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Candice and Andre’s Sunset Wedding

Posted on March 24, 2017by admin

(Click the link below that says “Candice and Andre’s Sunset Wedding Trailer” to view )

Candice & Andre’s Sunset Wedding Trailer

This is Candice Ramsubag. She is the creative entrepreneur for her brand Fairycakes. This company was started in 2010. Candice designs gourmet cupcakes and desserts. You can find out about her house flavours, specialty flavours and local flavours in cupcakes when you visit the link to her page below. You can also place requests for orders at fairycakestt@gmail.com

Photo Credit : FairyCakes Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/pg/fairycakestt/about/?ref=page_internal

Candice’s significant other is Andre Sinanan. He is the creative entrepreneur designing experiences for his brand Green House Entertainment. This company was established in 2009. Andre offers full service for your next event. You can also keep posted on his themed events and parties which are offered throughout the year by clicking the link below and reaching out to him with your request at greenhouseent@live.com

Photo Credit: Green House Events Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/Green-House-Events-210724222344583/

http://www.greenhouseevent.com/

These two creatives met through Candice’s high school friend Melissa. This matchmaker friend set them up and after about a month of chatting via phone they decided to meet in person. After a few years of courtship the two decided to get hitched!

Candice’s “Aha! He’s the one!” moment

Candice believes that there is no one moment when you know “he’s the one”. In her experience she believes it takes time to realize who you want to build your life with. Also she asserts that being aware that “this is the one” (who I want to build my life with) needs to be a mutual realization.

The Proposal

When this couple realized they found “the one” in each other they decided on “tying the knot”. Marriage would be their next step. Candice had zero anticipation of any proposal since already had plans to get married. But little did she know that her future husband had planned to pop the question at a friend’s birthday party which she had coordinated. Of course she was surprised and undeniably she said “yes”.

The Planning …

Candice and Andre have down to earth personalities. They consider themselves to be a simple and natural couple. They also knew what they wanted which was an outdoor wedding preferably seaside and in their words “with as minimal fluff as possible.”

Theme

They had an idea of what they wanted which morphed into a design concept; a sunset wedding. The sunset theme set the tone for following through with the experience. In Trinidad we have some of the most beautiful sunsets and this helped inspire the bride to choose her colour palette for her wedding featuring hues of yellow, orange, coral pink and magenta.

Photo Credit:Colors of the Sunset

http://colorpalettes.net/tag/colors-of-sunset/

Venue

The venue played a huge part in helping to design the wedding experience. The couple chose The Chaquacabana Beach Resort in Chaguaramas. They were able to capture the sunset theme and views. The experience was further enhanced when the groom arrived via boat. The ceremony took place on the pier over the ocean. The reception took place at the resort’s poolside which was still near the seaside. Candice and Andre did their own set up and layout for the event. They were their own design team and why not?! After all, this dynamic duo lives to create experiences.

Rate on Venue: Candice does not recommend this place.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(The set up for the ceremony on the pier over the water)

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(The layout for the reception near the poolside but still close to he seaside)

Décor

Candice is very big on design. She was the main creative mastermind behind the décor for her wedding. This bride put her own signature touch on her centerpieces which were recycled bottles and candles which she handmade.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

( Centerpieces )

Chris Daniel Studios

(Candles)

Invitations

The couple designed a message in a bottle type of invitation. Andre collected the sand from Maracas Beach and Candice designed and printed the invites. This helped guests to understand and feel what the couple wanted them to experience; a sunset theme with an outdoor and seaside type of vibes.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Invitations- Message in a bottle concept)

Floral

Candice chose fresh flowers for the bridesmaids and flower girls. Kay’s Flower Shop created these simple but stylishly gorgeous bouquets. The bride’s bouquet, flower crown and veil were handmade by local bespoke designer Shaunelle Ramesar.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Fresh Flower Bouquet for Flower Girls & Bridesmaids done by Kay’s Flower Shop)

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Bridal Bouquet was Handmade by Shaunelle Ramesar)

Bridesmaid Dresses

The dresses were designed with the experience they wanted to create and complement the theme and the location. Local designer Rhion Romany designed a two piece resort wear for the bridesmaids. Candice gifted all her bridesmaids with handmade necklaces by local designer Tobye Melissa Gill.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Bridesmaid Dress by Rhion Romany and Custom Necklaces by Tobye Melissa Gill)

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(The flower girls wearing different hues of the sunset)

The Bride’s Attire

Candice wanted a simple wedding dress that reflected her style and that made her feel comfortable. Local designer Adrian Foster customized a two piece ensemble for Candice. The top was hand beaded by Adrian and stands as a one of a kind design. As mentioned before the flower crown and veil were done by Shaunelle Ramesar.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(The Bride’s Outfit by Adrian Foster, Flower Crown, Veil & Bouquet by Shaunelle Ramesar)

The Groom’s Attire

Andre wanted to go for that “classic man” look. The groom wore a custom black and white suit . His look was completed with a pair of sunglasses. The groomsmen wore suits with ties characteristic of the various colours of the sunset.

Photo Credit:Keyon Mitchell

(The groom is the third from the left on his way to meet Candice with his groomsmen via boat)

The Cake

Candice is a cake boss so obviously she designed and crafted her own wedding cake. She created a 4 tier cake that was vertically cut in half. The open face was decorated with flowers.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(The Wedding Cake by Candice)

The Music

Candice and Andre hired a DJ to sound off their sunset wedding party. They contracted DJ Damian Kidd (Candice rates him as the best).

Traditional or New Age Bride

Candice donned away with the tradition of having something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. It is safe to say she was a new age bride for her sunset wedding. Candice wanted to do things differently. She wore sandals for her wedding. Instead of walking down the aisle with her father this funky bohemian bride set her own trends. She danced down the aisle with her father to Alternative Quartet’s version of Machel Montano’s popular song “Fog”. Her bridesmaids also cued in to do their own dance down the aisle but this time to Bunji Garlin’s hit “Differentology”.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(The bridal party getting ready to dance their way down the aisle)

Bride’s Tips

Saying yes to the dress

Candice advises that the “bride to be” should not look around too much because the future bride would fall in love with most of the dresses. Then it would be difficult to ascertain what she truly wants to wear on her big day. She emphasizes the need for the bride to have a vision of what she would like to wear and what would make her feel at her best and happiest. Once you know what you want you can then go design it, find it and or get it customized.

