Sakina Design Gift Guide - Ramadan/Eid 2014 by Sakina Design

gift guide [ ramadan/eid 2014 edition | by sakina design ]

welcome

lhamdulillah, Ramadan is here againâ&#x20AC;Ś our

favorite time of the year! For us, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a time to improve our spiritual state, a time to reconnect with friends and family, and a time to be more generous. All this increased activity can be overwhelming at times. What should we cook? Who should we invite? Should we give the kids money? Candy? Or maybe gifts? How about when we visit our friends and family what should we bring? We hope this Sakina Gift Guide will help you to enjoy and benefit from this blessed time, with a little less stress. n

Be inspired with great gift ideas from artists, designers, lifestyle gurus and personalities from around the world

Learn about charities doing great work around the world

Choose from delicious and refreshing recipes

Download FREE printable invitations and signage for your iftar party

Download FREE printable Ramadan banners and lanterns.

Pick up some new tools and techniques to have a more productive Ramadan.

Wishing you a most enjoyable and blessed Ramadan,

Jontie + Pik Founders | Sakina Design

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

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SAKINA DESIGN

‘bringing people together’ We’re inspired by a passion to promote tranquility and understanding through gift giving and home decorating

contents

3 welcome

gifts guide 7 toddler

by Iva Izman

8 Boy

by Kung Pik Liu

10 girl

by Iva Izman

13 Lifestyle

by Liana Rosnita Redwan-Beer

14 Jewelry Lover

by Kung Pik Liu

17 Creative Muslim

by Ayesha Mattu & Nura Maznavi

from our fans 32 Gift Stories Inspiring stories from Sakina Design fans, describing the best gift they ever received, and what made it so special.

19 Home

by Joumana Medlej

20 Foodie

by Yvonne Maffei

22 Off-Kilter

by Lena Khan

feature 42 Summer Iftar Party Let us help you host a lemon-themed iftar, with beautiful printables and a deliciously refreshing menu. Recipes by Yvonne Maffei

25 Car Guy

Printables design by Kung Pik Liu

Printables photos by Jontie Karden

by Jontie Karden

27 Productive Ramadan

by Mohammed Faris

29 Asian Inspired

by Haji Noor Deen

extra 54 Ramadan & Eid Printables DIY festive banners, lanterns and money envelopes

31 Tech

Printables design by Kung Pik Liu

Photos by Jontie Karden

by Peter Gould

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

‘Give each other gifts and you’ll love each other’ P r o p h e t M u h a mm a d ( S A W S )

Finding gifts for people is never easy and so we asked artists, designers, lifestyle gurus and personalities from around the world to share their favorite gift ideas. We just love the ‘Off Kilter’ gift suggestions by Lena Khan. Check out these and other inspiring finds on the following pages…

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

gifts Toddler

‘Raindrop’ Vinyl Wall Stickers

Yes, Yes! A Bundle of Board Books

NotOnTheHighStreet.com

Amazon.com

Honest Bubble Bath Iva’s Favorite Charity -------Global Humanitarian Aid (GHA)

Honest.com

Pillow Slept Cloud Gray Moon at Etsy

Gift Boxed Arabic Alphabet Button Fridge Magnet Set AMEPIX at Etsy

Zoo Shape Sorter DwellStudio.com

hand picked by: Iva Izman Sakina Artist

Iva graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design from RMIT Melbourne. Soon after her first daughter was born in 2010, she founded her design firm, In My Studio. Now with 3 little kids, she is a busy work-at-home-mum balancing family, work and social commitments.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

gifts Boy DIY Konstructor Cameras MoMAStore.org

Build A Masjid Game SmartArk.com

Ilyas & Duck Book #1 & #2 LittleBigKids.com

Pikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favorite Charity -------Zaytuna College Vega 360 Telescope Geovision Precision FAO.com

iPhone Controlled Ferrari SharperImage.com

hand picked by: Kung Pik Liu Co-Founder | Sakina Design

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Kung Pik Liu was drawn to design from a young age. While studying at FIT in NYC, she adopted the Islamic faith. Exploring her new identity, she discovered the beauty of Islamic art and decided to share this beauty as a way of building bridges of understanding.

