The winter festive season is here and we have picked some luxurious velvet outfits with intricate details that will help you make a statement and stand out this wedding season!
Dive into the lap of luxury with MAYFAIR – WINTER PLUSH, a lavish velvet collection that epitomizes timeless elegance and sophistication. Each ensemble is meticulously crafted to give a luxurious feel, showcasing the harmonious blend of high fashion and exclusivity. Each detail narrates a story of refined style, inviting you to embrace the season with unparalleled grace. Get ready to elevate your winter wardrobe with the velvety touch of MAYFAIR.
Tell us about your background and your journey to becoming a maternity and baby photographer and what inspired you to specialise in this family + maternity/newborn photography?
Even though I had always been passionate about photography it was only when I had my first born, Zaynah that I wanted to pursue it. The purpose at the time was to take the best pictures of her. Slowly as people began appreciating my work I began to think this could be something more than just a hobby. At the time I was also on a career break so I was looking for something that I could pursue professionally while not spending too much time away from her. As I began the journey I tried multiple genres but it was always family and children portraits that pulled my heart.
As a photographer, how do you hold space for mama and baby during these most sacred times of birth and the fourth trimester? What sort of presence do you offer your clients?
I provide a very calm and relaxing environment. My natural light studio is like walking into a familiar home where you will feel instant ease. There are no daunting lights or a team of people watching over. It’s just me and my assistant. I make sure everyone who walks through my door is met with warmth and a ton of patience.
What makes a successful maternity, newborn & baby photographer?
Experience is mainly what makes you successful and being a mother yourself is a bonus. One really has to feel the beauty of these moments to be able to capture them wholly.
How do you prepare for a newborn photography session? And what equipments are needed for this shoot?
Being well rested is the number one priority for me. Newborn photography takes time and patience. Since my style is more lifestyle I don’t need to prep much as I don’t have any fancy props. I rely on parents mostly as that’s where I feel babies should be. A good camera and a lens is all you need.
How do you ensure baby safety during the shoot of a newborn?
I do baby lead posing so nothing is ever forced on the baby. Like each person, every baby is different so we just need to be mindful of that.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started your career as a maternity and baby photographer?
To invest in educating myself with a family photographer I admired as early as possible.
Can you describe your photography style?
My style is lifestyle, modern and timeless. As far as I am aware, I am the only one in Pakistan providing specialised family portraits with this aesthetic.
If we were to peek in your camera bag, what would we find?
My go to lense sigma 35mm, a Nikon zoom 35-70. My Nikon Z6ii. A flash (which I hardly use) and maybe some tissues and a pair of socks (I like to shoot barefoot when indoors)
What are the biggest challenges of your profession?
Family photography in Pakistan is still a very new concept. People don’t take it seriously, mostly who do have visited me and realise the joy of it. But for most it feels like too much investment and so the market is limited. But after a decade I think I have been able to bring some awareness that these family moments are fleeting and most parents like me regret not taking enough pictures with their children.
What are some tips for parents looking to do a newborn, maternity and family shoot?
Firstly it’s to make sure you like the photographer’s style. Then it’s important to communicate what you expect from your session. The rest is to have fun. Photographers can try and do their best to make your pictures perfect but unless you are not having fun it won’t shine through.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
I love this question, I often think about it. Obviously it has to be creative. When I was in primary school in London I loved my woodwork class and I always thought what if I had stayed there maybe I would be creating furniture. Interior designing is also another, I spend countless hours looking at home interiors. I think I got it from my Mama. At one point I wanted to have my own cooking show haha. So yeah I think basically I love being creative.
Leftover Inventory
Get your Charms, enamel pins, brooches, pendants, funky earrings and much more from leftover inventory. They have a huge variety of embellished brooches, motivational pins, cute enamel pins for kids and much more!
A Handmade Story
If you are a fan of cute handmade journals then a handmade story is a must check. She makes beautiful leather journals in all sizes and colours.
