not to overthink and worry about it.

What about exercise and diet?

It is very important, especially for those who are obese, to exercise to reduce weight. As well as this, a well-balanced diet recommended by the doctor should also be incorporated to ensure a healthy start for a possible pregnancy.

Porsche 911 Launch Behbehani Brothers launched the new 911 at the Porsche Centre Bahrain, Sitra.

Management and staff at the launch

Kareem, Mohammed, Abbas & Hussain

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May 2016

Abuqasim Shirazi & Shaikh Hamed Al Khalifa

Colin, Mohammed & Uwe

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LIFESTYLE | parenting

Taking It Step by Step With the number of integrated families on the rise, WTM looks at expert advice on how to get the perfect happy, blended brood.

G

etting married may mean it’s just the two of you starting your new life together.

But, for many people, the wedding means an integrated family with either or both partners bringing children from earlier relationships into the mix.

Becoming a step-parent can be both challenging and rewarding and there is plenty of advice and support available. If you’re already a mum, you may find the two sets of kids don’t immediately warm to each other. If you’re going from childless to instant family, the transition can seem overwhelming.

Parenting website kidshealth.org advises giving the relationship time to build, saying: “The initial role of a step-parent is that of another caring adult in a child's life, similar to a loving family member or mentor. You may desire a closer bond right away, and might wonder what you're doing wrong if your new stepchild doesn't warm up to you or your kids as quickly as you'd like — but relationships need time to grow.

“Start out slow and try not to rush into things. Let things develop naturally — kids can tell when adults are being fake or insincere. Over time, you can develop a deeper, more meaningful relationship with your stepchildren, which doesn't necessarily have to resemble the one they share with their birth parents.”

There are a number of factors to take into account when looking at how your stepchildren relate to you such as: whether their birth parent is still alive; their age and how long you’ve known them; your partner’s relationship with their ex; and how often you

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see the children if they don’t live with you.

A few simple points can help make the transition easier for all involved.

Hard though it may seem, remember you are the adult in the situation. Kids need rules and boundaries, time and love. There’s often a temptation to replace these with gifts and goodies, particularly if the relationship doesn’t seem to be going well. Try not to take this route; spending time and effort with new family members will reap far greater rewards.

If you find yourself treating your stepchildren differently to your own, you will need to make a big effort to be fair and equal.

Again this may initially be hard, particularly if the bonding process is not going as quickly as you had hoped. But persevere. Only by being consistent will you gain their trust and, eventually, love.

Make sure you have a clear set of house rules, agreed between you and your partner – you may need back up occasionally. Keep the rules simple, ageappropriate and, if possible, close to those they are already used to following. Making

sure everyone knows what’s expected of them leaves less room for conflict.

Never bad mouth the other parent. Yes, it can be hard and there may well be all sorts of issues between the adults involved. But the most important thing for children to know is that both parents still love them, regardless of their feelings for each other. Try to be respectful about their birth parents, even if the kids are moaning about them – it’s all right for little Johnny to whinge about his mum; woe betide anyone else who does so!

Build your relationship by looking for things you can all do together as a family. It could be having a weekly film night, with everyone getting a chance to pick the movie, or all going together to support a child’s sporting endeavours. Ask them about the things they like to do.

Make sure birthdays and other events are special by getting everyone involved – you might want to suggest a shopping trip with your stepchildren to help them buy gifts. And if they’re spending their special day with the other parent, give them a chance to celebrate with you too.

And lastly, just remember, take your time.

Give the relationship a chance to develop.

Accept that there will be ups and downs. Kids aren’t kids for very long, so, if things really aren’t working out – start counting the days till they head off to college. g May 2016

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LIFESTYLE | parenting

Don’t Be a Worry Wart Warts are unpleasant but Dr Jinan Harith Darwish explains that there’s really little to worry about and time’s the best healer.

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arts or verrucas are caused by viruses in the human papilloma virus (HPV) family. These are incredibly common and can be effortlessly passed between people. They can also spread around the body. For reasons that are not entirely clear, children seem to develop warts more often than adults. This is NOT a sign of a problem with the immune system. You can lessen the spread of warts by discouraging picking, biting or scratching. In fact the ones who can do the most to prevent warts are those who actually have them; when warts are covered, they are far less likely to spread.

