The Sophisticated Destination Bride by Charu Lochan Dass

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Destination brides have bridal identities too! Just because the bride is having a destination wedding does not always mean that she will be clad in typical resort wear of typical materials and shades of white.  Obvious images that grace the cover of some wedding magazine or cover story with exclusive photos of the random celebrity and her destination wedding in her common tropical inspired wedding dress comes to mind .  However stop for a minute or two and recollect that under this façade is a living person who has likes and dislikes, who has their own culture and experiences which have played a huge part in forming their identity (apart from their parents’ DNA). Now that you know this information think of the identities in your girls squad or circle or whatever you all call it these days. Are the identities as colourful as a rainbow? Can you find the tomboy, the girly girl, the hippie, the feminist, the “bourgeoisie” ? If the answer is yes then you can understand my train of thought.  Simply, brides have identities. Although destination weddings may allot some restrictions to brides in terms of choice of materials for climate this does not exempt the destination bride from having a bridal identity. Charu Lochan Dass is a designer based in Trinidad and Tobago. CLD is the name of her fashion house. She creates clothing inspired by women and her niche caters to their distinct identities. Undeniably, she will be featured here because of her unsurpassed empathy for identities as it relates to the destination bride.

Charu Lochan Dass was born in India and brought to Trinidad to live at an early age of six years. She grew up in Trinidad for some formative years of her life and later returned to India to pursue her studies in Business Administration. She left India again to study Fashion Design and Marketing at London College of Fashion. This decision to change fields was not the result of an overnight epiphany. Charu was exposed to creative thinking and creative design as a child. She developed a flair for the artsy field. In her teen years she converted her mother’s intricate Indian hand woven table runner into a belt. Moreover, Charu  spent some time with one of her aunts in India who operated a fashion boutique. Charu would take her ability to sketch designs there and bring them to life via execution of the design plans. When she returned to Trinidad she would start up her retail boutique. Yet, she would not stop there she was always at the grind designing and launching collections. Finally CLD the atelier was launched at #55 Gallus Street Woodbrook in Trinidad. CLD made its debut and its contribution to the local landscape then it began its journey to take over the fashion globe. The designer’s aesthetic had such a worldly appeal that the brand has stamped its name in fashion markets as far as Amsterdam and Spain ( sold exclusively at BoutiKm5 in Ibiza). Charu’s inspiration comes from almost anything that moves her soul. Nonetheless, the CLD brand exudes sophistication, elegance, poise, sensuality, feminine wiles and characteristics that accentuate the silhouette of the woman. Charu’s collections range from prêt a porter, bridal to resort. Often the fabrics Charu work with for these collections are silk, lace, chiffon and georgette to name a few. These types of materials allow for the movement of the clothing. Her designs come alive and sway with the wind and movement of the woman.

CLD’s recent collection is great for the destination bride who associates herself with that sophisticated bridal identity.  This destination bride does not need to hassle herself with bridal attire. If I were to describe this type of bride I would say she maintains a bridal identity that is a paradox. Her sophistication is fierce yet charming. This equates adjectives for the modern day woman who is also a destination bride. Her wedding and wedding moon pieces can be found at CLD. She can even go ahead and postpone her “bridezilla” coronation and opt for the “bridechilla” role and become the queen of “bridechilla” village with this new solution. The bridal resort collection strikes a chord with grace and empowerment. Destination brides can embrace a collection that features minimal patterns, bell bottom pant suits, peplum tops, capes, A-line, sheath and trumpet silhouettes which are flattering for most body shapes. Inherent to this collection are signature CLD details that highlight Charu’s exposure to creative culture. In addition CLD launched “Satya” an Indo fusion fashion collection for the modern woman. The timing is perfect as brides can find more variety to add to their bridal wardrobe and resort collection!! Notwithstanding, CLD also offers seamstress services  for destination brides who need a few adjustments to their choices. The cuts and styles work well for the bride hosting her destination wedding in Trinidad and Tobago. Albeit the destination bride can also work with the designer with her own design in mind and together they can bring this idea to a reality.  The decision to choose CLD would be a consequence of wise investment thinking as these designs are high quality, unique yet functional.

The CLD brand is powerful. It transcends epochs and stands out as the epitome of the new age destination bride. Women of any colour, social class, culture and background who identify with the caricature of the sophisticated woman can wear CLD.  Charu understands the women who are future destination brides, bridal party members and guests. She connects with them through these designs. In addition, Charu recently tied the knot and is living the wedded life so she has more experience and perspective to add to her destination bridal design etiquette and fervor. The bridal party and guests can also benefit from choosing CLD, the bride’s new found designer binge. Everyone can browse through the many resort and prêt a porter collection from CLD to put together their attire. Their one of a kind outfit would definitely stand out. They would be taking a labour of love with them when they return to their host country. The versatility of the pieces would allow them to wear these clothing for several other occasions. The wearer does not have to worry about looking out of place or being over dramatic as these designs were created with the woman in mind and it resonates with trends that ensure a global appeal.