Photo Credit: Marc Jeffrey

(A snapshot of the bride and groom at their one year anniversary photo shoot )

Standing out rather than blending in

This bride says trends are always getting an update in the bridal industry. She encourages future brides to do their research and find pieces that can help them stand out. However, Candice believes once the bride is true to herself only then will she truly stand out. She further states that the choice of items should be characteristic of the bride and groom and represent them. Also Candice considers that the choices should be the ones that make the bride and groom the happiest.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Candice and Andre set their own trends with their sunset wedding theme)

Surviving the Wedding Day

Candice’s tip here is to remind brides that this is their wedding so they should do what they want to do. She asserts that everyone needs to respect, understand and acknowledge this. Candice advises the bride and groom should try to understand that sometimes things happen at your wedding that you have no control over. She shares her mantra of keeping it cool and trying not to turn into a “bridezilla” by repeating the words “it’s okay…it’s okay” and shift one’s focus to their significant other who the bride will be marrying and beginning the rest of her life with.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Candice and Andre exchange their vows)

Happily Ever After

Now that the honeymoon is over this bride gives her two cents on marriage. Her first tip is on communication. She says that neither man nor woman can assume what the other is thinking nor can they know which mood the other may be in. Her advice is for the couple to communicate and talk with each other. She advises wives and husbands against indulging in negative talk about their spouse. If you have something to say about him/her that concerns him/her then discuss it with him/her. Next Candice thinks that your spouse should be your first priority. She advocates for wives to support and build up their husbands. She further mentions spouses should encourage each other to live for each other. Candice further goes on to say that wives will only be as happy as their husbands and vice versa. Then she hits us with her rationale “ Didn’t two just become one?!” and drops the mic.

Photo Credit: Chris Daniel Studios

(Candice and Andre begin their happily ever after)

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Defining Bridal Identities

Posted on March 15, 2017by admin

So folks bridal season is here and there is so much more to being a bride in the world of creative design and planning and the world of the “Bridezillas”. I pray you keep it together and never end up in the Jurassic Park for “Bridezillas” because it is just not a good look for anyone. I have been exposed to weddings over the last six years of my life from assisting wedding planners and sitting in on consultations with couples for Martha Stewart Weddings, creative direction for wedding décor to blogging and even featuring a few wedding designers on my past fashion tours/parties on wheels. Nonetheless, there is something more to a wedding than a well planned event. Some weddings can actually reflect beaming rays of wedded bliss. On that note I have put together a few tips and fun quizzes to help you define your bridal identity and set you on your path to official wedding day plans.

Which type of bride are you?

June is usually promoted as wedding season but not every bride fancies that time of year nor the colour palette suited for that climate and season. In Trinidad we only have two seasons; dry season (December to May) and rainy season (June to November). However, due to global warming our dry season has been a lot cooler than expected this year. Despite this fact you can still work with any of the four seasons; spring, summer, autumn and winter as a colour palette guide to planning your wedding. I am saying this because you have more naturally existing options this way and you can really build a mood board from the inspiration of the season that makes you the happiest. I am a firm believer in colour psychology I have subscribed to it most of my life. Colour almost always makes me feel some type of way. Once you have a season and palette in mind your planning can start to take some direction. Of course your partner is sharing this day with you so both of you should try and gauge some type of middle ground. However, if your fiancé does not mind you choosing what you want then girlfriend go ahead and make your designer moves.

Here is an awesome quiz that can help you identify which type of bride you are. Do the quiz and post your results below. I am ecstatic to find out what you got and to tell you what I got!!!!

http://junebugweddings.com/wedding-blog/quiz-are-you-a-spring-summer-fall-or-winter-bride/

(Photo Credit: www.junebugweddings.com )

Which wedding style best suits your personality?

Most of the weddings I have been to resonate with the bride and groom’s personality. I remember going to my friend’s wedding a few years ago. She had a Hindu wedding ceremony and a modern reception. I truly felt a sense of her personality in every aspect from the colour scheme (burgundy, yellow, white, gold) the music, the bridal wear, the cake, the photography, the food (Asian cuisine), the first dance (mix of modern and Indian dance choreography) and the reception after party (took place in their backyard with rustic signage, park benches, tents and countryside vibes). My friend is warm and bubbly and she has an insatiable appetite for food, hospitality, fun and the countryside. I believe when creating matrimonial spaces the style and vibe of the space is enhanced when the personalities of the bride and groom are captured. I have placed yet another link for a personality to wedding style best fit quiz below. Do the quiz and find your style!

http://junebugweddings.com/wedding-blog/quiz-wedding-style-best-fits-personality/

(Photo Credit: www.junebugweddings.com )

Which destination is your best fit?

Now that you have figured out which type of bride you are and what style best suits your personality perhaps you can work on which destination best fits you and your groom. Let’s try to be a bit inclusive here. We all know some grooms who rather do anything else than sit and be open and explore their inner groom persona (ha ha). It is worth the effort guys as you learn more about yourself and your partner. Destination weddings can cut a chunk out of the hassling,decorating, planning and creating spaces to host your wedding. These destinations are readily available and are naturally gorgeous to suit your wedding style whichever it may be. Nature’s design of seascapes and landscapes are compatible for your themed wedding.

I would always vote Trinidad and Tobago as the premier wedding destination because if you are a spring bride you can find a lovely garden, a summer bride can choose from many sea sides, an autumn bride can choose from forests to lakes to gardens to industrial settings and a winter bride can choose from loads of misty mountain sides. The only thing you will miss is snow. Yet, I assure you there are numerous event planners on the twin island that can get you a snow blower if you really need the snowy special effects. ( I mean we do have an annual ice party during the Carnival season so anything is possible). Darlings once you can dream it there are planners here who will create it for you. Just visit Simone Sant-Ghuran’s, Trinidad Weddings at www.trinidadweddings.com to find out more on the listed vendors there.

I am going to share another quiz with you below to help you determine which destination is the best fit. However, I do not want you to feel daunted if your result is a location out of your budget. I want you to remember that you can use the result as an inspiration for planning your wedding.

http://junebugweddings.com/wedding-blog/find-wedding-destination-perfect-fit/

(Photo Credit: www.junebugweddings.com )

I found all of these quizzes on www.junebugweddings.com curated by Nicole. I am in love with this site as a muse for any bride to be. It is over the top and out of this world. However, I feel there is something for everyone. I especially love that the content is relative to design. I mean even if you are not a bride to be, not even near engaged nor in any relationship it is still useful because of the high design elements. I recommend this site for event planners, persons in fashion or creative design and those who are curious to find out more about the role of design and how it affects our personal spaces and identity. I hope you do find some sort of motivation from my article and that it helps your creative thinking process with respect to bridal planning or even everyday scheduling for your own life and projects. Perhaps in some way it can affect positive change and help you to effect change in others

Soca Smallies Kiddies Carnival Band

Posted on February 15, 2017by admin

The beautiful thing about Trinidad Carnival is that everyone gets to experience part of it. This year I highlight a Kiddies Carnival Band named, “Soca Smallies”. This year their presentation is called “Rainforest Romp.” This band participates in the Junior Parade of the Bands. This is also an all inclusive band as the children are provided with snacks and drinks on the road. The Soca Smallies band invites parents to enjoy this “one day fun day” with their children. Masqueraders meet with the band on Carnival Saturday morning.