Outdoor Entertaining SHOP NOW u

This year, Eid falls in the middle of summer, a perfect time for outdoor entertaining. Add some fun and color to your outdoor living area with these handmade poufs and rugs.

gifts Girl Rosette Play Blanket DwellStudio.com

ABC Baby Nursery Alphabet Cards

LucyDarlingPrints at Etsy

Ivaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favorite Charity -------Global Humanitarian Aid (GHA)

Striped Wigwam

NotOnTheHighStreet.com

Fur Handbag

PumpkinPatch.com.au

Butterfly Wall Stickers NotOnTheHighStreet.com

Little Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Activity Book (Paperback) BookDepository.com

hand picked by: Iva Izman Sakina Artist

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Iva’s Collection Explore the colorful world of Iva Izman

10% OFF all Iva’s artwork when you use the coupon code:

IVA10 SHOP NOW u Expires 7/15/14

www.aquila-style.com

MODERN MUSLIM LIVING

gifts Lifestyle

Palesmo Messenger

La Perle Custom made frock

PaleStyle

IrnaLaPerle.com

‘Joys of Fasting’ Wall Hanging

ModernMuslimHome.com

Liana’s Favorite Charity -------Kraviti.com

Miss Mauzan Abaya (Spring/Summer 2014)

Bismillah Pendant Mox Botanicals, Actium Solid Perfume (Halal)

Mauzan.com

MonAmourCollection

MoxBotanicals.com

hand picked by: Liana Rosnita Redwan-Beer Founder | Aquila Style Magazine

Liana Rosnita Redwan-Beer is the founder and publisher of Aquila Style Magazine, the first magazine to cater to young, educated Muslim women with a worldly outlook who also want to remain true to their faith.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

Bass Cuff with Personalized Message

gifts Jewelry Lover

MonamourCollection.com

The Caroline Earring Charles Emerson Designs

Reclaimed Record Eye Pendant

WrecordsByMonkey.com

Rookery Wrap Necklace Pico Design

Pikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favorite Charity -------Zaytuna College

Palomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zellige Ring Tiffany.com

Geometric Pattern Stud Earrings

Corina Crooks at Etsy

hand picked by: Kung Pik Liu Co-Founder | Sakina Design

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Gifts SHOP NOW u

‘Give each other gifts and you’ll love each other’ — Prophet Muhammad (SAWS)

Romance, dating, sex and — Muslims? In these groundbreaking collections, American Muslim writers sweep aside stereotypes to share their search for love and speak openly for the first time about love, relationships, and sex.

“[P]ortraits of private lives that expose a group in some cases kept literally veiled, yet that also illustrate that American Muslim women grapple with universal issues.” – New York Times loveinshallah.com

gifts Creative Muslim

Ayesha & Nura’s Favorite Charity -------IMAN (the Inner-City Muslim Action Network) Nadia Janjua Art

NadiaJArt.com at Esty

G. Willow Wilson, Ms. Marvel Comics Marvel.com

Tanzila ‘Taz’ Ahmed’s Beats for Bangladesh: A Benefit Album In Solidarity with the Garment Workers of Bangladesh BeatsForBangladesh.bandcamp.com

Haldol and Hyacinths: A Bipolar Life Amazon.com

hand picked by: Ayesha Mattu & Nura Maznavi Editors | Love, InshAllah

Ayesha A. Mattu

Allah Necklace KatieMiranda.com

Ayesha A. Mattu is a writer, photographer, and philanthropy consultant and Nura Maznavi is a civil rights attorney, writer and Fulbright scholar. Together, they co-edited the non-fiction anthologies Love, InshAllah and Salaam, Love.