Fashion designers in Trinidad and Tobago do not mass produce as the major fashion houses in other fashion destinations. Hence, when the destination bride chooses a local designer such as CLD she can bet that she will be helping to support small micro economic enterprises, diversifying the destination’s economy (via sales), distributing a multiplier effect  and circulation of dollars in that economy, diversification of the local tourism product. At the same time she gets to experience the creative process and by product of creative thinking and design that is handmade, created from the depth of the artisan’s soul , curated with individual aesthetic and customized with love just for her.  The dynamics, rationale and advantages of buying local for a destination bride are undisputed and outstanding.  So whether the bride is planning for her betrothal, destination wedding or wedding moon CLD is brand she should consider looking up and scheduling a bridal consultation for herself and her girl squad. When all goes well she can enlist the brand at her bridal shower or in her wedding invitation for the attendees to also sneak a peek at CLD’s designs and make their own preparations. Finally, this would ease some of the drama out of the bride’s life and she can breathe a sigh of relief whilst checking off these items from her wedding list.

Contact CLD here

Instagram

www.instagram.com/charulochandass

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/charulochandass/

Phone

1.868.222.5789

Email

charulochandass@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

5 lessons from Heather Jones International

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“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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

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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.

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Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

dress-with-wrapPhoto 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.

heather-hand-paintedPhoto Credit: Heather Jones International

hj-resort-dressPhoto 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.

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Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

resort-heatherPhoto 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 11th 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

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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.

riddim-v2-1-2-finalPhoto 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.

arieto

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreiraarieto-malePhoto 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.

bamboo-female

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreirabamboo-malePhoto 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

 cutta-female

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira cutta-male

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.

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Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira djun-malePhoto 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.

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Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira dudup-malePhoto 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.

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Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira iron-malePhoto 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.

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Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira jab-malePhoto 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 11th 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

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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.

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

  1. Economic Viability
  2. Local Prosperity
  3. Employment Quality
  4. Social Equity
  5. Visitor Fulfillment
  6. Local Control
  7. Community Wellbeing
  8. Cultural Richness
  9. Physical Integrity
  10. Biological Diversity
  11. Resource Efficiency
  12. 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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”).

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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.

 

 

 

 

No Room for Cultural Appropriation – The Hakka Express

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When discussions of food takes place Trinbagonian people in particular become quite passionate. It is such a touchy subject (no pun intended). People often get quite intimate to describe their love affair with their favourite food, their detrimental journey fasting from it, their lack of behavior when gorging on their delectable treats. Some people get so extreme you can immediately visualize them as movie character Smeagol to Gollum hoarding their food and screeching, “my precious”. Jeez people take it down a notch! Okay I am just kidding it is your life to live after all and not mine! But do not  take for granted your luck to be born in a multicultural nation, Trinidad and Tobago. There are so many variations of ethnic food in this country yet little to zero discrimination or offense taken from preparation, cooking or consumption in comparison to other nations. This is why I say there is no room for cultural appropriation but cultural appreciation for Hakka as even this type of food can be embraced in the safest haven for culture in the Caribbean and possibly the world.

hakka outside

(Photo Credit: Hakka Facebook)

My first experience with Hakka cuisine took place a few months ago at The Shoppes of Maraval branch. Now if you are familiar with The Shoppes of Maraval you will understand how challenging it is to choose somewhere to dine as there are so many options and so little parking at peak “hungry man/woman” hours. Nonetheless, The Hakka Express is fairly new there so if you are one of those persons who likes to try new cuisine you may more than likely be motivated to try Hakka unless you are pulled down by the centre of gravity to buy your same old lunch time special. Perhaps you are more like me and leave The Shoppes of Maraval with purchases from Hakka and another food outlet.

hakka

(Photo Credit: Hakka Facebook )