Photo Credit: Rachel De Nobriga

This small band is unique because the band leader actually provides a concept and a design for a costume. A detailed list of design instructions and materials will be provided to guests. This means the parent and the child can make the costume together. This gives the parent/child relationship a further boost as they get to create and learn together whilst improving their team building skills and scoring some major relationship goals. Of course if parents are super busy they can always consult the band leader who will refer them to someone who can get the job done!

Registration for “Soca Smallies” takes place at Caboodle on Long Circular Road.

Photo Credit: Rachel De Nobriga

You can find more about them on their Facebook Page at

https://www.facebook.com/Soca-Smallies-Kiddies-Carnival-Band-431704253706779/

You can also call them at 1.868.477.3091

Brian Mac Farlane's Cazabon The Art of Living

Posted on February 9, 2017by admin

In 2017 designer Brian Mac Farlane has taken to his mas camp his plight to advocate to the authorities the restoration of the country’s indigenous heritage and architecture. His presentation this year is called Cazabon: The Art of Living. It is his intention through the designs that he can call to action the “powers that be” to do something to preserve the wealth of the nation’s national heritage particularly the architecture from the artist, Jean Michel Cazabon’s era ( late 1800’s and the early 1900’s). His expectations would materialize in the form of haute couture costumes displayed on persons owning roles from that era in a spectacle bound by a unanimous magnitude of architectural inspiration. This presentation would convene several artisans from costume to fashion designers. Brian Mac Farlane even took under his wing top graduates of The University of Trinidad and Tobago: Caribbean Academy for Fashion and Design.

Voyage de la Mode by Claudia Pegus

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Cazabon’s paintings are colourful and resemble snapshots of the period the artist existed in and its immediate society. The people during that time wore colourful clothing because they were free to do so (post emancipation era). However, the designers took an all white disposition with several shades of white, hues of gold and brown. Since this is art one has to question the artist’s intention and the message he wants to communicate (which one will only know when one asks the creative director because art is subject to multiple interpretation). I am under the impression that these characters are cast in white because they are souls of the people of that time. Cazabon’s art featured stills of life paintings whilst Mac Farlane and his cohort of designers depict this time capsule through creative costume design and movement of haute couture clothed masqueraders.

Monsieur Mille Fleur and Madame Mille Fleur by Brian Mac Farlane

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

The regalia, glitz and glamour of Cazabon’s era via this band were launched at one of the Magnificent Seven buildings late last year. Again highlighting Brian’s fixation with the conservation and restoration of architecture that served its prime during Cazabon’s time. In an interview Mac Farlane was noted for saying that his intention is to use unity to break silence and present splendor, beauty and revelry with a purpose via acknowledging profoundly rich heritage and culture. Designer icons and the local fashion industry’s rising stars occupy the band’s creative cast. Their names include Claudia Pegus, Peter Elias, Dale Angus, Dianne Hunt, Adrian Foster, Heather Jones, Dhisha Moorjani, Fazaad Mohammed, Charu Lochan Dass, Harvey Robertson, Kaleen Sanois and last but not least Brian Mac Farlane.

Le Belle Creole by Peter Elias

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Aristocratic Aura by Heather Jones

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

The sections include names like The White Hall Affair (designed by Adrian Foster), Apna Desh (designed by Dhisha Moorjani), Citizens for Conservation ( designed by Harvey Robertson), Felicity (designed by Charu Lochan Dass), Gang Gang Sarah and Tom (designed by Dale Angus), Messenger of Change (designed by Kaleen Sanois), Le Belle Creole (designed by Peter Elias), Mademoiselle Boissierre (designed by Dianne Hunt), Madame Boissierre (designed by Dianne Hunt), Ministress of Hope (designed by Dianne Hunt), Madame Mille Fleur ( designed by Brian Mac Farlane), Monsieur Mille Fleur (designed by Brian Mac Farlane), The Gate Keepers (designed by Fazaad Mohammed), Aristocratic Aura (designed by Heather Jones) and Voyage de la Mode (designed by Claudia Pegus).

Madame Boissiere by Dianne Hunt

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

The White Hall Affair designed by Adrian Foster is already sold out. The White Hall was formerly owned by Joseph Leon Agostini. Following his death it was then occupied by Robert Henderson and his family. However an account of the interior design, architecture and atmosphere of social events at the White Hall from the author of “The Great Eight”, Mr. Anthony De Verteuil seemed to inspire designer Adrian Foster. He took reference from this 19^th century Edwardian era. He believes that the spirits of Henderson’s guests remained within the walls of the magnificent building. He believes they merged with the Corsican, Moorish architecture forming silhouettes from French style windows and fretwork trimmings to large coral stone pillars that support the structure. He believes their trapped souls continue to roam the hallways and main ballroom as their haunting presence continues to preserve the rich history of time.

Photo Credit: Adrian Foster

The White Hall Affair by Adrian Foster

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane’s Carnival Mas’ Camp

Apna Desh is designed by Dhisha Moorjani of House of Jaipur. The costumes from Apna Desh- Our Land/Our Country reflect the conservative fashion and cultural design of traditional mas. These costumes feature a full collection of ethnic inspired Indian accessories detailed in silver. The female costumes come in several options. These include Sari or Gharara and top (skirt and top). The Apna Desh costumes are investment pieces as they can be worn again at a non Carnival occasion. Dhisha Moorjani (House of Jaipur) states, “It was Brian’s idea to use this theme and I followed the guidelines for colour scheme; beige and sepia tones. I used lots of cotton. In 1886 Cazabon’s painting of Indo Trinidadians was displayed at The Colonial Exhibit in London (renamed politically by Geofferey Maclean “The East Indian Group and The East Indian Women”). It depicted an Indo Trinidadian family; a mother, a father, a daughter. They are seen standing in their thatched roof house. The men are in their Kurta and Dhoti pants and the women in their flowing saris. The costumes for Cazabon The Art of Living feature options of Sari or Gharara which are sewn and easily arranged especially for anyone who never wore a sari. There are lots of silver pieces as accessories to reflect the heavy adornment of their bodies in jewelry. They did not trust banks during that time and converted their gold coins into jewelry.”

Apna Desh by Dhisha Moorjani (House of Jaipur)

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane’s Mas Camp

Citizens for Conservation is designed by Harvey Robertson. He affirms, “The conceptual stages of design and learning about the work of Citizens for Conservation inspired my design. The group is most known for its recent efforts to keep historical architecture alive. The demolition of the Greyfriars Church on Frederick Street in Port of Spain also inspired my designs. This church was built in the 1800’s during the Cazabon era. The materials for this costume consist of 100% cotton with shades of white and hues of brown.”

Greyfriars Church

Photo Credit: Joshua Lue Chee Kong

Citizens For Conservation by Harvey Robertson

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Citizens For Conservation by Harvery Robertson

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Felicity is designed by Charu Lochan Dass for the brand CLD. In her words, “ Felicity is the bringing together a mix of pleasures and stylishness. It depicts both mid 1800’s fashion and the sobering yet intricate Victorian architecture. It exchanges historical extravagance for modern mobility, keeping the traditional trims; gloves and head scarves to bring to life an era so filled with presence and sophistication.”

Felicity by Charu Lochan Dass (CLD)

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Gang Gang Sarah and Tom is designed by Dayle Angus from Tobago. This costume is detailed using lots of natural materials such as cowrie shells to represent the cotton from the silk cotton tree. The designer had a vision for a rugged, strong look for this costume. She collaborated with Dwayne Trim of Mudern Mud in Tobago to include this neutral colour element in her design aesthetic. Designer Dale Angus says ” The whole idea around Cazabon is his representation of all aspects of society during that time period. It translates to what was happening in Tobago at that time, you would’ve seen a rise in the folklore. Gang Gang Sarah is a folklore that originated between the late 1800’s – early 1900’s. When we talk about architecture of that time period and the use of nature, I approached him ( Brian Mac Farlane ) with Gang Gang Sarah. The main focus was the silk cotton tree. The tree stands today in Tobago and it is seen as a historical treasure. “

Gang Gang Sarah and Tom by Dayle Angus

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Messenger of Change is designed by Kaleen Sanois. The battymamzelle or dragonfly is used as the symbol for messenger of change. The base of the costume was inspired by this creature. The designer drew inspiration from common details of colonial houses seen in the lace work and the light weight cottons. Despite being a representation from the Cazabon era more flare was added to the look with gems, piping and gold accents. Designer Kaleen Sanois reiterates, ” The Messenger of Change is the mascot of the band. The message is that we need to come together as a people, to be united and to enjoy the country that is our own, and celebrate what we have left of our culture. Anybody can be The Messenger. I believe we’re all artists in some way and should use our art to promote positive change in any way. The Messenger of Change falls into the Cazabon era as a reminder that we are beautiful and unique people just like the battymamzelle.”

Messenger of Change by Kaleen Sanois

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Mas Camp

The Gatekeepers section is designed by Fazad Mohammed. In his words he describes the characters’ portrayal, “I am majestically unyielding and a grand sight to behold. My magnificence lives on through the traditions that now unfold. I stand guard at the treasure’s place centuries apart, defy me and to this day you shall know my wrath. We defy the ravages time and stand among the chosen few, we are the gatekeepers of the Estates and our presence beckons to you!” – Fazad Mohammed 2016.

The Gate Keepers by Fazad Mohammed

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

He goes on to say that he was always fascinated by the grand opulence of our heritage sites and their presence, which gives people a peek into a period in history that shaped their existence today. The Cazabon era set the tone for inspiring their creations for 2017 carnival and the design team saw it fit to present a collection that reflected the periods fashion and trends as well as stimulate discussion on the preservation of local heritage monuments. Through the portrayal of “The Gatekeepers” Fazad presents a look at the Grand iron and metal designs that adorn the magnificent structures. He also wanted to pay tribute to the men and women that contributed to its preservation. To this day he feels there is a sense of ethereal presence within these structures that stimulates one’s curiosity about life on the other side of the grand gates.

The Gate Keepers by Fazad Mohammed

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

He believes that The Gatekeepers therefore, are those story tellers that brings to life this period in today’s modern world. Furthermore, he asserts that he would like to take the opportunity to celebrate the grand architectural magnificence and craftsmanship of the wrought iron artists. He feels that their creations adorn and protect our heritage estate houses and is a source of great inspiration to our current masterminds and architects. In this collection Fazad confirms that he maintained a strong connection with the actual fine fashionable fabrics of the period, ie cotton, silk, satin, lace and chiffon. He states that the accessories mirrored the opulence of the fine jewelry crafted from pearls, gold and other gems. Fazad feels that the greatest significance is the wire work done by our local craftsmen to tell the story of the grand wrought iron artisans of the period.

The Gate Keepers by Fazad Mohammed

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

If you would like to know more about the presentation of Cazabon: The Art of Living then please review the information below.

Brian Mac Farlane’s mas camp is located at #49 Rosalino Street Woodbrook.

Telephone Contact: (868) 625-8931

Email Address: macfarlanecarnival@gmail.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/macfarlanecarnival/

Website: www.macfarlanemas.com

The Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp is one of the featured stops on my Trinidad Carnival Fashion Tour this Saturday 11th February 2017. If you would like to take the tour then please contact me at letsgotrinidadandtobago@gmail.com

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5 lessons from Heather Jones International

Posted on February 7, 2017by admin

“Heather is a quintessential artist of this millennium representing the transitional era of self-assertion and individuality. Her designs are motivated to make women feel good about themselves, to empower and inspire.

The endless limitation of her work is like a powerful river with countless branches, which develops into outrageous waterfalls. Her work brings a divine blessing to each individual that comes into contact with her designs.

They can imagine the warm tropical nights, cool sensuous days, deliciously soothing waters, the earthly rich flora of orchids and hibiscuses; all woven into the magical loom that Heather creates.”

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

I first met Heather at the first Tobago Fashion Coda (although I do not think she remembers me or that anybody remembers much ha ha except that it was an awesome night!). The committee had just invited persons to indulge in the all inclusive refreshments done by the Tobago Hotel School. There we saw Heather and approached her to say “hello” and extend our congratulations to her on her collection. She was absolutely “down to earth” and so warm in her response to us. This is something I will forever cherish. I also take forward with me in life a few lessons from that moment. The first lesson is no matter who you are and whichever fields you assert yourself in always remember to treat others as you would like to be treated. The second lesson is people will remember you for character. Hence with that being said I am jumping into my Heather Jones Designs International review.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

I grew up hearing and seeing Heather Jones Designs broadcasted on television or glorifying the newspapers (yes I used to read the paper before the advent of online news). My chats with Leasel Rovedas and Omzadd Khan would further reveal that Heather even designed and supplied the Caribbean Airlines uniforms (no wonder our flight attendants look so beautiful). They would further confirm that although people are more conscious of the fashion industry today in Trinidad entrepreneurship still requires a lot of work before results are realized. In one of our discussions we realized that Heather really has accomplished a lot over the decades; working at her craft. It is safe to say her success did not happen overnight and this remains the third lesson I wish to note for my own life.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

Heather Jones achieved the “International Pret a Porter Style Award” for Fashion Week of the Americas in 2002. She went on to win “Woman of Great Esteem Award” from New York’s Woman of Great Esteem Foundation 2005. In 2008 she received the award for “Best Trinidad and Tobago Designer.” Then she achieved “The Chaconia Gold Medal,” a national award from her home country Trinidad and Tobago for her contribution in fashion in 2009. Despite receiving awards it seemed Heather understood that this alone does not translate to “Ah Reach”. This is my fourth lesson from Heather Jones. There are no limits for success only room for improvement and these accolades were only material confessions that Heather Jones was on to something and she needed to listen to her intuition and figure out what’s next for her brand and how can she do this better.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

I must commend Heather’s focus on her art, her strategic planning and execution as Heather Jones Designs catapulted further to become international. Her collections were already being sold in about thirty stores in the U.S.A and were now being showcased on the global map from Asia, Europe to the Mediterranean markets. The highlights of these shows included attending “Me My Mode Show” in Paris in 2012, “Labo Ethnik Fashion and Lifestyle” in Paris in 2014, “The Gallery in Berlin” in 2013, “Japan International Fashion Week”, “Miami Fashion Week”, “Unconventional Wedding District” in Milan and “Mediterranean Fashion Dreams” in Italy. Currently her collections are being sold in Japan and Italy among other destinations. Undoubtedly, Heather Jones has put Trinidad and Tobago on the world map.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

Heather Jones designs Prêt a Porter, Luxury, Resort, Bridal even Monday Wear and Fete Wear. The art of hand painting which she acquired was passed down to her from generation to generation. She aces garment construction and actually learned this from an early age. However, the striking thread that ties Heather Jones Designs International from where she started to the direction she is headed would be the marriage of traditional with contemporary in such a way that her creations are timeless and transitional. Heather Jones is relevant to her target market across many oceans in varying cultures in different age groups. She is cognizant of the trends, styles, colours, designs and fuses that with the uniqueness of her perspective of the Caribbean rather the way she views it. She finishes her designs with authenticity from her signature which is hand painting. Anyone can spot a purchase from Heather Jones Designs International immediately because her aesthetic is so identifiable. Similarly anyone wearing merchandise from Heather Jones Designs International will be easily spotted because her work stands out anywhere and everywhere. Heather Jones Designs International is an iconic brand that captures the essence of Trinidad and Tobago. Our culture is a melting pot of influences. We are a “fusion people”. The designer understands this in fact she is a product of this environment. She is alert to all of this therefore she channels this into her designs and it is inevitable that the finished product encapsulates fusion fashion.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

Notwithstanding, this nation is very fortunate to have someone so valuable, alive and approachable for consultation on the way forward for Trinidad and Tobago’s creative industries. At first glance the average person browsing her collections or viewing a random piece in a magazine or newspaper may not think that this woman, this creative entrepreneur, this iconic designer is so stellar or that she packs all these titles and accolades behind her name. Here is where I take my fifth lesson from Heather Jones. The lesson here is not to build to display but build to “disappear” or “work behind the scenes” to accomplish your life purpose. This is such a paradox as the fashion world is one that requires creating illusions, fostering imagination and brand communication through visual appeal. However, building to disappear and fulfill your purpose rather than building to “show off” can be done and Heather is a prime example of that. She has been building her empire in the fashion world neither for ostentatious, selfish purposes nor for expectations of recognition and status quo but for her life’s purpose. She exercises her will to realize her purpose in life by making the dreams of other women come true when she designs her collections. Her intentions are pure. She makes women feel better, feel empowered and feel inspired to go out into the world and complete their purpose too.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

You can visit her website to preview her collection if you wish to stand out in local designer wear this Trinidad Carnival 2017 at www.heatherjonesinternational.net or visit her facebook page at www.facebook.com/heatherjonesinternational or call her up at 1.868.622.9075 or 1.868.467.9756

Heather Jones Designs International will be on my Carnival Fashion Tour this Saturday 11^th February 2017. Booking for the tour is available and you can send an email to letsgotrinidadandtobago@gmail.com to register.

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The Lost Tribe's Riddim

Posted on February 6, 2017by admin

Before I proceed with my review for The Lost Tribe Carnival 2017 I would like to set the record straight on my thoughts about our Carnival fashion. I want to reiterate that Trinidad Carnival remains a haven for “creatives”. This means there is always room for more design aesthetics, creativity, new directions and new concepts that resonate with or even challenge the traditional ideals. Of course our Carnival fashion is embedded in our history and we owe all of this that we have today; our creativity, our skills, our talents to the foundation that gave the present day mas’ men and mas’ women their jump off into the Carnival scene. There are so many niches in the present and there is still room for more. As “creatives” we are entitled to critically examine art forms but we must not judge and bash each other for being too traditional or too modern because this is Trinidad Carnival. All the different facets of Trinidad Carnival encompass our Carnival fashion landscape and neither is wrong for bringing to fruition their contribution to Trinidad Carnival fashion.

Photo Credit: The Lost Tribe

The Lost Tribe Carnival had its debut in 2016. The Creative Director Valmiki Maharaj and Co – Creative Director Anya Ayoung Chee sought to expound upon a mas that was missing from the Carnival. They felt it was time to deliver the people from the lack of theatre, drama and storytelling on the Carnival road. They intended to bridge a gap between traditional mas and modern day. The Lost Tribe Carnival brands itself as an alternative concept band.This year their presentation awakens the creatives in dance, music and theatre yet again as they bring forth “The Riddim.” The cast of designers include Shawn Dhanraj, JP Richardson, Keegan Simon, Nadya Shah, Shari Cumberbatch, Simon White, Jeri-Lee Alexander & Lauren Baccus and Aaron Schneider. “The Riddim” in my words would describe the sound of Trinidad Carnival.