Nura Maznavi

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

Silkscreen prints are artworks in their own right of a very fine quality, enhanced with gold and silver ink, on 40% cotton paper. They are limited editions, signed out of 33 and numbered, printed

40% Off

on Tiziano paper with an

with code

environmentally-friendly

RamadanKareem2014

process. Size: 44x44 cm.

ends August 31

Joumana’s Collection Explore Joumana’s signature artwork that breathes new life into tradition Arabic calligraphy

10% OFF all Joumana’s artwork when you use the coupon code:

JOUMANA10 SHOP NOW u Expires 7/15/14

gifts Home

Love Bench

Balloon Vase

DiaBatal.com

MorusWorld.org

Joumana’s Favorite Charity -------Al-Kafaât Foundation

Set of Hammered Dishes Alyad.com

Mutanabbi’s Lion Arabic Calligraphy Print Everitte Barbee

Hammered Aluminum Boxes Alyad.com

hand picked by: Joumana Medlej Sakina Artist

Joumana was long drawn to meaningful expressions of creativity. Not content with merely reviving its old forms, she strives to find a contemporary language for Arabic calligraphy. Her resulting mandalas make the unseen visible and evoke the magic that arises when form and meaning are one.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

gifts Foodie

10 Instant Coffee Packets All Dressed up with Creamer & Sugar Trader Joe’s Store

Threshold™ Coastal Melamine Serveware Collection Target.com

Yvonne’s Favorite Charity -------Islamic Relief USA

Lavender Goat Milk Lotion UdderDelight.com

The Gaza Kitchen: A Palestinian Culinary Journey GazaKitchen.com

hand picked by: Yvonne Maffei Publisher | MyHalalKitchen.com

20 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Chocolate Mexicano Classic Collection TazaChocolate.com

Yvonne Maffei is the publisher of MyHalalKitchen.com, a halal food and cooking blog. She is also the author of Summer Ramadan Cooking. A convert to Islam, she shares halal alternatives to classic dishes, in an attempt to share the joy of foods she grew up eating.

10% Off with code src10offsd ends August 15

All of the same easy-to-make and easy-to-read recipes from the first edition, this time with updates and the addition of a few more delicious summer recipes your family will love this Ramadan and throughout the whole summer! These recipes will keep you out of the kitchen by helping you make quick dishes indoors or an outdoor grill for light but savory fare. Even the desserts are mostly light and no-bake, too!

gifts Off-Kilter

The Ex Pen Holder Overstock.com

Aqua Notes Waterproof Notepad MyAquaNotes.com

Mustache Pacifier FCTRY

Lena’s Favorite Charity -------Islamic Relief

Personalized WHATNOT™ Muppet FAO.com

Pop Quiz Wall Clock OfficePlayground.com

Comic Strip Photo Frame Amazon.com

hand picked by: Lena Khan Filmmaker

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Lena graduated from the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. She has written and directed short films as well as music videos. Currently, she is working on her directorial debut, “The Tiger Hunter”, a dramatic comedy feature that she co-wrote.

THE TIGER HUNTER is a dramatic comedy from writer/director Lena Khan, scheduled to be filmed in early 2014.

HOW TO HELP Currently, The Tiger Hunter team is seeking final funding for its film. While the majority of the budget has been secured through investment, we ask your support, in contributions small and large, to join us in helping making a high-level, hilarious and valuable film.

www.thetigerhunter.com

Home Decor SHOP NOW u

Let us help you create your tranquil escape in our increasingly hectic world

gifts Car Guy

Aerodynamic Audi Sport Umbrella

AudiCollectionUSA.com

BMW European Delivery Program BMWusa.com

Jontie’s Favorite Charity -------World Weavers: Muslim for a Month

Top Gear UK Show Tickets

Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi

ApplauseStore.com

FerrariWorldAbuDhabi.com

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in 1:18 scale Shop.Mercedes-Benz.com

hand picked by: Jontie Karden Co-Founder | Sakina Design

Jontie’s answer to the nagging question, “how can I make this world a better place?”, is Sakina Design. Through modern gifts and home decor, Jontie and his wife, Pik, hope to bring tranquility into people’s homes, while sharing the beauty of history, culture and understanding.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

Would You Like to Make this Ramadan a Transformative Experience? Learn the practical day-to-day solutions that prepare you mentally, physically, socially and spiritually for a powerful transforming Ramadan with ProductiveMuslimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Online Ramadan Course.