Regardless, I chose Hakka because I fell for their history of origin story. It is said that over a hundred years ago a tribe of Chinese persons called the Hakka people travelled to Calcutta, India and settled in a village called Tangra. It was there that the fusion of traditional Chinese cuisine, Indian spices and Indian ingredients began to take place and the Hakka food was born. The graphic design for the Hakka Express logo is electrifying and bold boasting of the strength of the people, the warmth of their service and the fiery blends of their gastronomy that hit your palate with a tasty yet feisty kick. I chose spicy noodles, deep fried chili eggplant and peppery shrimp (not the actual names of the food ). The service was impeccable and the prices were reasonable if you decide to go with a two portion combo or any of the combos. However, if you are feeling to splash the cash a bit more then you will discover that the entire menu is your playground to do just that. Overall, The Hakka Express maintained a clean, friendly and safe ambience great for their target market of walk ins with kids, families, couples and friends. Usually, they are open every day from 11 a.m.

hakka food

(Photo Credit: Hakka Facebook)

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(Photo Credit: S3Mini ) (Noodles, Eggplant and Shrimp)

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(Photo Credit: S3Mini) (Hakka Express Take Away Box)

If you would like to find out more about The Hakka Express see below.

https://www.facebook.com/Hakka-Restaurant-Bar-307368162647835/home

http://hakkarestaurant.com/

 

 

International Celebrity Beauty Expert, Neema Ali, Searches For The Caribbean’s Next Millennial Makeup Artists

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KNF 1International celebrity beauty expert, Neema Ali of Kreating New Faces.

May 24, 2016 – Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago… In a bold move to expand the US-based celebrity brand, Kreating New Faces (KNF), throughout the Caribbean, renowned makeup artist, Neema Ali, will host a Trinidad and Tobago casting for makeup artists. The twin-island’s entertainment, film, fashion, music and creative fraternities will soon welcome its newest elite member with the fast-approaching launch of the award-winning KNF. The first round of castings will take place on Saturday May 28, 2016 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the brow and makeup salon, Ultimate Beauty Queen.

KNF 2Ali’s flawless finish on author and speaker, Lakia “LB” Brandenburg aka “The Wife Coach”, at a March 2016 promotional photo shoot. Photo courtesy Lakia Brandenburg.

The makeup artist, male groomer, stylist, image consultant, educator, motivational speaker and life and wellness coach eagerly shared, “I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise to impart. I look forward to nurturing a cadre of trustworthy, business savvy, talented and highly creative professionals who deliver the highest standards in service while using beauty to create platforms for self-love, self-worth and appreciation.”

KNF 3Ali does on-set makeup application for calypsonian, Karene Asche, at a recent photo shoot. Photo courtesy estuary PR.

KNF 4Ali attends to every detail on-set at a recent photo shoot with Dr. Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool. Photo courtesy estuary PR.

With over 20 years of experience consulting in the beauty industry in the United States of America (USA), Ali has amassed an extensive résumé of accomplishments. Most notably, through the Teknique Group, she was the on-set makeup artist and hair stylist for five seasons spanning three years of the number one hit reality TV series, VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: New York and Atlanta. During this time, Ali’s celebrity looks were known to go viral with widespread recreation of makeup by fans globally.

Ali’s TV accolades also include makeup artistry for Dr. Heavenly Kimes during Season 3 of Bravo’s Married to Medicine. She also executed on-set makeup for Season 1 of VH1’s Gossip Game and on-camera makeup for Tasha Marbury during Season 5 of VH1’s Basketball Wives. Her glamourous makeup artistry has been sought out by a host of celebrities for red carpet events including TV One’s Jennifer Williams for the 2016 NAACP Image Awards; actress Garcelle Beauvais for the 2015 ESSENCE Festival; and poet Erica Mena for the 2014 BET Hip Hop Awards. Other red carpet credentials include a glamour suite for the 2014 BET Awards.

KNF 5Male grooming behind the scenes with Ali and calypsonian, Chucky Gordon, at a recent photo shoot. Photo courtesy estuary PR.

Ali’s flawless finishes can also be seen in promotional photos for TV One’s Here We Go Again and the movie, Dead Beat Dad Rehab 2. In former years, Ali executed runway makeup for the Season 11 Finale of Project Runway during New York Fashion Week 2013. That same year, she did a three-city tour with international cosmetics brand, Cover Girl, for Taylor Swift. Ali launched her career in the world of beauty as one of MAC Cosmetics east coast Operations Managers in the USA.

Makeup artists interested in mentoring under Ali are invited to attend the first round of castings where they will be required to create their best look in twenty minutes. All applicants are asked to walk with their makeup kits, a model for creating their look and a résumé. There is a registration fee of TT $350.00 per applicant. For more information, join the Facebook (FB) event at http://x2t.com/KreatingNewFacesTTCasting or connect with KNF on IG @kreatingnewfaces or email kreatingnewfaces@gmail.com. Connect with Neema Ali on IG and Twitter @iamneemaali. To book Neema Ali, contact Liza Miller of estuary PR at liza@estuaryPR.com or (868) 367-5295.