Pools and the showers have typically been associated with warts, but a recent study suggests they've been getting a bad rap without good reason – kids are much more likely to pick up warts from family members and school friends. Since they can be caught effortlessly, it's a good idea to wear pool shoes or flip-flops as a substitute of going barefoot at the pool or other places where people walk around without shoes. Warts grow really slowly, so it can be hard to figure out where you got them from.

What parents most want to know is how to make warts go away quickly. That's tough because warts don't go away quickly! Parents need to remember patience is key. Essentially, patience single-handedly can, on occasion, do the trick; for the most part warts will go away by themselves, if given adequate time.

But if you wish to hurry them along, there are some things you can do: • Salicylic acid is the most common treatment, and it's widely available without a prescription. Rub the wart gently with a nail file before using the medication or, alternatively, soak it in warm water.

It still can take weeks or months for the warts to go away.

• Warts don't like being frozen, and this can help get rid of them a bit sooner, but not quickly. There are freezing treatments you can buy over the counter, and they are indeed worth a shot, but for more effective freezing treatments you'll need to take your child to your dermatologist.

• If you stick colourful duct tape over the wart, and replace it every few days, it may assist by taking off the top layer of the wart. By covering it, you can also help prevent the spread.

There are additional treatments such as cantharadin that can be done in a doctor's office. And, in rare cases, sometimes we even perform surgery to remove warts. If a wart isn't going away, or if you aren't completely sure that what you are dealing with is a wart, make sure to take your child to your doctor.

Hand washing habitually is always good in the prevention of all sorts of infections, not just warts. The HPV vaccine can help prevent genital warts, but it doesn't prevent all warts.

Bottom line: warts aren't dangerous, you can't really prevent them – and they will go away in their own time. g

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Marks & Spencer

LIFESTYLE | parenting

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KIDS’

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PLAYGROUND Baby on board! This month our kids’ page is dedicated to the very little ones in our lives.

Cute, comfortable and practical pieces are the best picks for happy and stylish babies throughout the hot season.

1. Hat and booties: GAP; 2. Shorts: H&M; 3. Long-sleeved bodysuit: BHS; 4. Rompers with cap: M&Co; 5. Suspender trousers: Next; 6. Shoes: Tapealoeil;

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7. Hat: Okaidi Obaibi; 8. Bodysuit: Mothercare; 9. Polo rompers: F&F; 10. Baby set: Mamas & Papas.

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Al Areen Aquathlon

Al Areen Palace & Spa in cooperation with Adnan Events Management held the 1st Annual Al Areen Aquathlon at the Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD).

Amanda & Carl Ibrahim, Abdul Majeed & Saad

Ahmed, Adnan & Abdulla

Jennifer, Shiela & Jenny Karina, Alia & Alranne

Mahmood & Taleb Elizabeth & Zion

Ryan, David & Chen

Abdulla & Eric

Handicrafts Festival

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority held the Hurafana Handicrafts Festival in celebration of Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism 2016 at Bab Al Bahrain, Manama. The event was held in the presence of Shaikh Khaled Bin Hamood Al Khalifa, Acting Chief Executive of the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, ministers and other top officials.

Abbas

Hussain

Hussain

Dignitaries and top officials at the festival

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LIFESTYLE | parenting

COOKING WITH CONFIDENCE Join us at one of the island’s favourite hotels for an exclusive, fun kitchen experience for mums and kids to share.

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ell, after announcing our first Mums’ Meet-up last month, we discovered the dinosaurs, though not quite extinct, are stuck in Qatar. So this month we’ve stayed with a tried-and-tested venue close to home.

On Tuesday, May 24, we invite you to join us in taking over Kolors restaurant at the K Hotel in Juffair for a morning of culinary fun. Chefs will be giving demonstrations and setting cooking challenges that mums and little ones can join in together and the Woman This Month team will be on hand to make sure everyone has a great time.

If the kids are in school and you’d just like a chance to chat to other mums over some fun activities, you’re also free to join.

We’ll be releasing more details as the month goes on so keep your eye on our social media and, since places are limited, contact us on mums@womanthismonth.com to let us know if you’re planning to come along. We hope to see lots of our readers there.

Around Town

The Happy Box opened its Bahraini franchise at Riffa Views.

Al Rashid Group held a grand reopening of its Lee Cooper store at Marina Mall.

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Al Rashid Group celebrated its milestone achievement of 500,000 Shukran members in Bahrain at Centrepoint, City Centre Bahrain.

Apparel Group awarded winners of The Little Masters Art Competition, at a ceremony held at The Children’s Place, City Centre Bahrain.

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LIFESTYLE | home

Making the Right Move

Moving house can be exhausting, and at times, exasperating. The secret to minimise the teething troubles in a new nest is to pay attention to detail while you house hunt, writes Behnaz Sanjana.

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here is no dearth of choices when it comes to renting or buying residential space in Bahrain. From homes on serene waterfronts, to chic apartments in urban pockets of the island, to secluded green oases – the options are extensive.

OK, so you’ve scoured houses for hours together and you’ve finally stepped into a potential pad that you feel positive about. But don’t say "I do" and put a deposit on it before you’ve seen the nooks and crannies.

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD – The area might be one you like, but consider which pocket the house is situated in. Does the bottleneck close by cause perpetual traffic snarls? If it’s going to be a frustrating experience to do the school run or get to work on time every single day, you might want to think twice before signing on the dotted line.

If it is an apartment or a villa within a compound you are thinking to rent, get to know a little about your neighbours. Consider your lifestyle; does it conform to that of the general populace of your building or compound? Sometimes people move out of perfectly good homes because the neighbours were far too noisy, or vice versa!

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STORAGE AND SPACE – This is often overlooked by novice house hunters, especially in fully furnished facilities. Taking into account the size of your family, and the things you own, do a quick mental comparison of the storage you currently have with the space you see in a potential home. Include wardrobes, dressers, drawers for miscellanea and, importantly,

kitchen cabinets. Buying good quality storage is a major drain on the pocket, and, if your budget is already tight, you might want to peruse other options.

Even if you own your cupboards and appliances, estimate whether all of them will be able to comfortably fit into your new space.

It’s a little too late when the movers inform www.womanthismonth.com

you that there’s no way your fridge will fit through the kitchen door.

If you are buying a house, it might be prudent to keep in mind future plans. Enough square feet for later requirements, like a baby’s room, study or home office, should be given thought to save time and money in the long run.

UTILITIES – There’s more you should know about the electricity and plumbing of the house, other than if it’s included in the house rent. It pays to check if the plumbing and wiring facilities accommodate your lifestyle.

Will you have to suffer a rude shock of cold water in the shower if someone else turns on the hot water in the kitchen sink? Will the water pressure turn into a trickle if taps in more than one bathroom are turned on? Just

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flipping switches to see if they work is not enough. Check that the wattage stays constant when gadgets are used all over the house at once. Such niggles just sap precious time when it is of the utmost essence.

SPIC AND SPAN – A freshly painted house might seem new and welcoming at the first look. It’s when you actually start living there, that you realise you have overlooked some major groan-worthy factors – gaping spaces between the air-conditioning and the walls, mould around the shower cubicle, tarnished bathroom fixtures, missing pieces of carpeting, and worst of all, a family of roaches living in the dark corners of musty kitchen cabinets. It is wise to spend a fair amount of time going around a house, once you find one, with Sherlock’s magnifying glass. Visit the place in daylight and at night.

The problems you notice may not be grave, but can be fixed by the landlord or previous owner before you move in. Sure, you can just live with a broken tile, but you don’t want them to take it out of your security deposit if you ever move out.

PARKING AND PETS – An apartment may be spacious and well furnished, and have all the elements you are looking for in a home.

But it may be in a busy, commercial area of town where you might have to drive around the block a couple of times to find parking space. The task might be more daunting over the weekends – something to mull over before you accept the keys.

Not only must pet owners find out if pets can share your space, but also if regular visitors can bring pets along, as some owners have very strict rules about this.

SAFE AND SOUND – There may be an intercom at the entrance of the building, but nobody will tell you that it’s kaput. Ditto for the fire extinguishers; they may not have been serviced in years.

Parents of little kids may want to check that windows function properly and the railings of balconies are high enough to contain eager kids.

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LIFESTYLE | travel

Rockin' All Over The World Music festivals are, for many people, the purest and most enjoyable way to experience live music.

Ankita Mamgain shares a few options where the euphoria extends far beyond the stage.

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wise man once said, “Going to a music festival not only makes you happier, it changes your life.” The power of music is undoubtedly one of the most incredible parts of the human experience. When added to a social gathering involving people from diverse backgrounds, coming together for their love of this art, it becomes a force unparalleled by anything else. One of the best ways to live this experience is at a music festival. The performers, the

element of travel, meeting strangers and general euphoria makes them so popular. If you are going to invest in a (probably pricey) festival pass, ensure the best bang for your buck by attending a festival where the scenic surroundings are just as great as the tunes.

With an ever-increasing number of top-notch events popping up every year, we bring you three summer fests that not just guarantee great music, but also an amazing holiday.

Downtown Seattle

SASQUATCH! MUSIC FESTIVAL, GEORGE, USA This is one festival where the setting alone can guarantee hordes of people. Sasquatch! music festival is held every Memorial Day weekend at a beautiful gorge in central Washington.

The view of the gorge is picturesque and is one of the most breathtaking sites you will see in your lifetime. Add to this this year’s acts, which include The Cure, Florence and the Machine, Disclosure, Four Tet and Major Lazer. If this sounds like where you want to be from May 2730 this year, make sure you load up on supplies

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Sasquatch

Olympic National Park

and get some good quality camping gear. The stage at Sasquatch! is an outdoor amphitheatre, and no matter where you’re situated, the sound and view will be phenomenal.

Named in honour of America’s first president, George is a small town that is famous for its forests, rich history and one of the most extraordinary amphitheatres in the world. The state of Washington is home to many natural treasures and urban wonders that promise a wonderful road trip. Surrender

to the enchanting landscape of Olympic National Park in Port Angeles and then get lost in the futuristic cityscape of downtown Seattle. Located between Seattle and Olympia, Tacoma is home to the amazing Museum of Glass, then head to sunnier Spokane for its mesmerising gardens and parks. Do visit the charming town of Leavenworth that celebrates its Bavarian heritage throughout the year. www.womanthismonth.com

Barcelona city

Primavera Sound

PRIMAVERA SOUND, BARCELONA Music journos have dubbed it the best music festival in the making and one has even gone on to claim that “Primavera Sound is to US festivals what a nice contemporary-design sofa is to a beat-up couch from Goodwill.”

Started in 2001, the festival celebrates its 16th edition this year with a smashing line-up that includes Radiohead, Tame Impala, Suede, Beach House, Beirut, PJ Harvey and Sigur Rós among 150-odd artists and bands who’ll perform from May 30-June 5. Unlike Barcelona's other renowned modern music fest, Sonar, which concentrates mostly on electronic beats, Primavera Sound boasts a diverse line-up year after year covering genres such as alternative,

Leafy Tapas Barca

indie, pop, rap, hip hop, electro, dance, folk, world music, jazz and pretty much anything else you can think of.

You can catch a number of live gigs at the city’s numerous pubs and bars but the main action is reserved for Parc del Forum, a vast and surreal urban landscape that seems almost purpose-built for the job.

Another factor, and a very important one, that adds to the experience is the amazing summer weather in Barcelona. However the sea breeze

can bring down the temperatures at night, so carrying an extra layer is much advised.

If gig-hopping in the city, the best way to do this is on foot while discovering Barcelona’s modernist architecture and numerous other treasures. Fill up on tapas, pintxos and vermouth or head to Montjuïc Mountain for a break during the day and marvel at the astonishing views of the city.

Hassan Tower

MAWAZINE – RHYTHMS OF THE WORLD, RABAT, MOROCCO As the name suggests, Mawazine attracts an international audience as well as a celebrity following. This popular nine-day festival blends cultures and attracts musical talent from all over the world. The festival was founded in 2001 as part of a government initiative to promote a more liberal image of Morocco, and has since expanded. By inviting thousands of singers and musicians from all corners of the world, Mawazine calls for sharing and conviviality among cultures.

Many big names like Stevie Wonder and Rihanna have graced the festival’s stages, and artists from around the world exhibit their works at individual and collective shows. At this festival you can hear everything from

Berber fusion rock to Colombian cumbia music. To be held this year from May 20-May 28, the line-up includes Iggy Azalea, Jean Wyclef, the National Orchestra of Barbes, The Afrobeat Experience and Christina Aguilera.

Rabat, Morocco's capital is the centre of cultural dynamism and is a great starting point to get acquainted with the country.

When not attending a concert, explore its array of historical sites and museums or wander in local markets and gardens. Do visit the 11th century fortress in the Kasbah district, the incredible Hassan Tower, tomb chamber at the Mausoleum of King Mohamed V and the Andalusian-style Medina.

Mausoleum of King Mohamed V

Rabat Justin Timberlake

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Fashion Show Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society held a fashion show, featuring Rabia Yalçın, Turkish fashion designer, at The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain.

Vicky & Jameela

Shaikha Rana, Sebahat, Camille, Rabia & HE Hatun Demirer

Ann & Romina

Hala, Laila, Salwa & Samar

Nor Hayati, Reem, Fouzia, Rukia, Mamta & Ratna

Mother’s Day

Maha & Lubna

Happy mums celebrated Mother’s Day at the Ramada Hotel & Suites, Amwaj Islands.

Zahra, Zamya & Neelam

Razan, Vicka, Nada & Vicky

Race Party

Downtown Rotana held a poolside party in celebration of the F1 race.

Lilian & Andrea

Fatema, Jameela, Shahla & Layla

Vijayant, Baha & Hisham

Rengin, Jameela, Fareeda, Mona & Mona

Rachel & Abbas

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Aslel & Nawal

Richard & Vic

Dan & Dan

Manilyn & Joan

Jo

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showcase MINI

A STYLISH UNDERSTATEMENT The commanding, elegant and matured third generation MINI Clubman made its Middle East Debut at the Dubai Motor Show on November 2015.

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his sleek third generation model, which was launched in Bahrain in Q1 2016, has grown both inside and out and is sure to set hearts racing with its impressive list of features.

MINI has long been regarded as a little car with a big personality and there’s no sign of that changing as the marque moves into the future.

Fortunately, the brand retains its trademark features while introducing a plethora of new options and a moderately larger design.

Just over 32cm longer and around 12cm wider than its predecessor, the new model provides plenty of space to meet the demands of youthful, urban mobility. Classic MINI design

cues, such as wheels at the far corners of the car, short overhangs and the incipient wedge shape of the side, signal the dynamic driving experience before a wheel has even turned.

Other style-defining details such as the side scuttles with indicators have also been redesigned. Horizontally aligned as before, the indicator unit no longer emerges from the side scuttle join and now stands alone.

The interior has also expanded and the cabin’s new dimensions are made palpable through a generous sweep, clear surfaces and a more ‘grown-up’ sense of space. The defining element of the interior is its broad instrument

panel, which adopts the generous surface areas of the exterior and brings them inside the car.

As in the new MINI three-door and fivedoor, the instrument cluster is positioned on the steering column. The round centre console now comprises all entertainment and navigation functions, as well as further infotainment options.

Smart solutions, including a multi-adjustable rear seat and a load space that can be made level when required, all ensure segment-style functionality. Another striking feature is the emphatic single-seat concept of the five-seater that extends its athletic character into the rear of the vehicle.

The new Clubman will launch with a choice of 12 exterior colour variants, with the powerful Melting Silver Metallic and Pure Burgundy Metallic making their world premiere.

For the ultimate in personalisation there is also a choice of nine seat covers, including the new variant Leather Chester in an exclusive Indigo Blue shade. With their diagonal quilting, these new-generation seats evoke the classic Chesterfield sofa. The design of the sports seats thus cites the British heritage of MINI while delivering a contemporary interpretation of its characteristic diamond pattern for the automotive context.

Call 17 750-750.

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LIFESTYLE | food SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL

A VERY CHOCOLICIOUS AFFAIR

Brunch, and the option to eat and drink as much as you like, never gets old. Add a generous helping of chocolate into the mix and you might just have heaven on earth. Liz O’Reilly went to find out.

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’ve become a bit of a hermit of late. A house move and the resultant painting, decorating and gardening mean most invitations have been politely declined and my friends constantly complain they never see me anymore. However, with an almost addictionlike devotion to chocolate, the option to check out the Sheraton’s new Chocoholic Brunch was one offer I simply couldn’t refuse.

So eager were we to see the goodies that my dining companion and I didn’t even try for fashionably late, rather arriving bang on time to be greeted by our charming waiter and seated at a table overlooking the terrace.

With bubbles poured and fruit punch ordered, we headed for the salads and appetisers where we first encountered the chocolate theme in the form of a choco-balsamic dressing. I must admit, I wasn’t over keen on the idea but I gave it a go and was pleasantly surprised to discover a rich flavour, almost sweet but tempered by the sharp tang of the balsamic. Perhaps a bit of an acquired taste but certainly worth a try.

In anticipation of some seriously decadent desserts, I piled my plate high with delicious fresh, green leaves, beetroot and other healthy options to start. My pal opted for dumplings and soup and we both debated the wide

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range of sushi, including one roll topped with dark chocolate strands and chocolate beans.