Muse
Bring nature to your interiors with these beautiful, live edge tables. Freshen up the vibe of your home or office with these unique rustic yet elegant features.
TMC- The Mummy Collectives
For all the mommies out there, TMC brings locally made outfits for your babies that are great quality, super soft, organic, well stitched and superbly priced!
As we welcome the winter wedding season, we have featured some designers and their luxury festive unstitched collection that will help you stand out this festive season.
Cresset is not your typical agency; they are strategic partners of fashion brands, who are wholly data-driven and results-focused. Cresset is passionately committed to comprehending the essence of fashion brands, whether it’s a budding newcomer or an established presence in the business world.
With so many feathers in your cap, let’s start with a brief introduction about yourself and a bit about your educational background.
I am from Lahore and spent over 25 years in the US. I pursued my undergraduate studies at the University of Connecticut in Finance & Accounting and attended graduate level courses at Harvard University. I began my career in finance, specifically within Hedge Funds and Investment Banking. Now, to simplify, I am engaged in the business of fashion and run a Venture Capital (VC) firm that invests in startups.
What is Cresset Tech all about and what key services does the company offer?
Cresset is Pakistan’s leading “Fashion Commerce” player. We provide end-to-end solutions, from revenue-based eCommerce management to brand strategy, manufacturing, distribution, retail expansion, and even last-mile delivery for fashion brands. Our Venture Capital (VC) arm enables us to aid in the growth of brands both locally and internationally.
How many brands do you have on board and can you name a few prominent ones?
We actively cater to over fifty (50) fashion designers and brands, both within Pakistan and globally. Some prominent names in Pakistan include Farah Talib Aziz, Nomi Ansari, Ansab Jehangir, Mohsin Ranjha (MNR), Annus Abrar, Zain Hashmi, and many more. Internationally, we service names like Forever 21, Kylie & Kendall Jenner, just to name a couple.
What strategies do you use to create an emotional connection between customers and the brand?
A study by the Harvard Business School (HBS) concluded that in the 21st century, relationships are the backbone of business. For the last decade, our mantra at Cresset has also been the same. We focus on experiential marketing rather than a product push. Our motto is to be “empathetic,” providing unparalleled service, thus creating an emotional connection.
What sets your business apart from competitors?
Technically, we have no direct competition. With a human capital strength of 400 across five countries, Cresset is highly vertically integrated in all aspects of the fashion business. While other firms focus on just one aspect of what we do, none provide even half the spectrum of services as Cresset. While we wish the best to others, our only competition is within ourselves.
Why is brand management important to a business in your opinion?
A brand is a uniquely recognizable identity that distinguishes itself from others. A well-positioned brand’s persona and ethos are experienced without being spelled out. To strategically achieve this is the art of branding/brand management. Brand positioning/management is the soul of the brand, the single most important aspect.
What marketing metrics do you value most for brand management?
We believe in a balance of both quantitative and qualitative metrics. While numbers are paramount and easier to measure, it is equally important to track qualitative aspects such as emotions, feelings, and feedback.
Describe a typical work week and how do you spend your weekends?
The beauty of my entrepreneurial journey is that it has no “typical” week, and I love that about it. Depending on the week, it could involve traveling to three different countries, attending client meetings between Karachi and Lahore, or a retail store launch. There’s no such thing as a weekend for an entrepreneur.
Your favorite travel destination? Any memorable moment you’d like to share?
Zanzibar! From snorkeling to hiking and safari, it offers the best of all worlds. The whole vacation was memorable and a great experience.
We always see you very well dressed; is it a personal preference?
Tom Ford said, “Dressing well is a form of good manners.” I feel as comfortable in a suit as in a pair of denim. Coming from a finance background and now in the business of fashion, my career choices have shaped my sense of style.
What fragrance would Asad wear to turn heads at a meeting/conference and at the beach/party/or at the coffeehouse?