 

WHAT:                      Kreating New Faces TT Makeup Artist Casting – Round 1

WHO:                                    Celebrity makeup artist, Neema Ali, of Kreating New Faces

WHEN:                     Saturday May 28, 2016 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

WHERE:                  Ultimate Beauty Queen, Suite 25, A&A Mall, Charlotte Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad and              Tobago

REGISTRATION:   TT $350.00. Walk with makeup kits, a model for creating one look and an up-to-date résumé.

KNF 6Ali applies last minute touches as she prepares Lord Superior on the set of a recent photo shoot. Photo courtesy estuary PR.

 

For booking and media inquiries, please contact:

Liza Miller, Managing Director

estuary PR Limited

Phone: (868) 367-5295 / (868) 761-1195

Email: liza@estuaryPR.com

www.estuaryPR.com

The Best Weekend Ever is Not Coachella

Posted on by admin

The world over is getting ready for The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Annual Festival (affectionately called Coachella). It is held at the Coachella Valley in the Colorado Desert. It is the most talked about event for spring breakers, hippies, wannabe hippies, cultural/art enthusiasts and celebrities. It’s a time when Spring fashion trends come out of their hiatus to thrill the gawking fashionistas and stylists with inspiration. If you have no idea what I am talking about perhaps you recall North West’s first birthday bash. She enjoyed a Coachella themed party hosted by the Kardashian tribe.

kidchella

Perhaps you remember these photos of Selena Gomez and her “besties” enjoying the raves with top notch and small bands performing in genres from hip hop, rock, independent and electronic dance music whilst sparking fashion trends. Well either way this year Coachella takes place from April the 15th to April 24th 2016. So I guess it may be safe to say Coachella does not happen over the weekend so it can never be the best weekend ever (it actually spans a rough two weeks and). Moreover, the world over that has been there and done that are looking for something new to experience.

selena

Why?
Well some of you are looking for a more intimate, cultured experience. You want to expose yourselves to new culture, cuisine, creative art, music and people. Also some of you would rather relish in doing this amid the backdrop of an exotic island whilst still “doing good” by following sustainable principles and best practices there. In addition, celebrating peace, love and unity with family, old friends and new ones all in one weekend getaway may just be your ‘cup of tea.’

nf

Where am I taking you?
So let me introduce you to your next festival destination, a twin island state called Trinidad and Tobago. It is the most cosmopolitan island in the West Indies. It is the most southern island at the end of the chain of the West Indies close to the Amazon Forest and Venezuela. It is one of the few places on this planet where the locals are bonded by their love for culture in different ethnic cuisines, music, festivals and celebrations. This tropical island boasts of vibrant and infinite talent in their creative industry; fashion, music, art, food and even fun.

In fact, there is an organization in Trinidad called New Fire which is responsible for curating a series of musical concerts each month to showcase new music and progressive culture. New Fire is an initiative under the non-profit social enterprise called The Trinidad and Tobago Bridge Initiative. This year they are putting their mark on the local festival scene to promote a signature of theirs called New Fire Festival 2016. The team at New Fire has dubbed it, “The Best Weekend Ever”.

yoga
New Fire Festival 2016 is carded for 26th and 27th of March 2016 at Sanderson Park in Freeport Trinidad. The event promises outstanding live performances, outdoor camping (under the stars ), yoga, a midnight rave and a local shopping market featuring artisans, artists and fashion. There will be family zones, a pottery talkshop, a drum circle and musical acts from reggae to rock. All of the activities at New Fire Festival are pitted on the concept of sustainability. This includes upcycled shopping but is certainly not limited to that alone. Patrons interested in purchasing food are advised to bring reusable food containers as the New Fire team wants to reduce as much waste as they can that may harm the environment.

The partners for this event are also keepers and leaders of organizations that promote sustainability. Some of these include Wa Samaki Ecosystems (permaculture restoration), Upmarket (artisan market), Sun Eaters Organics (high quality local food products and gourmet chocolate), Soular (plantain and cocoa nibs), Sonara Sound Therapy, INIPIS (sustainable human involved planetary systems), I Am Movement (distributing information and providing workshop facilitators), Anugraha Yoga, Akasha Studio and Destination Chocolate.

fire dance

 

new fire fest

There are different types of tickets available. Persons can choose from various options the type of experiences they mostly prefer and enjoy.If you would like to find out more on tickets and about The Best Weekend Ever then please have a look at the links below.
(w): http://www.newfireworld.com/
(e): newfirett@gmail.com
(fb): https://www.facebook.com/events/430322497165733/

So whatever you decide I wish you the best weekend ever!!!

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago