Pakistan Today Paperazzi Issue 314 Aug 08th, 2019

@paperazzimagazine

all about writing

>> ABOUT ME | ON PG 32

BAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE

PG

28

Safinah Elahi speaks about her latest book ‘The Unbridled Romance of Love & Pain’

In conversation with Saba Usman of Artisan Cakes by Saba

TRENDS

class ic p is h was

Issue 314, 08-14 Sep, 2019 www.paperazzi.com.pk

A timeless trend that never fades away!

» TRAVEL | ON PG 40

fashion first

faiza saleem travels

Featuring Mariyam D Rizwan - pg 26

to new york

Planes, trains & automobiles

still i rise

khadijah shah

Issue 314, 08-14 Sep, 2019 www.paperazzi.com.pk

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contents

10 Put on your game face MAK by Alkaram hosted a fun Game Night at Mews CafĂŠ in Karachi.

16 Fitness first Velocity health & fitness was launched new health club at Amanah Mall.

20 Cover Shoot

By Khadijah Shah 26 Boss Lady Featuring Mariyam D Rizwan 32 Bake the world a better place In conversation with Saba Usman

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Publisher: Arif Nizami l Publishing Editors: Samina Khan & Meher Tareen l Contributing Editor: Ali Nizami Managing Editor: Mehak Elahi | Editors: Minahil Qasim, Ramina Maripova & Alisa Dossa Digital Media: Nazish Sameer | Creative Director: Muhammad Asif | Marketing: Sohail Abbas 0300-4652194, Zahid Ali 0301-8479758, Muddasir Alam 0333-2282905, Zulfiqar Butt 0300-8451634, Mudassar Chuhadry 0333-8106007, Photographers: Irfan Younas & Kamran Mehdi Printed at PTPRINT Press, 4- Shaarey Fatima Jinnah Lahore. | Paperazzi is a project of Paper Magazine and Pakistan Today.

Contact Details: papermagazine2010@gmail.com

Noor

Maria Jan

Abbie

put on your game face

Fahya

MAK by Alkaram hosted a fun Game Night at Mews CafĂŠ in Karachi on the 31st of August. Social media influencers and bloggers attended the game night where they enjoyed fun games and activities along with delicious food.

Rabia & Heebah Ali

Mehak, Seher & Noha

Aqsa Fawad

Marium Saqib 10

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Ammara 2019

Bakhtawar

Hadia

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night at the Museum

Maryam & Ali

Sahar Tareen, Zara & Rishid Rana

Pakistan’s first private museum of Contemporary & Modern Art, COMO Museum, hosted an event ‘The Opening of Self Portraits in The Age of the “Selfie”’.

Minaa Mohsin

Umar Shah & Ali Shah 12

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Bia & Ali Tareen

Anum & Eisha

Saleena Hasmi 2019

Mareena & Ojala

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Rishmae Azhar

Ammar Mohsin & Mehek Saeed

good music good vibe

Saheefa Jabbar & Khwaja Khizer

Jimmy Khan performed acoustic versions of his singles while Nimar Zar sang originals from his repertoire and covers of renowned artists at the Levi’s Live performance in Lahore.

Nimar Zar with friends

Fatima Hira 14

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Mina Mohsin & Danyal Omar

Amena Farooq 2019

Anum Qasim

Farhad Humayun

Rabeya Jalil & Nashmia Haroon

Ahmed Wohaib

Aimina Rizvi, Hamna Khalid & Ammal Naeem

Khaqan Shahnawaz with friend

Jimmy Khan

Saleha Irfan & Hassan Tahir Latif

Atif Manzoor

Ali Mumtaz & Mir Zia Mahmood 2019

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fitness first

Fizza Ali

Abid Ali Butt, Chaudry Yousaf, Laila Ali, Imran yaqoob with velocity members

A new health club Velocity health and fitness was launched at the 5th floor of Amanah Mall located on Model Town Link Road Lahore and it was well attended by the fitness lovers of Lahore.