The Areito Section

Areito is a traditional, Amerindian based prayer ceremony. The female costume includes head piece, bra and bottom piece, full-body chain and backpack. The male costume includes head piece, chest piece, sharwani pants and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura FerreiraPhoto Credit : Laura Ferreira

The Bamboo Section

This section was inspired by the sound of the tamboo bamboo musical instrument and was designed to produce the sound off the moving Bamboo Cathedral. The female costume features head piece, bra and bottom piece, cropped top, hip chain, leggings and backpack. The male costume includes head piece, sleeves, long pants, satchel and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura FerreiraPhoto Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Cutta Section

The Cutta Drum from The Laventille Rhythm Section heavily influences this section of The Riddim. The female costume features hoodie, bra and bottom piece, leggings, bracelets, foot pieces and necklace. The male costume includes turban, dhoti pants, Indian Drum and backpack

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Djun Section

This costume is described as being an inspiration from the “Djun – Djun” drum from the Laventille Rhythm Section. This drum also fits into the category of traditional war drums. The female costume consists of headpiece, whole piece, cuffs, neck piece, necklace, cape and backpack. The male costume consists of headpiece, arm pieces, pants, neck piece, backpack and Djembe Drum.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Dudup Section

This section bears influence from the Dudup pan or as The Lost Tribe considers it; the forefather of the steel pan. The female costume includes head piece, monokini, bangles, neck piece, cape and standards. The male costume includes neck piece, belt, pants, backpack and standard.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Iron Section

This theme has connotations of the first strike, heartbeat and soul of The Laventille Rhythm Section. The female costume entails tiara, bra, monokini, cuffs, collar and backpack. The male costume includes head band, collar, khaki pants, leg pieces and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Jab Section

The Lost Tribe Carnival defines The Jab as a spirit. They believe The Jab is a profoundly dark and inspiring story rooted at the core of local culture. The Jab costume is inspired by the sounds, visualization and movement of the J’Ouvert experience. The female costumes highlight headphone head piece, bra, monokini, Obi belt, bangles and backpack. The male costume showcases headphone head piece, neck piece, joggers, Crix tin, whistle and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

After previewing these costumes I understand and appreciate The Lost Tribe Carnival’s contribution for 2017. I am fully aware that the creative process was carefully planned and executed. The costumes are synchronized with their “behind the scenes” meanings and relate to the design production. This is a revolution in Trinidad Carnival fashion and it is coherent. Their efforts to introduce theatre, drama, and storytelling are on point. There is zero mismatching of concept to creation. The cast of designers under the stewardship of the creative directors has managed to capture their stories in the essence of the costume design. However, this does not stop here as this group used the modern day facilities and technologies to make their impact and etch their brand identity in the hearts and minds of all who are interested in being part of their tribe. You can contact The Lost Tribe Carnival at 2017.losttribecarnival.com or you can take my Carnival Fashion tour which will be offered this Saturday 11^th February 2017 to learn more.

In closing my words of advice for the creative community and the spectators of Carnival Fashion are, “Embrace who we are and the bigger picture of what we are and the direction for Trinidad Carnival rather the greater vision for Trinidad Carnival, respect each others work, focus on the task at hand, at “getting it done” and to consistently and continuously work together because united we will stand and divided we will fall.”

Big People and Big Words: Sustainable Tourism Development

Posted on January 5, 2017by admin

Sustainable is a “big word” people throw around when they want to show that they have some weight or they like to play they “BIG” and play they know “big words”. Indeed this is a “big” word because it has a lot of weight to it. It carries so much responsibility by all the stakeholders involved in tourism in small island developing states such as Trinidad and Tobago. It warrants them to guard their initiatives and development of them with this word in mind. Sustainable tourism development can be defined as “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities,” (“Sustainable Tourism .:. Sustainable Development Knowledge Platform”). Destination gate keepers who are ill informed or unconcerned about this topic can lead to a destination’s demise. This type of attitude can also act as a catalyst to propel and ensure there is a continuum for the end result of an obliterated destination where there is literally zero restoration or rejuvenation in the tourism life cycle.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization has identified twelve principles that guide the sustainable tourism development (GRID-Arendal). They can be surmised as

Economic Viability
Local Prosperity
Employment Quality
Social Equity
Visitor Fulfillment
Local Control
Community Wellbeing
Cultural Richness
Physical Integrity
Biological Diversity
Resource Efficiency
Environmental Purity

Some of you may know in depth what these terms mean and some of you have taken them for granted whilst some of you have twisted it for your own meaning. Hence the ease at which some people can throw around the words sustainable development. I will not divulge further as you can do yourself the favour and read more about this in your own research efforts.

My research has taken me to use initiatives to develop and promote creative tourism. This type of tourism can be defined as, “Tourism which offers visitors the opportunity to develop their creative potential through active participation in courses and learning experiences, which are characteristic of the holiday destination where they are taken,” Crispin Raymond and Greg Richards, 2000 (Network). My first initiatives in creative tourism focus on fashion tours. I have chosen this path because I am passionate about making a difference in my country by effecting change through a channel such as this one. Moreover as a sole proprietor in this niche I believe I can set the standards and revise them as often as it needs to be. I think stakeholders can pause for a cause that concerns all of us. There is a greater urgency now at a time when our very minds, skills, abilities, resources and networks can aid the diversification that the country so desperately needs.

There are many opportunities for sustainable action in each tourism sector. When I first did my plans for these fashion tours some persons who were guiding me believed that tours should be standardized and commercialized. My background in tourism academia, my travel experiences as a fashion and shopping tourist and my desire to be unique skewed my perspective. I have held my ground and I will continue to do so. There is a new tourist who wants more. This tourist falls in my target market. My tours are more than just packages. Albeit lots of planning goes into every tour I agree to some level of standardization but not too much as this can ruin the authenticity and natural fabric of organic flows and intangible things that take place on tour.

My groups engage in learning about creative design, culture and history specific to Trinidad. The entire process is participatory and fun! The designers are screened and selected based on originality, production of their materials and their contributions to society. I employ external stakeholders who I rotate so that I collaborate with different persons from designers, photographers, guides, drivers, hoteliers and hosts. Of course the quality of their work and working relationships are also evaluated. Moreover, there is something called the multiplier effect which means something more to me. It means as much as I can employ locals they will spend into society and the money can trickle down due to these linkages. Most of my marketing is done digitally to reduce waste. I map my routes carefully to reduce carbon footprint. All my designers benefit from increased brand visibility because this venture has the people, the makers and the creators in this destination closest to its heart. I make it my business to show and tell their stories in anticipation of helping them to carry on their brand legacy.

This initiative is twofold because as I welcome the tourists to an unlocked designer haven where they can purchase specially designed and crafted clothing even ethical pieces they take back a piece of the destination with them. When creatives make something and the tourist purchases it they are taking away a part of that creative with them. The creative’s soul, heart, the design process, the production and the finishing touches are all gifted in that one purchase. They have an investment and a memory that can last a lifetime. Tourists establish relationships with others on tour as well as with designers. There is a huge potential for increasing brand loyalty and sales. They support a livelihood by purchasing from these designers who are mostly small businesses.

Overall, the role of sustainable development in tourism is a big deal. Failure to take heed of the principles of sustainable tourism development can lead to infinite disadvantages. These include but are not limited to pollution and destruction of environment, limited value added products and experiences, low employment, control of wealth and income, no local consultation hence foreign decision making, leakage of expenditure, concentration of development in local travel and tourism, little to no transparency and accountability in destination over foreign exchange earnings, unstable markets, over commercialized packages, all inclusive markets which only allow for money to stay within certain pockets of society, control of access to certain properties and attractions and solicitation of illegal activities and lifestyles (“Tourism Development: Outline of Advantages and Disadvantages”).

Wind turbines seen as a blot on the landscape by motorists who don't notice the impact of the motorway. — Wind turbines seen as a blot on the landscape by motorists who don’t notice the impact of the motorway.

Undoubtedly, I am an advocate for positive change in my country and if I can make an effort so can you. I am committed to improving sustainable development of tourism in my destination in whichever that I can. If you are visiting Trinidad and Tobago soon or if you are a stakeholder or even a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago I am sure you can think of some way in which you can contribute. You do not need to be Mr. Big Stuff or use “BIG WORDS” to make a difference. Your action does not have to be grand and glamorous you can start with something very simple. If we all make one single step to positive change in the direction of sustainable tourism development the end result will undeniably be colossal.

Resources

GRID-Arendal. GRID-Arendal – activities – sustainable tourism – background. 2014. Web. 5 Jan. 2017.

Network, Creative Tourism. About the creative tourism. 2012. Web. 5 Jan. 2017.

“Sustainable tourism .:. Sustainable development knowledge platform.” 1 June 2014. Web. 5 Jan. 2017.

“Tourism development: Outline of advantages and disadvantages.” n.d. Web. 5 Jan. 2017.

‘An Evening Of Healing With Music – Vol. I’ Offers A Holiday Gift Of Musical Healing For The Soul

Posted on December 21, 2016by admin

‘An Evening Of Healing With Music – Vol. I’ Offers A Holiday Gift Of Musical Healing For The Soul

Estuary PR Launches A Cultural Studies Initiative To Nurture Care In Communities

Musician, cultural practitioner and educator, Z4L4, uses sacred music and performance art to move his audiences to change at a recent commemorative performance for the 2016 World AIDS Day, Performance Art Towards a Model of Village Care, at the UWI St. Augustine campus’ School of Education Auditorium. Photo courtesy TriniView.com.

December 21, 2016 – St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago… On Wednesday December 28, 2016, lovers of music and the arts are invited to experience stirring classical, jazz, soul, blues and Caribbean spirituals at An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I. This fundraising concert aims to foster well-being through music that nurtures the soul while shining a light on issues related to the care of Trinidad and Tobago’s aging and ailing population. An eclectic cast including Ken ‘Professor’ Philmore, Z4L4, John Michael Thomas & Friends, Tsahai Koo and Imani Miller-Sorzano will entertain from 6:30 p.m. at the Our Lady of Fatima Church Hall, Bushe Street, Curepe.

Cultural Studies lecturer, Z4L4, engages his audience as he discusses an alternative approach to caring for HIV/AIDS patients, the Tobago Yard model, with moderator, award-winning Jamaican poet and author, Lesley-Ann Wanliss, during the performance art event, Performance Art Towards a Model of Village Care. Photo courtesy TriniView.com.

Following recent experiences with caring for a loved one, estuary PR’s Managing Director, Liza Miller, identified an urgent need to create a platform for promoting care, empathy, compassion, kindness and love. “We often take the simple things in life for granted such as our wondrous ability to breathe. Everyday thousands of people suffer from lifelong ailments that compromise their ability to do basic daily functions as well as their quality of life. There are so many broken members of our society. How are we taking care of these neglected people who line our hospital emergency wards as they watch life’s clock tick?” questioned Miller.

Internationally renowned steel pan and jazz icon, Ken ‘Professor’ Philmore, ignites his audience as he delivers a passionate performance. Photo courtesy Ken ‘Professor’ Philmore.

This fundraising series was conceptualised as a quarterly production, which will raise funds for various beneficiaries who face the trials of sustaining spiritual, emotional and physical well-being in the face of managing medical challenges. The inaugural concert, An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I, brings a diverse cast of performers in terms of age and talent together to address the indiscriminate nature of aging and illness. In reflecting on the concept, Miller shared, “Aging and illness care not for one’s age, race, class, profession nor nationality. These are experiences that impact not only those aging and ill but also their loved ones and caregivers. Who is caring for the caregivers? What little can each of us do to nurture caring?”

Charismatic vocalist, John Michael Thomas, will lend his talents to deliver a powerful performance at An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol I. Photo courtesy John Michael Thomas.

An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I offers music to soothe the soul in benefit of Martica Thomas’ medical care. Tickets cost $100.00 and are available at the Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic (RC) Church office and from estuary PR. For more information, join the Facebook (FB) event at bit.ly/HealWithMusic or connect on FB, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat @estuaryPR and @Z4L4Music or email liza@estuaryPR.com or call (868) 367-5295.

WHAT: An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I

WHO: estuary PR in collaboration with Z4L4

WHEN: Wednesday December 28, 2016 at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Our Lady of Fatima RC Church Hall, Bushe Street, Curepe

TICKETS: $100.00

Our Lady of Fatima RC Church office – (868) 662-5203

estuary PR – (868) 367-5295

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Liza Miller, Managing Director

estuary PR Limited

p: (868) 367-5295

e: liza@estuaryPR.com

www.estuaryPR.com

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Eastern Fusion Fashion in Trinidad

Posted on November 1, 2016by admin

Fashion has always been a way for one to express oneself and make a statement about one’s identity without saying a word. It is more profound than surface appeal to increase one’s attractiveness. It delves with a psychology of colours as each colour has its own meaning. Similarly each fabric whether silk or cotton attracts particular vibrations and energies. When the Indians arrived to Trinidad they brought their customs and their ways of dressing. Some of those remain inherent in the styles of Trinidadian styling today. Silver toe rings were worn in pairs on the second toe of each foot on a woman. It is said that this custom had certain reproductive health benefits for the woman. Also it was insisted that the ring ought to be silver to better absorb energies from the earth that would pass through the body and refresh the being wearing the toe ring. Bangles were cited as having benefits of keeping energy in the body and helping women with blood circulation. Nose rings were marked for benefits of reducing pain when the married woman goes into labour. It is believed that the nose ring would connect with a nerve that runs through that part of the body.

Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/212584044881223568/

Of course there is a glaring difference in perception of colour by persons in the Western world versus persons in the Eastern parts like India and Pakistan. We live in modern day Trinidad, an island in the Western Hemisphere juxtapose to Eastern and Western influences. This makes our culture and fashion even more vibrant and dynamic. Our creatives steadily made their move in fusion fashion. Local “fashionpreneurs” who recognized the importance of ethnicity to our culture (even those who have an affinity for East meets West trends) picked up the pace to fill the gaps and deliver fashion tailored to anyone interested in the Eastern Fusion Fashion niche in Trinidad. They identified fabrics, materials, tones and trends with the Trinidadian in mind and created looks that suited the Caribbean woman. The top local Eastern Fusion Fashion designer brands are House of Jaipur, Neha Karina and Aiela Fashions.

Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/Achkemus/hatecopy/

Photo Credit: http://instaliga.com/ru/hatecopy?page=1089952981849780449_2120555&loadCount=2

House of Jaipur is owned by Dhisha Moorjani. She was born to Indian parentage and raised in an Indian home in Trinidad. After her parents passed she devoted her love for them into the brand House of Jaipur. She converted her parents’ home into a beautiful boutique that offers persons the chance to experience Indian lifestyle and culture. She has several Indian fashion fusion lines, luxury resort wear, festival wear and modern Indian wear that she designed herself. There is a tea room for persons to gorge on Indian delicacies and sip from a chai bar. She also curates lifestyle pieces at her store so you can take away not only memories but a piece of the House of Jaipur experience with you. House of Jaipur located at #14 O’Connor Street Woodbrook was recently renovated and has been transformed even more to entertain and excite your senses when you visit!

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/houseofjaipur/?fref=ts

Neha Karina, the brand is very versatile. It is owned by Neha Dawar who is from India . She is of mixed parentage Trinidadian and Indian. Neha lives in Trinidad now. She has also completed her studies in India, Dubai and locally at The Caribbean Academy for Fashion and Design. Neha has an online fashion and beauty series called Coffee and Lipstick. She is also a stylist and marketing consultant. This designer focuses on youthful ethnic bridal wear, festival wear as well as contemporary wear. You are almost guaranteed to find a striking statement piece in her store and I dare you not to leave without it. Persons can also collaborate with Neha and book a custom fitting for a style they may be interested in wearing. She also stocks stationery and a few lifestyle pieces for those interested. Neha Karina is located at Hilton Hotel in Trinidad.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Last but not least is ethnic designer, Sharmila Maharaj. Affectionately called Mila this designer is also a trained aesthetician, Mehendi artist and beauty expert. Born to a Brazilian mother and a Trinidadian father she grew up with two cultures. The Trinidadian community she grew up in and quality time with her friends from the East played huge roles in sculpting Mila’s attraction to the Eastern world. She is an avid jet setter and immerses herself in whichever culture and demographic that she interacts with. It is therefore no surprise to me that her journey in life has taken her creative soul on this path to create a supply of ethnic “athleisure” and contemporary ethnic fusion wear for the demand that is needed in Trinidad. She is the first person in Trinidad to create an athletic leisure “athleisure” hijab. She has also taken note of what is fashionably trending globally and used appropriate forecasting for her local debut. Her recent collection boasted of scarves, maxi shirt dresses and funky Samosa pants just to name a few. Her clothing can be described as exclusively modest and reasonably priced. Mila’s boutique is based in Central Trinidad. You can browse her boutique collection online and discover a whole new world of fashionable clothing and accessories that have been awaiting your arrival all this time.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/aielafashion/

So folks if you did not know where to get your Eastern Fusion Fashion vibes now you do!

May the positive energies from these pieces find a way to your closet!!!

May the designers continue to ignite the souls of you and others with their passion and creativity!

Rain Fall Fashion – Jessel Brizan

Posted on October 25, 2016by admin

Unlike other destinations Trinidad does not have all four seasons to keep up with the seasons of fashion. We have two seasons and they include the dry season and the rainy season. Of course we have a festival culture due to the magnanimous support of varying cultures sporadically dispersed throughout the length and breadth of the country. One may find that we have lots of themes at different times of the year such as bridal, avant garde, ethnic, western, contemporary, resort, business and swim wear. Today I want to highlight one designer who is definitely keeping it real this rainy season. His name is Jessel Brizan and he owns several design lines. He is a former lecturer in fashion at The Caribbean Academy of Fashion and Design at The University of Trinidad and Tobago. He is also the curator for Blue Basin Department Stores. At this store he curates clothing and accessories from local fashion designers and creative entrepreneurs who are in keeping with his standards for ethics and integrity in fashion.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/JesselBrizanDesignGroup/

At Blue Basin Stores you can find unisex wear. The design aesthetic of his design labels are reflected throughout his store concept and the products. The identity of the brand is easily distinguishable. There is a true sense of Caribbean lifestyle reverberated in his brand that is unparalleled. This rainy season he has crafted and curated staple pieces that every fashionisto/fashionista ought to have in their closet. His clothing is not only durable but timeless. Hence purchase of a Jessel Brizan Design is a guaranteed investment for life. Time, effort and enough research has gone into the production of his pieces to carefully suit the season and the target client. This is why I say you will be rushing off to get your hands on his designs to wear it immediately until I believe you may get so addicted they earn their own space at the forefront of your closet.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/JesselBrizanDesignGroup/

Unfortunately, I cannot show you everything from his clothing collections but I can definitely sneak you a peek so you can go do your own style stalking when you make the free time to do so. You must also know that the days for stealing your boyfriend’s jackets, shirts, pants, beanies and wearing them are over. Ladies now you can buy your own pieces and watch out for your guy friends who just may take a “long term” borrow. When you purchase a Jessel Brizan Design you discover that finesse is in the tailoring and the feel of the fabric. The quintessence is in the complete style profile on the person who wears them well. At Blue Basin Stores you can ask about mix and match options that suit you best.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/JesselBrizanDesignGroup/

Some of us are extremely fashion conscious and things that mass consumers consider trivial are actually important for the Jessel Brizan Design Group. The curator has been careful to exclude designs that are unethical. There are eco bracelets at Blue Basin Stores made out of glass that has been recycled into glass beads and completed with tassels in honour of the leather back turtles that frequent the shores of Trinidad. The Turtle Warrior bracelet is a reminder to clean up the beaches and save the turtles that come to shore for nesting. Other concerns such as child labour and exploitation are void from occurrence at this establishment. Designs are kept original and every effort is made to reduce mass consumption and high wastage. You can rest assured the Jessel Brizan Design Group’s collection whether handbags, belts, cardigans or wristbands is an aesthetically attractive, safe, rare and reasonably priced designer addition to your closet.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/JesselBrizanDesignGroup/

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