Join over 1000 student transforming their Ramadan today! Sign up here!

gifts Productive Ramadan

The Emergent Task Planner (ETP) Mini Notebook Shop.DavidSeah.com

Zeo Sleep Manager Pro digifit.com

Mohammedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favorite Charity -------Islamic Relief UK: Syria Appeal

Al Fajr Wrist Watch (WA-10S Deluxe Watch)

Moleskin Journal

AlFajr.com

Moleskine.com

Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity + Sleep Wristband fitbit.com

hand picked by: Mohammed Faris Founder | ProductiveMuslim.com

Mohammed is the Founder of ProductiveMuslim.com, a brand that inspires Muslims to become Productive through Islam by applying the latest productivity techniques.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

HajiNoorDeen.com

gifts Asian inspired

Cloud Teapot Set Teavana.com Double Happiness Salt & Pepper Mill Goods of Desire

The Kamish (Reed) Pen

ArabicCalligraphySupplies.com

Arabic Calligraphy

The British Museum Shop

Back To School Chopsticks & Rests

Blue-and-White Porcelain Photo Frame ShanghaiTang.com

Goods of Desire

hand picked by: Haji Noor Deen Sakina Artist

Haji Noor Deen Mi Guang Jiang is a renowned master of Arabic calligraphy. Born in 1963 in Shangdong province, China, he brings immense learning in traditional thought and Islamic art to a modern audience, juxtaposing them in a new calligraphic style all his own, both Eastern and Western.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

PETER GOULD COLLECTION Travel the Muslim world with award winning brand designer & digital artist, Peter Gould

10% OFF all Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artwork when you use the coupon code:

PETER10 SHOP NOW u Expires 7/15/14

gifts Tech

Google Glass Explorer Edition

Creativity, Inc.

CreativityIncBook.com

Glass.Google.com

Jot Script Stylus Adonit.net

iPad Air

Apple.com

PlayStation®4 with Camera Playstation.com

hand picked by: Peter Gould Sakina Artist

Jawbone® UP24™ Band Jawbone.com

Peter Gould embraced Islam while studying Design at the University of Technology in Sydney. His subsequent travels around the Muslim world inspired a unique visual fusion. His innovative, award-winning designs are highly sought after, as are his creative projects, speaking engagements and design workshops.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

from our fans

Gift Stories

lot of gift giving is expected and unfortunately not very special. But there are those moments when we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect a gestureâ&#x20AC;Ś or when it means so much because of the person or the moment weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in. We asked our fans to share those special moments, to help us better understand what makes a great gift. Not surprising, it has little to do with the price tag.

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

his is a hard question to answer, but I’ll make an attempt. I would have to say that the best gift I ever received was a watch from my parents for the occasion of my med school graduation. While the

watch is very nice, that is not what makes it special. It the is the backstory that gives it meaning. About a year before graduation I had shared a funny story with my parents: While making rounds in the hospital one day, I was asked by my supervising resident to take a certain patient for a walk and to monitor her heart rate while she walked. My wrist watch did not have a second hand, so I could not keep track of her heart rate. I was doomed to fail at the assigned task! While scanning the room for solutions, my eyes fell upon a large wall clock with a second hand, and it was just within my reach. On my tiptoes, I carefully took the large clock off the wall. With the clock in one hand and my patient in the other hand, we went for a stroll in the hospital hallway. Eeveryone who saw me made fun of me for taking the clock off the wall, but it served its purpose. After that I told myself that I needed to buy a wrist watch with a second hand. Well, I never got around to it, but my parents remembered this story and gifted me a watch with a second hand when I graduated so that I wouldn’t make a fool of myself when I moved on to my next phase of training (residency). Since then, I have worn the watch every day. It makes me remember not just the story behind it, but all the sacrifices that my parents have made to enable me to get to where I am today. It is humbling and it fills me with gratitude. For me, this watch — a gift — will always be a keepsake. by Randa Serag, California, USA

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

ver since I was kid I was always interested in jewellery/accessories but, as soon as I was introduced to silver, I became obsessed with it. At the age of 11