Neha Maneka, Adeel & Sumrina

Ayesha Sana

Ali Agha & Fatema 16

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Kamran Akmal & Suleman Butt 2019

Madiha Khalid

Maham Syed

Amjad Bhatti with friends

Sobia & Ana

Rabiya Faisal

Ayesha Sana & Sophiya Ahmed

Hibba

Sidra & Rima Farid

Ali Arif

Nauman Khan & Subhan Atif

Hamza Yousaf & Razz Ahmed 2019

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h ot t i es o f

Alishae Zahra Shah Looks effortlessly chic!

Tamania Kamal Keeps it neautral.

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2018 2019

the week

Seher Tareen A head turner as always!

Yousaf Shahbaz A huge fan of his quirky style.

2018 2019

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STILL In conversation with Khadijah Shah

RISE Other than yourself, who is your favorite designer?

I really look towards the greats, design houses such as Valentino, Chanel, Dior have always been inspirational as far as couture is concerned. For RTW I love the clean lines of celine, the femininity of Preen, the slight edge and structure of Acne and the columnesque silhouette of Roland Mouret.

Ralph and Russo, Givenchy and Elie Saab also are some of my red carpet favourites!

What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion is the language I use to express myself, it is both an outlet for my creativity as well as an embodiment of my love for art. Personally what I love most about fashion is it’s ability to reinvent and invigorate; it is both therapeutic and uplifting.

Are you inspired by what happens in the news and the world around you?

Yes of course, a lot of what we create comes directly from where our subconscious mind lies and to remain current, you must be aware of your surroundings and the different elements that are affecting our world; whether that be political, artistic, environmental or technological.

What does a day in the life of Khadijah Shah entail?

It’s a long day! I wake up early, spend some time organising my home and

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head out to the elan HQ. I spend the rest of the day with my design teams and usually return home late in the evening.

I spend the rest of my time with my kids, reading or catching up on news- I also like meet up with my close friends on the weekends.

What is the most important quality in life for you?

Being loyal and living with principles. I can’t relate to anything else.

Tell us about your recent showcase at Fashion Parade’19?

We showcased La Doux Poison, our AW19 Couture collection, for which we constructed a mélange of western and eastern silhouettes in our signature pastels and embellishments. With Classic fairytale silhouettes, this line is very quintessential Èlan.

What was your inspiration behind the collection that managed to grasp the attention of international fashion community?

For ‘Le Doux Poison’, we went back to the true essence of Èlan. Rich, luxurious, fabrics with extensive craftsmanship in grand silhouettes. We poured through our archives and pulled out the elements that we are known for and melded them with an array of new and experimental techniques of craftsmanship, to create a beautiful line of must- have ensembles for the lavish and extravagant elan woman.

Do you think it’s about time the international fashion world acknowledged the immense talent in the Pakistani fashion industry?

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Pakistani craft and culture is deeply storied and inspirational and at Èlan even with our inherent Francophile tilt, we always employ indigenous craft into the collections paying homage to our beautiful land and its rich cultural heritage. There is so much the industry has to offer and the right kind of exposure can enrich the global fashion industry and totally enamour consumers.

You have a very strong opinion about the replicas of your designs by established design houses. What measures do you think fashion industry as a whole can take to curb this from happening?

I think those who influence and disseminate information must educate people about what is real and what has been resonated. It is a moral responsibility to not promote counterfeit and confuse people about its authenticity. As brands we must try and promote individuality and continuously work on craft and quality to provide consumers with designs that our both unique and distinctive.

There are fashion brands and there is a replica industry and that distinction unfortunately in Pakistan is still lacking.

How has Élan as a brand evolved over the years?

We have been lucky enough to grow from a brand strictly known for its couture to one that is successfully leading the way in luxury retail and unstitched fabrics, all the while still keeping a strong foothold on high end design. It has been a challenging task but we’ve always had a goal to take Èlan to newer heights with every year that passes and thankfully we have managed to reach the goals we have set up for ourselves.