With live cooking for chicken, fish and pasta as well as a shawarma station, the choice for main course offers something for everyone. My friend went for plump jumbo prawns cooked with garlic and the house-made tepanyaki sauce. She declared them “possibly the best she’s ever eaten”, which, coming from an Aussie, is praise indeed and had the chef smiling broadly.

I chose rack of lamb, you get to cut your own portion so you can decide how many chops to take. Brown and crisp on the outside and deliciously delicate and pink on the inside, I

soon forgot my intentions of saving an extra-large space for dessert and headed back for a second helping, accompanied by minted potatoes and grilled crunchy veggies.

And then it was time for the piece de resistance…the dessert counter, over which we’d both been, not so subtly, drooling since our arrival. I started with a bowl of something that resembled chocolate um ali with delicious pieces of chocolate, nutty crunchy, wafery things – not the most technical description to be sure, but nonetheless amazingly, sweetly comforting and very filling.

My dining companion chose a selection of mini cakes, chocolate mousse and crème brulée, also chocolate flavoured. Our table fell silent.

Yep, it really was that good.

And even though I was almost full to bursting, super-sized sundae glasses piled high with profiteroles were just too much of a temptation, so back to the dessert counter I headed. They looked delicious and decadent, and they didn’t disappoint.

Superbly light choux pastry encasing a gooey centre and topped, of course, with melted chocolate. If you can resist that kind of temptation, then, I’m sorry, we just can’t be friends.

We waddled back to our car, more than replete, humming the tunes of the Latino band who’d accompanied our choc fest and vowing to return to do more justice to that awesome dessert counter. www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | food

Wedding Bites From traditional sit down meals to venturing a bit out-of-the-box, here are some crazy-cool ideas for your wedding supper.

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big part of the wedding, to say it plain and simple, is keeping yourself and your guests fed and watered. But, well, it is a time of celebration so a fest is certainly in order. How you decide to serve it is entirely dependent on your budget and creativity. Here are some ideas, from the traditional to the decidedly quirky, that’ll suit all tastes and pockets.

A BALMY BBQ

TRIED AND TESTED

Those going for a ‘traditional’ wedding venue, can opt for a more conventional three-course wedding meal option. If you want a formal sit-down dinner or lunch with good food, this is the route to go down. Check with your venue or caterers that you can have a menu tasting before the day, to make sure you are happy with what you will be served. Buffets offer a retro feel and can be cost-effective too. This gives you a chance to serve a great variety which takes care of fussy eaters as there’s much to choose from.

Barbecue is a lovely and relaxed option especially for a charming spring wedding on the island as the weather is favourable for an outdoorsy set up.

There are caterers out there that offer this option with live cooking stations, giving your guests a chance to mingle taking in the sights and sounds of the food and having it prepared to their liking. If you do fancy DIY-ing your wedding BBQ, with a little organisation it could be totally possible and save you a good few dinars too.

THE HIGH ROAD

If your wedding reception is scheduled for the late afternoon, instead of going for a full-blown lunch, you could opt for a high tea with smaller bites of sweet and savoury dishes.

How sophisticated you want the spread to be is entirely up to you.

Many hotels on the island serve decadent afternoon snacks with an exhaustive selection of teas, coffees and even sparkling beverages which can make for a delightful and light wedding meal.

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TRUCKING IN

This is the ultimate movable feast for your guests that is cool, quirky and has comfort written all over it.

Either design your own food truck for the day or have some popular ones stationed at the party venue; this food serving option instantly creates a casual vibe.

Head to local events or markets, try out their food and ask them if they cater for events. For dessert, what could be cooler than having an ice cream van at your wedding party? Popular with both children and adults alike, this will be a guaranteed hit.

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horoscopes

Star

Gazing Raphael tells us what’s written in the stars this month Aries

Don’t let your stubbornness over a petty dispute ruin the potential for a wonderful holiday. Just because you can’t have everything your own way, it isn’t fair to allow those closest to you to suffer as well. Swallow your pride and try to get things back on track otherwise it could turn out to be a very long break for you indeed. On the health front you have to be careful not to rush back to work and aggravate a back injury before it is properly healed.

Sagittarius

You live life to the full. That is one of the features of your sign and something that draws others to you. However, it can also make you intimidating as well as attractive and this month you may find someone is put back by your forthright and self-important approach. Try to be a little diplomatic and even supportive of their opinion, especially since they bring a particular skill-set to the table that you need right now.