I still hadnt been able to convince my mom to buy me a silver piece because I was constantly losing or breaking the accessories I had. I remember begging her several times to buy me something but she kept refusing. One Eid day she unexpectedly handed me a box I shouldve guessed was a jewellery box but I did not . I still remember that moment when I saw the shiny flowery bracelet. I was too joyed ! I felt like I achieved a goal in life. It was like I passed a phase and suddenly became the coolest kid in school. I now owned a genuine silver bracelet; my mom finally trusted me with something this expensive. I showed it off to anyone I could get my hands on. I wore that bracelet every single day for a very long time. At 27-years-old my mom still gives me a silver item every Eid, and every year I wait for it like that 11-year-old kid who just wanted some silver in her life. by Tasneem Toghoj, Jordan

34 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Iva’s Collection Explore the colorful world of Iva Izman

10% OFF all Iva’s artwork when you use the coupon code:

IVA10 SHOP NOW u Expires 7/15/14

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been blessed with many wonderful gifts over the years, alhamdulillah. However, there are a few that stand out especially. Here is one such instance:

After two years of weekly gatherings, I was moving away and leaving my small religious study group behind. When the group started, most of us didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even know one another. I almost opted out of going to the first get-together because I was nervous! With the encouragement of a friend, I attended and SubhanAllah, I was blessed with spiritual enlightenment, social well being, community connections, and most of all friendships that have blossomed into lifelong sisterhood! If that wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t gift enough, my wonderful friends had a small goodbye party in my honor and I was presented with a beautifully put together scrapbook in which every woman had to put together one page of stories and pictures about some of their favorite memories of us together. What an amazing feeling it was to know and be loved and appreciated- and at a time in my life I needed it most. Alhamdulillah, still feeling so blessed to have those relationships in my life today and that is the best gift! by Sumaya A.

36 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

ne of the best gifts I received was unexpected and was a black diamond ring my husband choose from ice.com. He’s not the kind of guy who observes birthdays, anniversaries,

my Masters degree graduation, mother’s day and a Hallmark holiday is even more random, so it was all the more special. He’s remembered is to observe a handful of special occasions on-and-off during the last twenty years of our marriage but I love the ring the most and wear it everyday. That said, over the last twenty years, I’ve also matured and have come to truly appreciate all the non-material things he does for our family — whether it’s homework with the kids, making sure the house looks neat and the laundry is done or doing the planning for a vacation. I guess the best gift, then, is actually my husband — something my in laws gave me. :) It wasn’t a thought that I began this post with, but it’s a realization I just made. He’s made life easier for us in so many, many ways. For that, we’re truly blessed. by Nawsheen, Chicago, USA

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

Meaningful Rugs SHOP NOW u

Let us help you to create your tranquil escape in our increasingly hectic world

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

n my hand rested a long plain white envelope. By its exterior appearance, it didn’t seem significant — just a regular envelope. I examined it both front and back to find nothing written on it. Hmm…

what was in it? This mysterious envelope was just handed over to me by my husband with nothing really said and without much of an expression. He simply said, “It’s something for you”. I wondered to myself: Open it, or not open it? Eventually, my curiosity took precedence and I decided take a peak. Inside were two carefully folded sheets of paper. I unfolded them and found a jumble of letters and numbers. In the mix of confusion and excitement, my hasteful attempts at reading it were proving unfruitful. I couldn’t make sense of it. So, I calmed myself down and started from the top. On it said my name, followed by some codes and dates, then destination stating ‘Istanbul, Turkey’. I froze. Turkey? Could it be, I thought?? I looked up to find my husband gleaming saying, “Surprise, we’re going to Turkey!” I was in utter shock and disbelief. NO, really?! I gave myself a moment to let it all sink it. I reread the airline tickets, and it definitely had my name on it and it definitely said Turkey. This was last year. And from all my experiences in life, this would have to be the best gift I had ever received. We eventually had an amazing globetrotting time, shared great food, took in all the fascinating history, became inspired by the beautiful ancient architecture and took some great photographs while we were at it. The memories we made there will forever stay with me, alhamdulillah. In fact, I think a part of my heart was left back there in the ancient city of Istanbul and I dream of going again one day, inshallah… by Sobia Hussain, The Olive Tree Soap Company, Canada