How has the recent changes in the economy and the spending power of consumers affected your business?

The economy has been testing but our designs have always been 24

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investment pieces of the finest quality. Our clientele understands that, they purchase from elan knowing that it’s something that will be worn for years to come and maybe even passed down to future generations. Having a diverse business base and varied clientele at every strata of society has helped us steer through these tough times.

Are fashion weeks for a design house as important as they used to be at one time?

Fashion weeks are great source of exposure for young brands. It really depends on where you’re placed and every individual brands goals and the compatibility with the agenda of a fashion week.

What does the future hold for Khadija Shah?

Like always I hope there is a lot more in store - we have a number of new unstitched collections coming up for both Ăˆlan and Zaha, we have new bridal collections in store for the season and many developments happening on the retail end as well. I cannot wait for the opening of our first Zaha store in Dolmen Karachi.

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#BossLady

FASHION FIRST MARIYAM D. RIZWAN IS A PRIVATELY OWNED LABEL THAT WAS FOUNDED BACK IN 2015 WHEN THE DESIGNER, MARIYAM. GRADUATED FROM CHELSEA SCHOOL OF ARTS & DESIGN, AND WENT ON TO WORK WITH RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS FROM THE LIKES OF TED BAKER, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, AND H&M. THE LABEL OFFERS EVERYTHING FROM PRÊT AND LUXURY PRÊT TO HAUTE COUTURE AND BRIDAL ENSEMBLES, AND THE DESIGNS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES; WITH A COLLECTION OF INTRICATELY DETAILED AND CAREFULLY THOUGHT OUT PIECES FOR THE MODERN PAKISTANI WOMAN.

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Did you stumble upon your career or was it something that you always wanted?

I went to an Art & Design School in London, so I always knew I wanted to do this.

What was your “aha!” moment?

My ‘aha’ moment was when I got a Job Placement with Alexander McQueen, and also when I sold Prints to H&M at the Indigo Trade Show in Paris.

Did you ever consider or experience a career change?

No – I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. This has always been my dream and luckily enough, it worked out for me.

When was a time you felt completely discouraged and how did you push through it?

I have never felt discouraged.

My heart has always been in the right place.

I get to work in the morning, brainstorm ideas with my team, spend the rest of the day in the workshop and then head to the gym in the evening.

Complete this sentence: To me, a #BossLady is…”

Someone who goes fiercely after what she wants.

What did you learn from your biggest failure?

Thankfully I haven’t experienced failure as yet.

Which world leader would you most like to have dinner with?

Barack & Michelle Obama

What advice would you give to young girls out there who have dreams and goals like yours?

Education is important, work hard. Do not give up, and always believe in yourself because no one else will.

" I CAN’T IMAGINE MYSELF DOING ANYTHING ELSE. THIS HAS ALWAYS BEEN MY DREAM AND LUCKILY ENOUGH, IT WORKED OUT FOR ME. "

What was the best advice that your mentor gave you?

Have faith in your own abilities, work hard, and there is nothing you cannot accomplish. If you believe in yourself and have dedication and pride and never quit, you'll be a winner.

What is the number one thing that is yet to be ticked off your bucket list?

Scuba diving and sky diving.

What does nobody tell you about being the boss?

The responsibilities that come with it.

Name one boss lady that you admire Victoria Beckham!

Describe a day in your life

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

ALL ABOUT

WRITING

C

In conversation with Safinah Elahi Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a teacher and a mother of two, aged ten and six. My daughter is ten years old, and my son is 6 years old. I am a writer and a poet. I am a partner in a fitness company, and also doing a law degree as a self-study program.

Describe your writing style.

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My poetry style is very simplistic and my novel style would be narrative in a third person voice.

You recently published your latest set of poems in a book titled ‘The Unbridled Romance of Love and Pain’. What inspired you to write it?

