RUME
MAGAZINE ISSUE 001 DECEMBER 2023
morning, sunshine
The true story behind Wake Up Call
CHRISTMAS IN DUBAI BABYLON DIFC INTERIOR DESIGN FOR WINTER
HEART AND SOLE Dubai’s favourite music, culture and streetwear fesival, Sole DXB, returns
RUME
MAGAZINE ISSUE 001
DECEMBER 2023
contents 3 EDITOR’S LETTER
8 HOW TO GET COSY
4 CANDLE OF THE MONTH
9 ENHANCE YOUR HOME
WHAT’S NEW THIS MONTH
THE STORY BEHIND WAKE UP CALL
WAYS TO FEEL SNUG DURING DUBAI’S ‘WINTER’
BISHOP DESIGN SHARE THEIR INTERIOR TIPS
6 EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY 10 HEART AND SOLE
SOLE DXB RETURNS TO DUBAI DESIGN DISTRICT
WHERE TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN DUBAI
7 BABYLON DIFC
FIND OUT OUR THOUGHTS ON THE HOTSPOT
11 A TOUCH OF SPARKLE
CÉ LA VI IS THE HOME OF CELEBRATION THIS SEASON
HIGHEST IN THE RUME A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT OUR CUSTOM CANDLES FOR DUBAI-BASED COMPANY, HIGH CLASS TRAVEL EXPERIENCES Creating bespoke candles is one of our favourite ways to help brands give back to their clients through gifting. There are so many possibilites when it comes to designing your own candle, and it's always fun to explore new options. High Class Travel Experiences, a luxury tour operator in the UAE, approached us to create branded candles for their visit to the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) expo in Cannes this month. High Class specialise in bringing celebrities and VIPs to the UAE and showcasing the best that the country has to offer in terms of activities and events. highclasstravelexperiences.com
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editor’s letter
W
ell, isn’t this exciting? Welcome to the first edition of Rume Magazine, our new monthly title here to bring you all things local, lifestyle and luxe. Those of you who already The Rume will know we love all things home and interiors, which is amplified by our collection of scented candles. But we’re about so much more than that, and this magazine is designed to bring you into our world, as we share the things that have us talking, and we bet will do the same for you.
This month I wanted to bring you back to the start, when we first began the brand and share a little bit about what went on behind the scenes. Our first ever candle was Wake Up Call, and while we now have a collection of six products, this one holds a special place in my heart. You won’t just be hearing from me though, as we’ve enlisted some expert contributors. From interior styling tips to advice from leading design firm Bishop Design. Stepping outside the home, we’re filling you in on the best places to spend Christmas this year, as well as giving you the full low-down on one of our favourite annual events, Sole DXB. We also share a first-hand account of the antics to expect when you spend an evening at Babylon, the exciting dinner and a show restaurant in DIFC. Happy reading, and see you next month!
Elise
wishlist
BOTTEGA VENETA BRICK CASSETTE BAG AED8,550 ounass.ae
DYSON AIRWRAP AED2,299 dyson.ae
GISOU LIP OIL AED133 sephora.ae
APPLE AIRPODS MAX AED2,099 apple.com/ae
DECEMBER 2023 | RUME | 3
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WORDS: ELISE KERR
hat’s the story, morning glory?