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

love surprises so my favorite gift was obviously a surprise. The best part was that it wasn’t even a boxed gift with a gift receipt. It was a memory I will cherish forever. For our 10th wedding anniversary,

my husband surprised me with a getaway to Cancun, Mexico for just the two of us. He arranged for the kids to stay with his parents and we flew to sunny Cancun for five days. It has been five years since we enjoyed that gift, but the memories will hopefully last forever. by Kiran Ansari, www.upanotchgifts.com

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

y husband is a bit obsessed with cars, so naturally cars was a topic of discussion particularly while driving. I didn’t really have a favorite but would point to some I’d like, and I

remember seeing a car in a uncommon color and mentioning it. Months later, he calls me outside to grab something from him. I walk out and find him grinning in the car which was the exact color and model I had referred to. I was speechless, I had no idea he wanted to get me a new car and was ecstatic since I was driving a cluncker. by Alia Aboul-Nasr, California, USA

40 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

t was our first Eid together as husband and wife. A special time, but circumstances sometimes make it seem so different. Yet, those very circumstances made it even more memorable. We were not wealthy by any means. At that point money was very tight, yet we felt rich in one another’s company. Growing up Muslim and being from such a large family, I missed all the Eid preparations and festivities. It was so quiet that Eid. Living far from family and friends and not really knowing anyone, we were at least content in our growing friendship and love. That morning, we excitedly prepared for our first Eid together and went to prayer. Josh was in the Navy and his work schedule was sporadic at best. Once home, he changed into his uniform and headed to work. Being five months pregnant at the time and really having nowhere else to go or anyone else to visit, I lay down on the couch for a nap expecting Josh to be away for hours.

early to spend Eid with me. After a little bit of sleepy disorientation, I saw that he was holding a small jewelry box. I was not expecting anything and started crying that I hadn’t gotten get him anything. Sitting on the edge of the couch, he kept smiling, telling me, “Open it.” Through tears, I opened the box. Inside was a tiny, tear-drop shaped diamond pendant on a white gold chain. My first thought was how could we afford this? I loved it, but how? Every paycheck, Josh had been putting aside money for this necklace so he could get it for me on our first Eid together. To me this gift was priceless. It represented our love encompassed in the countless sacrifices we were to eventually make for one another and the mercy and gentleness we hoped to imbue our marriage with. In our subsequent moves as a military family, I lost the necklace. I was heartbroken. But, the thought of the gift and our circumstances always leaves me with a sweet and a beautiful memory. Alhamdulillah.

I was awoken by his gentle pat on my shoulder. He was able to get off work by Omaira, Black Board, White Chalk, Canada

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

Ramadan & EiD

Gifts

SHOP NOW u

Greeting cards, kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ramadan calendars, stickers, bookmarks and many more small gifts just arrived at the store!

What was the best gift you received? What made it so special?

s-salamu ‘alaykum. What I’m sharing here was a gesture rather than a physical gift, but it was pivotal to my college experience and I am still grateful for it years later.

My first year in college, I took a while to become an active member of the Muslim scene. My immediate social circle was my dorm friends–except for two brothers from the MSA. One of the peculiarities of campus life at Harvard is that all undergrads are initially housed in the heart of campus, but then get randomly assigned (in blocks of upto eight) to one of Harvard’s dozen residential houses for their sophomore year onwards. When it was time to apply for upperclass housing in the spring, these two brothers (including the husband of one of the ladies posting here, may Allah bless him) chose to cast their lots with my dorm group–even though I wasn’t really that close a friend and they didn’t know most of my dorm group. One of them said that it was because he wanted to live with me (making me feel special), but I realized later that it was to make sure that I would have Muslim company. We ended up getting one of the houses furthest from campus and from the prayer room (an outcome about which they were less than ecstatic), but largely thanks to them the MSA became the most important part of my college experience. Thank you, A and O: I love you guys. by Abdur-Rahman, Dubai, UAE

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

feature Summer Iftar party

Summer Iftar With

Yvonne at myhalalkitchen.com

Hosting a Ramadan iftar? This can be one of the most enjoyable and stressful parts of the month, so we’ve come up with some helpful resources. As this year’s Ramadan falls in the middle of summer (for most of the world), we thought it would be fitting to host a refreshing lemon-themed iftar. It’s the perfect complement to long and hot summer days. Your guests are sure to be impressed by your rustic lemon-themed invites. This theme is carried into the iftar with printable iftar signage and a lemon-themed menu to match.