My inspiration comes from experiences in my life as well as tap-

A TEACHER, A PARTNER OF A FITNESS COMPANY, A LAWYER AND NOW ALSO A WRITER, THERE ARE MANY A THINGS SAFINAH ELAHI CAN DO, AND LATEST ON HER LIST IS BEING A PROMISING AUTHOR. ELAHI RECENTLY PUBLISHED A COLLECTION OF HER POETRY IN A BOOK TITLED, ‘THE UNBRIDLED ROMANCE OF LOVE AND PAIN’ ASIDE FROM WHICH SHE IS ALSO WORKING ON HER NOVEL. WE ARE SO EXCITED TO GET OUR HANDS ON ELAHI’S LATEST WORK AND GIVE IT A READ OURSELVES!

ping into others feelings. Whatever is written isn’t only related to me only but is about others too.

I am a sensitive person so I try understanding what others are feeling in the given moment.

What did you learn while writing? Anything that surprised you about yourself and your skills?

While writing I would say I learned to be patient and to not have instant rectification. Sometimes you need results urgently but writing is a longer process than a business. You write, you compile, you get it edited and a lot more. It takes time, it is detailed, and it has surprised me as it is emotional and I’m not an emotional person.

Had you always been interested in writing? What fueled your desire to write this book?

I have always been interested in books, but as a reader. If I have a book with me, I don’t need anything else.

The desire that fuelled me to write was the fact that I was ready to share my feelings. Some things that are really personal things and I wouldn’t want anyone to know as even if the feelings weren’t mine the expressions were, but this year I let go all of this.

Where do you get your ideas?

I get my ideas from my life experiences. From any moment in time, if somebody speaks something or even any interesting word.

What is your writing process like?

How long did it take you to compile your latest book from start to finish?

Surprising that it didn’t take too long as it has 8 year old pieces of writing compiled in it. So all the poems the book has have not been written in four months, but the book itself is compiled in four months.

Do you believe in writer’s block?

I am very happy to share that I have not had any block until now.

Poetry is something someone said I write a lot sometimes and sometimes very less. But when it comes to writing a novel; once the story gets stuck and you’re trying to line up a character, I get writer’s block.

Aside from writing, do you have any other interests or passions?

I do a lot of yoga, and I work out as it’s my passion. My career is I teach and I’m a

parent counselor as I love kids and love my work. I also write, and I even write blogs for a travel agency. I started writing my novel and poetry side by side and this year I thought I should just put it out there for people to read.

Is there any advice that you can give to aspiring writers?

For aspiring young writers, please don’t get disheartened if you don’t immediately find any publication. Wait for the right time and don’t stop writing. You can also look for online forums such as Instagram pages or blogs. In order to publish your work, approach publishers; local or international both, because when it comes to poetry, locally we have very less options.

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with Turkey Bacon Double Decker Beef Burger

Buttermilk Chicken Burger

This week Team Paperazzi headed over to Bibi’s Pink, a new eatery in Lahore. A restaurant with a mission to serve some scrumptious food along with an aim to donate a portion of its profits towards girl's education. We can’t wait to return back and try out more of their dishes while helping out with this great cause.

up a cozy place that ng eni op of mt ea dr s ay alw ve “i’ a po int in life wh ere i'm at i’m w no . od fo ing az am serves venture, an exciting ris k, liv ing my dream. th is is a new idrees . i’m ex plorin g.” - dr . sabahat

#papera

s Choux Pastry with Chicken Ball

MENU: • Mozzarella Cheese Sticks • Buttermilk Chicken Burger • Chicken and Mushroom Cannelloni • Choux Pastry with Chicken Balls • Double Decker Beef Burger with • Turkey Bacon • Tenderloin Steak with Cafe de • Paris Sauce

Empowered women empower women

DESSERTS: • Signature Fresh Doughnuts • Gateau de Relais 30

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Slurpp

Gateau de Relais

m

Doughnuts Signature Fresh

Zen mode on!