I
’m often asked how The Rume started and what made us decide to launch a candle brand in the first place. Usually, I begin a wellrehearsed monologue about wanting to pour my creative energy into a physical product, and bring together my love for interiors, art and décor into something that people would be proud to display in their home. However, I rarely delve deep into how we actually got started and what that process looked like for me. It started with a lemon. I’ve never been particularly gifted
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Discover the inspiration behind The Rume’s first creation, Wake Up Call
when it comes to illustration. In fact, if you gave me a pencil and paper now, I could just about sketch up a convincing stick man. But it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the introduction of digital art changed my life. Investing in an iPad and downloading an app called ProCreate were the catalysts that allowed The Rume to come to fruition. With an Apple Pencil in my hand and no clue where to start, I did the thing many of us would do when presented with a new challenge: head to YouTube. Upon searching for tips and tricks, I came
across a tutorial on how to draw various fruits, and I landed on a lemon. From there I developed the idea to a pattern, incorporating basil leaves that gave me strong connotations of the Italian coast. My candle creation process is somewhat illogical, I think, compared to others in the same industry. I start with the packaging first and foremost, picturing how the final product will look in someone’s home, creating the story behind it which then leads to the name. ‘Wake Up Call’ seemed like the right fit for the burst of energy the bright, vibrant packaging
design was giving me. Finally I create the fragrance, using the visual reference to imagine what a candle that looks like this should smell like, rather than what a candle that smells a certain way should look like. I’ve carried this methodology throughout our whole collection, and I’m often complimented on our packaging, so it must be working. I can’t explain the feeling of pride I get imagining a candle in someone’s home. It’s what drives me to keep creating, in the hopes of speaking to people through our range of designs. the-rume.com
“MY CANDLE CREATION PROCESS IS SOMEWHAT ILLOGICAL”
merry
eat, drink and be WHEN ONLY THE VERY BEST WILL DO, THESE ARE THE PLACES TO DINE IN DUBAI THIS CHRISTMAS
AURA SKYPOOL
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What could be better than celebrating the season from a picturesque infinity pool? One that’s on the 50th floor, of course. auraskypool.com
noburestaurants.com
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Dubai is loved for its sunshine, so make the most of it dining beachside this Christmas. Good food and good music unite. dubai.nikkibeach.com
NAMMOS
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Christmas is a time to treat yourself, and Nammos is certainly a treat. Just be sure to close your eyes when the bill comes. nammos.com/dubai
@atmospheredubai
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2
SUSHISAMBA
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Celebrate Navidad the South American way this year with Amazonico’s annual brunch. Finish on the rooftop for a fiesta. amazonicorestaurant.com
PIERCHIC
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celavi.com/dubai
Nothing says ‘celebration’ like an entertainment-fuelled day at SushiSamba Dubai. Don’t forget your dancing shoes. sushisamba.com/dubai
AMAZONICO
ATMOSPHERE
Take to the skies and dine amongst the clouds at the highest restaurant in Dubai. You’ll never forget the experience.
When visitors are in town, there’s only one place to take them. All the boxes are ticked at CÉ LA VI, so you’re guaranteed a great day.
NIKKI BEACH
NOBU
With one of the best terrace views in the city, Nobu offers a sublime spot to enjoy its signature Japanese Peruvian cuisine.
CÉ LA VI
A restaurant that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Pierchic is a wonderful experience paired with endless ocean views. jumeirah.com
1 ZUMA
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A restaurant that remains at the top of its game, expect a flawless delivery of food, service and a brilliant vibe. zumarestaurants.com
D
on’t think of Babylon as just another dinner and a show restaurant. That’s not what they’re doing here. The phenomenon that took over Dubai swiftly after the peak of the pandemic has yet to slow down, with venues across the city adding a slice of razzle dazzle to its offering. Babylon, however, is driving in a different lane. Focusing its energy on creating a hedonistic experience, where guests are actually part of the party. As we simmer into our seats and begin with a course of Chilean sea bass tempura and moreish