44 summer 2014 | sakinadesign.com

Menu Main EntrĂŠe Grilled Chicken Breasts with Rosemary & Lemon

sides Lemon Risotto Chilled Zucchini Salad with Citrus Dressing

Drink Strawberry Lemonade

Dessert Lemon Cupcakes

Party Printables Party Invitation Cards Envelope Liner Tent Cards

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

Grilled Chicken Breasts with Rosemary & Lemon recipe at right

46 summer 2014 | sakinadesign.com

Main EntrĂŠe

Grilled Chicken Breasts with Rosemary & Lemon Serves 8 Ingredients 2 teaspoons fine sea salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Â˝ cup extra virgin olive oil Peel of one lemon Juice of one lemon 2 sprigs fresh marjoram (optional) 3-4 sprigs fresh mint 2 large fresh sprigs rosemary or 2 tablespoons dried rosemary and/or more when grilling 4 garlic cloves, sliced lengthwise 4 whole chicken breasts (2 pieces on each one) 1 fresh lemon, sliced Directions 1. In a large bowl, place the olive oil, salt, pepper. Add the lemon peel, lemon juice, marjoram, mint, rosemary and garlic. Add the chicken and mix thoroughly with all the other ingredients. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. 2. When ready to cook, heat the grill or grill pan to high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and remove any remnants of loose herbs, garlic or lemon peel, as these will burn and turn bitter if left on the meat. 3. Bake at 350Âş F for 40 minutes then place on the grill for 10 minutes on each side.

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

sides

Lemon Risotto Italian Arborio rice makes a great addition to any main dish, whether it’s fish, meat or veggies, especially in this creamy version, which is still light enough to be served in summer as a side dish to the Iftar meal. Serves 4-6 Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon butter 1 pound Arborio rice 1/ 2 cup yellow onion, diced 4 cups water Salt Freshly ground black pepper 1/ 3 cup heavy whipping cream Zest of one lemon Directions 1. In a large deep bottom dish, heat the oil and butter over medium flame. 2. Sauté the onions until translucent then add the rice and turn to mix with the oil and onions.

Discover more inspiring recipes from Yvonne’s Summer Ramadan Cooking (2nd Edition):

3. Add one cup of the water and stir with a large spoon. Add the salt and pepper. Allow the water to absorb before adding the next cup and do the same until 4 cups of water have been added. 4. Add the heavy cream and lemon zest and stir very well to combine. Cover and cook for a few minutes before removing from heat. Serve warm with additional lemon zest on top.

10% Off with code src10offsd ends August 15

48 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Lemon Risotto recipe at left

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

sides

Roasted Summer Vegetables with Lemon & Garlic Serves 4 Ingredients 2 pounds patty pan squash and baby zucchini 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/ 2 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/ 8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 3-4 cloves fresh garlic, crushed Zest or rind of one lemon Juice of 1/ 2 lemon 2 sprigs fresh lemon basil 3 sprigs fresh lemon mint or spearmint Directions 1. In a large bowl, place clean and dry squash and zucchini, whole. Add the olive oil, salt and black pepper. Stir to combine and coat the vegetables with the oil. Set aside. 2. Heat an outdoor grill or indoor stove top grill pan with a high flame. Once the grill grates are very hot, gently place each vegetable over the fire or on the grill pan. Do not pour the vegetables on top, otherwise all of the oil will drop down or collect on the sides of the pan. 3. Roast the vegetables for five minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned on each side. Once finished, remove from flame/pan and move to a large serving bowl. 4. Once all of the vegetables have been roasted and are in the serving bowl, add the crushed garlic, grated lemon zest or rind and the lemon juice. Pour in any remaining olive oil, salt and black pepper from the original mixing bowl. Chop up the fresh basil and mint and add to the vegetables, as well. Mix in thoroughly and serve warm. 5. Serve as a side dish to meat and fish or on top of rice, couscous or thin pasta for a perfectly light iftar side dish.

50 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Roasted Summer Vegetables with Lemon & Garlic recipe at left

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

drink

Strawberry Lemonade Yields approximately 6 cups Ingredients 1 cup ice 1 cup frozen strawberries 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 5 large lemons) 2 cups water 2 tablespoons raw cane sugar Fresh mint, for garnish Directions 1. To a large blender, place the ice and frozen strawberries first (this makes it easier for the blades to chop). Add the remaining ingredients and blend on high for about one minute or until mixture is thoroughly combined and the strawberries are fully chopped and smooth. 2. Pour into a large pitcher or individual glasses, garnishing with sprigs of fresh mint. Keep cold if serving at a later time.

sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Vanilla & Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Frosting recipe on next page

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

dessert

Vanilla & Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Frosting cupcakes Yields 24 cupcakes Ingredients 4 eggs 1/ 2 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon emulsion 3/ 4 cup butter, melted 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/ 2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon fresh lemon peels, finely chopped Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350° F. 2. Beat eggs in small bowl then pour in milk and whisk. Next, whisk in vanilla extract or lemon emulsion and then the butter. In a separate bowl, combine flour, ½ cup of the sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

about one minute. Fill cupcake liners about halfway using a ¼ cup measuring cup, and bake for 10 minutes. 5. Let cool on a baking rack for about 10 minutes or until cooled completely before frosting. Lemon Frosting Yields approximately 3 cups Ingredients 2 cups powdered sugar 11/ 2 cups cold butter 1/ 4 cup whole milk 1/ 8 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1/ 2 teaspoon lemon emulsion Directions 1. In a stand mixer combine the powdered sugar and salt. 2. Melt the butter, then let cool.

3. Transfer wet ingredients to stand mixer with paddle attachment.

3. In a stand mixer, add melted butter to the sugar and salt mixture, then whisk on low speed. Add the milk, lemon emulsion and the lemon zest. Whisk for 5 minutes on high.

4. Add dry ingredients ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed. Add the lemon peel and mix until all lumps are smoothed out,

4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before spreading on cupcakes that have been baked and cooled.

54 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

2. Envelope Liner >

< 1. Summer Iftar Invitations

Free

Party Printables Click the follow links to download our printables: 1. Summer Iftar Invitations 2. Envelope Liner < 3. Tent Cards

3. Tent Cards (Use them for food labels, name cards, thank you notes and more!) Download here

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

extra Ramadan & Eid printables

his is the third year we’ll be offering our free Sakina Design Ramadan printables. Over the years, we’ve received so many inspiring stories

from around the world. Stories of how these Ramadan printables were used to make this special month even more special. Please continue to share your stories, they inspire us to continue this annual tradition… RAMADAN MUBARAK to you and your family!

56 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

5 Download

Here 5

5 Download “Ramadan Mubarak”

Flag Banner

Eid

Money Envelopes

5 Download

Here 5

Ramadan Lanterns

“happy eid” Flag Banner

5 Download

Here 5

ramadan/eid 2014 edition | sakinadesign.com

5 Download

Here 5

5 Download “Ramadan Mubarak”

Flag Banner

Eid

Money Envelopes

5 Download

Here 5

58 sakina gift guide | sakinadesign.com

Here 5

Ramadan Lanterns

“happy eid” Flag Banner

5 Download

Here 5

About

Sakina Design Sakina Design is inspired by a passion for Islamic art and culture. While perceptions of Islam have been shaped by images of extremism in the media, we ask if there is something more? At Sakina Design, we see an ancient and diverse civilization stretching from southern Spain to northern China. A faith with a long history of tolerance, multiculturalism, justice and mercy. A society where Muslims, Christians and Jews lived in peace and harmony. It’s a tradition in which art has always played a central role in conveying spirituality, history and heritage. We aim to continue that tradition with gifts, furnishings and décor that reflect the rich spirit of Islamic art from around the world. Guided by ihsan, the Islamic concept of perfection and excellence, we select only materials of the highest quality, promote eco-friendly materials and practices, and give back to the community through donations and volunteering. Our hope? That our unique designs create contemplation and sakina — tranquility -— while offering timeless beauty.

11211 Rogers Road | Corning | NY 14830 | USA 1 714 319 1732 customerservice@sakinadesign.com www.sakinadesign.com