BIBI'S PINK

azziEATS

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

RESTAURANT

“Bibi’s Pink aims to provide a platform for economic empowerment for women and it is a crucial change that needs to happen so we can embolden women.” - Dr. Sabahat Idrees

That logo though...

Chicken & Mushroom Cannelloni

Quirky rustic interior

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How and when did you start Artisan Cakes by Saba? Is baking your passion?

Artisan Cakes has been a long time coming! I’ve been making cakes for my friends and family for the last 10 years, and it was their encouragement that gave me the push I needed.

Did you take any courses or are you self taught?

Completely self-taught! And by self-taught I mean endless nights of researching and experimenting.

Google is my best friend!

Artisan Cakes by Saba is the first one to offer hand painted cakes. How did you come up with that?

Painting was always my means of expression growing up. When I started baking, I realised that cakes were just another canvas for my art. So I guess, my love of art and baking converged into making Artisan Cakes what it is.

bake the world

What’s the response been like?

It has been absolutely overwhelming! And I’m so glad and humbled that people are appreciating my work. It’s actually becoming hard to handle all the orders, which I guess is a great problem to have!

A BETTER PLACE WE SPEAK TO THE UBER TALENTED, SABA USMAN OF ARTISAN CAKES BY SABA - THE FIRST EVER BAKER IN PAKISTAN TO DO HAND PAINTED CAKES!

ABOUT ME!

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What is the model behind Artisan Cakes?

Every cake we make is unique and customised, and I personally make everything from scratch. I love that my clients give me free reign to create something special for them, and that is why I take limited orders so I can give each cake my all.

What is the most challenging part in creating the cakes?

The most challenging part would definitely be working with a temperamental medium like buttercream.

All of our cakes are either buttercream or white chocolate; we don’t use fondant. When it comes to cakes, I believe that they should taste better than they look.

How do you organise, plan and prioritise your work?

Pre-planning is key. It’s not just the execution, there is a whole creative process behind each project. Doing everything from scratch means I have to start days in advance. To-do lists are the way to go!

Describe your most challenging baking project?

I made a four-tier cake inspired by Chinese ginger jars and the idea was to present it with a display of actual jars. I really didn’t want my cake to look out of place next to these beautifully intricate pieces, which was a challenge and a half!

What do you love most about this job?

I enjoy making people happy and con-

tributing to their special occasions. And I get to do what I love everyday, which really is the cherry on top of the cake (pun intended haha!)

If not baking, what profession would you prefer?

I don’t know what exact profession it would be, but it would have to be something creative. Interior design has always excited me, so maybe that.

Do you plan on opening a bakery in the near future?

I’m not sure if a bakery aligns with the current model of Artisan Cakes.

But who knows what the future holds!

Any advice for a junior you?

I’m really glad I decided to do this. It can be very overwhelming to start your own business but the first step is always the hardest. I wish I had started earlier!

What’s next for Artisan Cakes?

So we just launched cakesicles; they’re cute, mini treats, similar to cake pops.

We are also introducing our wedding cake line in the near future.

Super excited for that!

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#paperazziaboutagirl

IN THE FIELD WITH...

mahnoor IQBAL FASHION DESIGNER

Who is your best friend?

My mom What would you grab if your house was on fire?

My phone & Bonzee, my Shih-Tzu What is your destination for the trip of your dreams?

Mykonos.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grow up? And do you still want it?

I wanted to be a lot of things from being a ballerina all the way to being the first female president. I ended up as a fashion designer and I really enjoy what I do.

What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?

Never give in!

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HADDIYA AAZER

get the look

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Alte rn

at iv

we show you what your favourite style stars are wearing. find your style inspiration right here as we break down their looks!

A

MANTRA SHIRT RS. 2,570

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what we fancy!

From the makers of Paperazzi!

Find out what tickles our fancy!

food

hot couple Shehzad Sheikh and Hina Mir are on our hot couple list this week.

How crazy are you for fried chicken? A lot?

A whole lot? No matter how much, Clucky’s is the right place for you. So welcome to the Chicken House, where you can GO CLUCKY over delicious, crispy, tender fried chicken with some amazing signature sauces.

on the playlist Pakistani artist, Turhan James’ song LA is playing in our heads on repeat this week!

news fun & quirky fun stuff Our latest find, Body Care Essentials, is one of our favorite local companies producing natural, handmade and cruelty free soap products.

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PakistaniAmerican singer and songwriter, Momina Mustehsan is on our fun and quirky list this week for being her energized and charming self.

hot stuff Yummy Mummy Manahyl Shafi is on our hot radar this week for her good looks, amazing sense of style and overall fun loving personality.

US presidential candidate Bernie Sanders on Saturday said he was deeply concerned about the situation in the Indian Held Kashmir (IHK) and called for immediate removal of the communication blockade that has entered its 28th day.

travel diaries

travel diaries

faiza saleem new york

planes, trains & automobiles

Travelling is great fun. You get to explore a new place, meet new people and get wiser! We want to know more and will share with you exciting travel stories from a few special people in our section, planes, trains & automobiles!

Where did you choose to go and why?

I went to New York, USA for six days. I was too excited to get my visa and I love travelling, plus I had been meaning to take improv classes in the US for a long time.

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel

travel diaries

Tell us the most delicious meal you tired?

Their pizza! And the fun part was that they had these huge slices of pizza everywhere and one slice was big enough to become a meal. I especially loved the four-cheese pizza I had at Carve Pizza on 8th Avenue, Manhattan.

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries travel diaries

Tell us the most exciting thing you did during your trip?

I performed at the Broadway Comedy club! That was such a refreshing experience and felt like I’d achieved a milestone.

I also took improv classes in NYC, which I hope will help me improve our shows here too.

travel diaries

Any tips?

Make sure you’re well prepared for all kinds of weather.

We got hot days, chilly evenings and rainy nights. And try to use the Subway because it’s cheap and convenient. It’s also good to have your own itinerary prepared so that you don’t waste time figuring out what to do each day. Also, be careful with your phones and purses-don’t leave anything behind in a cab because it’s tough to trace their yellow cabs.

travel

travel diaries

travel diaries

travel diaries

classic pishwas ay. at never fades aw th d en tr s es el m ti The vourite style star’s fa r ou of e m so ow See h le pishwas’s! don their incredib

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what ’s happenin g!

Your weekly entertainment guide plus all the upcoming events and much much more! Paperazzi gives you the latest scoop!

feline riposte Tayyab Moazzam studio is all set to present their Feline Riposte collection. Couture for boss ladies, this comfortable and crease-resistance collection is perfect for the new age trend-setting woman.

skin first Dr. Madiha Azmat Rao of Ultraderm is on our radar because of her impeccable and brilliant services.

To schedule an appointment with her, visit at 98 CCA, DD Phase 4 DHA or call at 042 – 35694218.

good food, good mood wake up & makeup Makeup by Mashaal Azmat’s 6 days intensive course is what every girl needs. Get yourself enrolled now, you won’t be disappointed. Contact: 0320 4550777 44

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After an overwhelming response The Kitchen Lhr’s catering service is now open to public. They offer a wide variety of scrumptious dishes from their elaborate menu and finger licking good desi entree’s too. We highly recommend it! Contact 0332 5482436

08 - 14 Sep

horoscope

Our fab astrologer Zahid Haider, styles up your stars. Find out what’s in store for you this week!

For your in-depth weekly forecast call 0322-757-5219 E-mail: happyhaider65@gmail.com

ARIES (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) If there’s one thing you can be sure of, it’s that this month promises to bring with itself the gift of both luxury and abundance. Perfect the art of sitting back and watching the world go by in slow motion. Not everything will work out at the pace you want it to, and that is not a bad thing. Learning to surrender when is needed will change the game for you both personally and professionally.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) Money, power, position and fame. Yes, you can have it all, but what are you trading in order to build a life that looks good on the outside? Your mental health is important, Scorpio.