DISCOVER A SHOW WITH GLITZ, GLAMOUR AND GODDESSES
Padron peppers, we hear a soulful voice from behind. An upbeat rendition of Whitney Houston’s If I Told You That is performed by a regallooking pair making their way through the tables toward the stage. The energy in the room shifts as guests are serenaded before the evening has barely begun. It’s not long before the drama evolves, with half-clothed
acrobats being propelled above the front row by a rope dangling from the ceiling. One dancer, with tassels hanging from the length of her arms, hangs only by her hair as she swings into the crowd. It’s an act we’ve seen before, but it never fails to amaze. Moments later we’re transported to ancient Greece, as the gates of Babylon set the scene for an impressive battledance blend. We’re so distracted by what’s happening on stage, we barely notice that our table has been filled with a selection of the chef’s best dishes. An ovenbaked Neapolitan pizza with burrata and
sun-dried tomatoes sits on an elevated tray, a crunchy Asian greens salad with a sweet miso dressing, and a filet of Chilean sea bass lay out in front of us. We devour the lot just as the lights go down and the music switches. Our attentive waiter begins to fulfil his other role for the night, climbing atop a platform and encouraging everyone to wave their napkin over their head. As Bella Ciao pumps from the speakers, we take joy in seeing our fellow diners getting in on the twirling action before deciding to call it a night. babylondifc.com DECEMBER 2023 | RUME | 7
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that cosy feeling in our homes as we shovel ice into our gingerbread lattes. All you really need to create Hygge is a cosy corner and a cup of tea. If you want to have some fun with some seasonal touches, you can try dried stems and
Add tall, tapered candles in bronze or black holders to bring a touch of winter drama. Accessories such as coffee table trays and vases in wood, wicker, stone, and glass bring an earthy nod to the season. Throws instantly soften up a room, and the market has an abundance
HY G E
G
osiness is an art that the Danes take very seriously. Hygge is the practice of peaceful comfort, and it is a feeling that humans inherently long for and need. A restorative practice which comes into its own in darker, chillier months, it conjures images of finding warmth and quiet, while a storm lashes outside. And though temperatures remain in their 30s here in UAE, we are still longing to create
INTERIOR STYLIST HANNAH RAVENWRIGHT SHARES HER TIPS FOR A COSY HOME
Autumnal sprigs. Brown and orange eucalyptus provide a long-lasting flash of flame-coloured beauty to a dining table, kitchen island or console. Tea lights in frosted or cracked glass jars add warmth and can carry a space through until the festive season. 8 | RUME | DECEMBER 2023
of options – from a cosy AED100 blanket, or a AED1,500 pure cashmere throw for ultra-indulgence. Seasonal styling is no longer solely reserved for Christmas time. No Hygge haven is complete without ambient lighting, so
swap the ‘big light’ for lamps, and choose warm bulbs rather than white ones. There’s something about having a tidy house, fresh loungewear, and lighting a new candle that makes you feel a sense of calm and cosying up on the sofa (with the AC switched up a notch) can fill that chilly-weather void. Now all that’s left to do is find your favourite cup and put the kettle on. @ravensnestdesignstudio
how to
enhance your home with candles
Bishop Design's Senior Interior Designer, Francesca Patti, has over 15 years of design experience. She has worked in destinations like Italy, China, and most recently, Dubai. Here she tells us her secrets for making the most of your home through candles.
Mood and well-being Scented candles are simple yet powerful accessories. Placing them in your bathroom during a soothing bath can create a spa-like experience right in your own home. You can also position them on a coffee table next to your sofa while enjoying a glass of wine, helping you disconnect from the stresses of your daily routine. While they make beautiful design pieces, they also help us create moments for ourself. Elevating your aesthetic Choosing the right candle is a powerful tool for enhancing your space’s aesthetic. Not only do you infuse pleasant fragrances and soothing lighting into a room, but you also add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Consider candles with designs, colours, and scents that infuse your personal style with your living environment. This attention to detail can elevate your space to a whole new level of visual and sensory appeal.