Chanel (Bleu) has been my go-to cologne since its launch a decade ago. Depending on the time of day and occasion, I also wear Creed (Aventus) and Clive Christian (No.1 Masculine).
How do you envision the future of your business?
Cresset has been on an upward trajectory since its inception. Despite the ever-changing market, we’ve experienced exponential growth. As long as we, as an organization, continue to evolve in both business fundamentals and technology, I foresee continued growth.
Are there any upcoming projects or expansions?
Absolutely! The only constant in life is change. We’re constantly expanding within Pakistan and internationally, through both eCommerce and retail networks. I can’t disclose exact details, but here’s a hint: “Thou shalt love thy neighbor.”
What advice would you like to give to our readers?
I’ve learned that we are all a product of our unique life experiences and circumstances, so I refrain from giving direct advice. Sincerity to others, passion for your career, and humility in success always yield positive results. Patience and resilience are key ingredients in building character.
Relive the glamour from the Sunsilk Beauty and Wedding Showcase with these unforgettable highlights!
Mint & Co.
Bari Bridal Trunks:
Elevate your bride to the true shehzadi she is with these lavish wooden trousseau trunks. These grand trunks feature gold laces, sturdy brass handles, red, orange and mauve Jamevar cloth exteriors. Inside, the soft silk interior provides ample space to accommodate all the gifts and bridal lehngha.
The Lens Company:
With the wedding season just around the corner, get your personalised wedding filters for Instagram by the lens company. Make your events fun and memorable with these cute filters and exclusive at the same time!
Hermosa By Ana:
Hermosa by Ana just launched their elegant, chic and opulent, limited Edition’23 bags, studded with the finest rhinestones, making them the perfect accessory for your most cherished occasions!
Team GT had a meaty adventure at the Carnivore Restaurant in Lahore. For all the meat lovers, this place is a must visit as they specialise in serving the most delicious and juicy baked meat dishes that you’v ever tasted!
The hottest trends for this fall and winter seasons is the cropped jackets be it in any style or texture as bringing an unexpected twist to a classic clothing piece will turn heads this winter season!
Many designers are sticking to the early ’90s era as their inspiration for this year, many clothing pieces are coming back for another moment in the spotlight. One of these pieces is the cropped jacket.
Style them with flared jeans, pants, straight pants & mini skirts!
Our bridal collection “Koh-e-Noor” is a masterpiece that redefines wedding wear, its delicate hues and intricate details, this ensemble is a testament to timeless beauty. Step into a world of pure enchantment with our bridal campaign. A moment, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Alishba & Nabeel bridals capture the ethereal essence of dreams, with flowing fabrics and exquisite details that transport you to a magical realm.
Photography: Azeem Sani
Makeup: Qasim Liaqat
Muse: Hira Mani
Luxurious and sophisticated feel, making it a perfect choice for a collection focused on timeless elegance and glamour.
Photography @guddushani
Video @oneo1branding
Muse @sadiakhanofficial
Makeup @aana.akhan
Stylist @kaainatkhan__
Coordination @aamirmazhr
#salmakhan #couture #gowns #eveningdress
Call us for appointments
+971 4 385 4741 +971 5 0456 9553 (Dubai)
Carnivore Restaurant from Islamabad opens its doors in Lahore! A meaty adventure it was and a delight like never before. Pr: Rubia Moghees
Here are our top picks from their menu:
- Feta Cheese Bites
- Loaded chicken & cheese fries
- Chicken Farci
- Chicken Lasagna
- Blueberry Cheesecake
Ash Beauty Boutique — A one-stop destination for all things beauty! This salon is located in Phase 6 Lahore and here are our some of their services which are a must try!
Imad did his MBA in International Business from University of Greenwich, UK and is an Executive Diploma holder in Digital Strategies for Business from Columbia Business School, USA. Imad is an experienced
E-commerce and Digital professional with a strong track record of driving sustainable growth for 15 years in the UK and Pakistan. Skilled in building robust digital commerce foundations, rapidly scaling business and operations, leading team transformations, and achieving aggressive yet profitable growth.