Don't take it for granted. In order to be your most productive self, prioritize spending time alone and on self-care rituals. On the upside: both friends and family promise to support your ventures in the best way they can.

TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) The conversation this month is not about what you’re gaining; which is a lot, but about what you are trading the bargain. Pace yourself, Taurus. This will prevent the crash and burn that seems inevitable at this point. A simple way to stay energized: establish a morning routine that allows you to stretch or exercise, gather your thoughts, say your affirmations out loud and proud, plan ahead and eat a wholesome breakfast. Add a self-care Sunday or two on the schedule too. No cell phones.

No Internet. Just sunshine, rest and plenty of massages.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) You are completing a major cycle this month, one that promises to make you proud of the efforts you have put in. The gods of abundance have their eyes on you, Sagittarius. Trust that you will be adequately rewarded. Is there a million-dollar idea you have been toying with? You can’t take over the world alone even though you sometimes want to. Recruiting the right team will take you one step closer to the big one.

GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) September promises to bring many reasons to celebrate! You will be surrounded by your soul crew—an everlasting joy and inspiration. See how you can support each other to reach greater heights. Thinking about partnering with somebody who complements your skills perfectly? This could be the collaboration of a lifetime.

CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22) How much is too much and where does one draw the line? Understand the energy levels of your body and work accordingly, especially if you are recovering from an illness. Replenishing your reserves when you need to will help you become the most productive version of yourself. Some of you may be fighting the classic bad boss situation, or may feel bogged down by the work environment. Stand up for what you believe in, but also draw your boundaries. Nobody gets to drag you through hell without your permission.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) This is a brand new chapter, Leo, one that promises to be a source of optimism and joy. Allow yourself to color outside the lines. What you perceive as weirdness can be an act of genius according to somebody else. The month ahead will also provide you with the perfect opportunity to dig through the archives and breathe new life into an old venture. Sometimes distance is all you need to gain fresh perspective.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) The cards are pointing towards a blessed partnership yet again, Virgo. See how you can bring out the best in each other and support growth. At the same time, ensure you put everything on paper so as to keep things strictly professional. You don’t want your good heart to be the reason you go broke and hungry to bed. Listen to your intuition always. You’ll know if somebody is worth your money, or if they are wasting your time.

LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) What if the war you have been waging is against yourself? Slow down. Breathe.

Understand your limitations. Approach your demons from a space of no judgments.

This is the secret to releasing yourself from their grip. What awaits you on the other side of this journey: joy, optimism and inspiration. Speaking of inspiration, what helps you get your creative juices flowing? Libra, allow yourself to soak in the sun and you go into your yin space.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) This is a big victory, Capricorn. The one that will go down in the pages of history. Bask in the glory and enjoy the fruits of your labour. But don’t forget that there’s a lot more you want to achieve in this lifetime. Revisit your long-term goals and go after them full steam.

Having a routine in place will help you channel your energy in the most effective manner.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 21.- FEB. 19) Your cheat code to winning at life: reveling in the journey as much as the destination.

Things are progressing at the right pace for you. Be present to this moment. Honor everything you encounter as a learning experience. Some of you are being given the chance to connect with the right mentor who has the potential to inspire greatness. Stay open.

PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Some of the best-laid plans have a way of falling apart, and that’s okay. Think on your feet, Pisces. There’s a good chance plan B has the potential to bring you more success than the original plan. What you need to keep in mind though, is that you are in the initial stages of planning. The seed will need love and nurture to blossom. Patience is a virtue that will take you a long way.

SHIZA HASSAN

AROOBA RIZWAN

RISHAM SAQIB

birthdays Virgo's are very private people. If they let you in to their lives, one should feel flattered.