Strategic placement To make the most of them, carefully consider where and how you position your candles. Key areas that are the most open allow the scent to disperse throughout your living space, for example, you can position candles in your kitchen to infuse the heart of your home with a welcoming aroma. Place them in the hallway to create an inviting entryway for guests, and adorn your main sitting room to set a cosy and inviting atmosphere for relaxation. By strategically placing candles in your living space and incorporating them into your daily routines, you can harness their effects to create your desired mood, reduce stress, and create serene and enjoyable atmosphere at home. wearebishopdesign.com
DECEMBER 2023 | RUME | 9
WORDS: ELISE KERR
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nce an event reserved for the city’s most dedicated streetwear enthusiasts, Sole DXB has grown to a huge celebration of street culture, music and art. Taking place in Dubai Design District from December 8 to 10, this year the event is themed 'Hip Hop 50', honouring the history of rap. The festival is known for its dynamic atmosphere and immersive experience, combining live music performances, DJ sets and sports tournaments, as well as talks and workshops. Headlining the opening night is the 11-time Grammynominated hip-hop 10 | RUME | DECEMBER 2023
fe el
it
ur in yo p dee
d s ol e an rt ea h
sole dxb returns 8 to 10 december icon, Busta Rhymes. Joining him on the line-up are prominent figures from the American hip-hop scene such as Tobe Nwigwe, Big Daddy Kane and Jadakiss. The festival will also spotlight regional talent including Egyptian-Sudanese hip-hop star Nadine El Roubi, Zambian rapper Sampa the Great, and SyrianAmerican rapper and poet Omar Offendum.
We can also expect Dubai's culinary talents, including Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori's modern Japanese dishes, Rascal's satisfying sandwiches, Pickl's fresh burgers, and Miss Lily's vibrant Caribbean cuisine. Each brand brings its unique flavour to the festival, complementing the cultural and musical offerings with diverse food experiences.
The event is not just a music festival but a cultural hub that blends art, fashion and food into a highly anticipated threeday experience. It is hailed as the region's coolest lifestyle and street-culture festival and has a packed schedule designed to cater to the interests of a diverse audience. Dubai Design District provides a state-ofthe-art backdrop, reinforcing the festival's status as a leading event contemporary culture in the region. Tickets start from AED155 and those who want to be part of the action will have to book in advance. soledxb.com
A season filled with
Khalifa is what draws the crowd, but it’s the award-winning menu that has garnered acclaim within the MICHELIN Guide that keeps people coming back. Renowned for its contemporary cuisine, CÉ LA VI is not just a restaurant, but an
W
hile Dubai is no stranger to incredible dining venues, there’s something truly special about CÉ LA VI that keeps us coming back. Perched atop Address Sky View Hotel, the wraparound terrace and accompanying infinity pool overlooking Burj
experience that blends culinary finesse with a vibrant atmosphere. This festive season, the restaurant is elevating its atmospheric vibe with a selection of special events. The Christmas Edition lunch on 25 December will embrace the festive spirit from 12pm to 3pm. A meticulously curated set menu by Executive Chef
je ne sais quoi
CÉ LA VI is pulling out all the stops for Christmas Day and New Year's Eve Howard Ko is centred around a roast turkey, promising a gourmet take on traditional flavours. The lunch is complemented by desserts crafted by the restaurant's pastry chef, including the ‘holiday berry swirl delight’ and a classic panettone. Priced at AED180, guests are invited to celebrate the occasion with friends and loved ones while toasting to the year that’s passed. Given the beautiful weather that Dubai is bound to have on the day, an alfresco table is highly recommended to really make the most of that view. As the year draws to a close, CÉ LA VI is one of the most bucket list-worthy spots for New Year's Eve. Welcome 2024 amid the grandeur of Downtown Dubai's skyline, with the Burj Khalifa's majestic fireworks serving as the pièce
de resistance. The evening's festivities will kick off at 8pm and continue into the late hours, featuring live performances by the Jack Pack, Britain’s Got Talent stars and one of the UK's most successful swing bands. A sublime menu will complement the entertainment with sumptuous creations, ensuring that the last meal of the year is just as memorable as the evening itself. With a minimum spend of AED5,000 per person, guests can secure a spot at this glamorous event. CÉ LA VI’s festive offerings epitomise the luxury and excitement that define the city itself. Whether it's the familiar warmth of a Christmas lunch or the electrifying anticipation of a New Year's Eve countdown, CÉ LA VI is serving plenty of festive sparkle this season.
celavi.com
DECEMBER 2023 | RUME | 11
THINKING OF SENDING A BRANDED NOTEBOOK AS YOUR END OF YEAR GIFT?
GIFT THEM SOMETHING THEY ACTUALLY WANT.
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