You have made a spur of the minute decision and now you are going to have to live with the consequences of that choice. Over-enthusiasm and a lack of thought will see you delivered into a situation that it is not going to be easy to emerge from. You are one of the Zodiac’s most resourceful signs but this challenge won’t be an easy one! If you want to get through May unscathed then it is going to take a lot of effort on your part.

Taurus

Leo

Capricorn

Gemini

Virgo

Aquarius

Libra

Pisces

Your new life plan is well underway this month and you will find there is a great deal to contend with as you move your world to another place entirely. You will have never felt so full of energy and joy and you will more than likely be a good person to be around. Creatively you are also driven towards you end game and if any of you are planning on that once in a life time novel or screenplay then now is the time to tackle it!

The warmth of approaching summer keeps you in good spirits this month, even though you have had to face a number of challenges that tested your resolve throughout March and April. However, now you are back on the right track and feel like nothing can stop you. Just don’t forget to make some time for the details.

Remember - the big picture is all well and good but it’s the finer details, which give a canvas life

Cancer

New neighbours could give you reason to tear your hair out this month as you are forced to sit through several weeks of intense building work that has gone way beyond what you had originally been told. Although you are well within your rights to explode, try and be diplomatic about things as you are sure to get a better outcome. On the romance front, a mysterious letter is going to set your heart racing and promises much for the near future.

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Scorpio

May 2016

There are a few things in your life that don’t seem to be quite in harmony right now and before you can really get on with some important work this month you need to consider how to deal with that. There are quite a few opportunities but to really take advantage of them you have to be in the correct frame of mind. On the health front a visit to the dentist might be in order even though you the particular pain area doesn’t seem that obvious.

Your patient, methodical approach is going to be put to the test this month as you are thrown into a project that may take you outside of your comfort zone. This won’t be an easy thing for your sign to do but you must try to break that habit if you want to progress successfully.

Financially you could find yourself having to go cap in hand to a relative because of some mismanagement with your funds but don’t beat yourself up too much about it.

You can sometimes be accused of indecision in your life, especially when it comes to relationships and this month may see you encounter complications because you are not prepared to commit to a partner in a way they expect you to. Unless you want to see the door close on what has been a rewarding union to date, be assertive! Your only other challenge this month could be around work and what you do with a rather floundering career right now.

Of late you have been dissatisfied in life and you are becoming restless. You are on the lookout for new challenges and for once, you may even be prepared to step out of your comfort zone to find them! Just be careful what you wish for because on occasions even your capable figure can bite off more than it can chew. However, on the flip side you need to test yourself because you can’t continue the way you are doing.

Be careful in matters of finance this month, especially if someone is trying to get you to commit to a loan or some other expensive agreement. Sometimes your sign can be easily led and before you put pen to paper, think through whether you can really afford what it is you are considering. Aside from this you may also need to ask yourself another question. Do you really need what it is you are thinking of spending your on?

You may find yourself in quite a reflective mood over the next few weeks and much of this could be in connection to some crossed words with a loved one that have hit home and hurt your feelings a little. The problem is that the truth can be painful on occasions and it might just be a case of you having to listen and trying to learn from the experience. You don’t like conflict at the best of times but perhaps you are not as innocent as you might believe. www.womanthismonth.com

last word

In Her Shoes

HOW MANY PAIRS OF SHOES DO YOU OWN?

Marketing specialist and young mum Hina Mirza shares advice and tells us what rocks her world.

Twenty pairs; a modest combo of heels, trainers, sneakers and boots.

WHAT SUPERPOWER WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE?

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED AND WHY?

I’m torn between flying or to be able to time travel.

Last week; someone sent me a short video on making time for your mother. That had me in tears.

Hina Mirza

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE FILM OF ALL TIME?

WHAT SONG IS GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOU DANCE? Return of the Mack, Mark Morrison.

At the moment it’s Gravity.

WHAT THREE THINGS ARE ALWAYS IN YOUR HANDBAG? My purse, phone and wet wipes (I’m a mum!).

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? FAVOURITE THING TO EAT FOR BREAKFAST? Crunchy hot buttered toast with a hot chocolaty macchiato … yum!

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May 2016

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PERFECT WEEKEND?

To be able to curl up on the sofa with a good novel.

Three pieces of advice from three different people: • You must know all aspects of your business.

• Always approach a situation with a position of power.

• As soon as you get emotional, you lose the argument. www.womanthismonth.com