Imad, tell us a bit about your educational background and how you end up becoming an experienced Ecommerce and Digital professional?
Having grown up in the digital age, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and business. This led me to pursue a BA Hons Marketing Management, MBA International Business, and an Executive Diploma in Digital Strategies for Business. After graduating, I began my career as a Digital Media Strategist at Groupon, where I gained valuable experience from one of fastest growing ecommerce companies back in 2010.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with leading global companies like Tesco and Unilever, where I’ve led and executed successful digital commerce and marketing strategies. My educational background, professional experience, ability to adapt to emerging technologies, and passion for staying ahead of industry trends have been key factors in my career progression.
Ecommerce and the digital industry are the two most in demand careers nowadays, are there any specific skills required to excel in these fields?
Absolutely. The ecommerce and digital industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to have a strong foundation in the fundamentals, such as:
Digital marketing: This includes understanding the different digital channels, tools and platforms, as well as the best practices for reaching and engaging target audiences.
Data analytics: The ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data is essential for making informed decisions about digital marketing campaigns and ecommerce strategies.
Technical skills: A basic understanding of coding and web development is helpful, but not required.
Project management: The ability to manage complex projects under tight deadlines is essential for success in the fast-paced ecommerce and digital industry.
In addition to these core skills, it’s also important to learn more about customer acquisition, conversion optimization through the right value propositions and content creation. The ecommerce and digital industry is fast-paced and constantly changing, so it’s important to be able to think outside the box and be creative, innovative, and adaptable.
What is the meaning of digital transformation, and how is it different from digital marketing?
Digital transformation is the process of using digital technologies to improve business processes and create new value propositions for customers. It’s about more than just adopting new digital tools and technologies. It’s about rethinking the way you do business and using technology to enable new and innovative ways of working – by reshaping processes, culture, and customer experiences.
Digital marketing is a subset of digital transformation that focuses on using digital channels and platforms to reach, engage and convert customers. It includes a wide range of activities, such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing, and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.
What are some of the most important elements of an effective ecommerce website?
An effective ecommerce website should be:
User-friendly: The website should be easy to navigate and use, with a clear and concise checkout process. Fast loading times and intuitive design are crucial too.
Mobile-friendly: More and more people are shopping online using their smartphones, so it’s important to have a website that is mobile first.
Secure: Customers need to feel confident that their personal and financial information is safe when shopping online. Make sure your website uses HTTPS encryption and has a valid SSL certificate. This is essential for customer trust.
Visually appealing: Your website should be visually appealing and reflect your brand identity. Use high-quality images and videos to showcase your products and services.
Well-written: The content on your website should be compelling and informative. Make sure to include clear and concise product descriptions, as well as helpful blog posts and articles.
Lastly, effective SEO, personalized recommendations, and conversion optimization techniques can significantly boost conversions. Regularly analyzing data to make improvements is an ongoing process for success.
What is your experience with using marketing automation tools?
I have extensive experience with using marketing automation tools, such as HubSpot, Marketo, Mailchimp and Eloqua. I’ve used these tools to create and execute automated marketing campaigns across a variety of channels, including email, social media, and paid advertising.
Marketing automation tools can be incredibly effective for saving time and improving the efficiency of your marketing campaigns. I utilized them to improve customer engagement and drive sales – the results included a significant increase in traffic, conversion rates and our overall ROI. They can also help you to build the right customer segments, personalize your messaging and target campaigns more effectively.
We want to start using video content on our website to provide customers with more information about our products. What type of video content would you suggest we start with?
Here are a few types of video content that you could start with:
Product demo videos: These videos showcase your products in action and highlight their key features and benefits.
Customer testimonial videos: These videos feature your customers talking about their positive experiences with your products or services.
Educational videos: These videos provide helpful information and tips on how to use your products or services.
Behind-the-scenes videos: These videos give your customers a glimpse into your company culture and how your products or services are made.
Remember to keep videos concise and visually appealing. High-quality production values are essential to make a positive impression. You can also use video content to promote your brand and tell your story. For example, you could create a brand video that highlights your company’s mission and values. Or, you could create a series of videos that tell the stories of your employees and customers.
What are the key fundamentals when creating content for various digital platforms?
Creating digital content involves understanding the audience and platform. I’ve created content for websites, social media, email campaigns, and more. Usually following these key steps:
Audience Analysis: Identify the target audience’s interests, pain points, and preferences.
Content Strategy: Develop a content plan aligned with business goals, including topics, formats, and distribution channels.
Creation: Produce high-quality content, whether it’s blog articles, videos, infographics, or social media posts.
Optimization: Ensure content is optimized for SEO, readability, and engagement.
Distribution: Share content across relevant platforms and channels, including social media, email newsletters, and content syndication.
Measurement: Analyze content performance using analytics tools to refine future content strategies.
I helped several brands to create content that connects, engages and sells to the relevant target audience.
How do you see technology evolving over the next decade?
Over the next decade, technology will continue to transform industries. We can expect:
AI and Automation: Widespread adoption of AI for innovative and personalized products and services, task automation, and data analysis for decision making.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Enhanced AR and VR experiences for marketing and customer engagement.
Blockchain: Increased use of blockchain for secure transactions and supply chain transparency.
5G: Wider implementation of 5G, enabling faster internet speeds and new opportunities for mobile experiences.
Data Privacy: Stricter regulations and heightened focus on data privacy and security.
Wearable Devices: Smartwatches and fitness trackers collect data about our health, fitness, and activity levels. This can be used to improve our health and well-being, as well as to create new and innovative products and services.
Sustainability: Technology-driven solutions for sustainability and environmental impact.
Adapting to these changes will be crucial for businesses to remain competitive.
What are the key steps to start a digital transformation project?
Define your goals and objectives. What do you want to achieve with your digital transformation project? What are your specific business challenges and opportunities?
Assess your current state. What are your current digital capabilities? What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Develop a digital transformation strategy. This should include a roadmap for how you will achieve your goals and objectives. You should also identify the key technologies and resources that you will need.
Build a team. You will need a team of people with the skills and experience to execute your digital transformation strategy. This team may include people from different departments within your organization, as well as external consultants.
Communicate with stakeholders. It is important to communicate with your stakeholders throughout the digital transformation process. This will help to ensure that everyone is on board with the plan and that you are able to get the buy-in and support that you need.
Execute your strategy. Once you have developed your strategy and built your team, it is time to start executing your plan. This may involve implementing new technologies, changing business processes, and training employees.
Monitor and measure your progress. It is important to monitor and measure your progress throughout the digital transformation process. This will help you to identify any areas where you need to make adjustments.
Here are some additional tips for starting a digital transformation project:
Start small and scale up. Don’t try to do too much too soon. It is better to start with a few small projects and learn from your mistakes.
Focus on the customer. Digital transformation should be about improving the customer experience. Make sure that your projects are aligned with your customer needs and goals.
Be flexible and adaptable. The digital landscape is constantly changing, so it is important to be flexible and adaptable in your approach.
Be patient. Digital transformation is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and effort to achieve meaningful change.
Can you mention any examples of ecommerce companies that inspire you? And why?
Certainly! Several ecommerce companies serve as inspiring examples due to their innovative approaches and remarkable success. Here are a few:
Amazon: Amazon is a pioneer in the ecommerce industry. They are constantly innovating and expanding their offerings to meet the needs of their customers. For example, they were one of the first companies to offer free two-day shipping, and they have also developed a wide range of private label products. Amazon is also a leader in cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
Alibaba: Alibaba is the largest ecommerce company in China. They have built a massive ecosystem of businesses that includes online marketplaces, cloud computing services, and payment processing. Alibaba is also a leader in big data analytics and artificial intelligence.
Shopify: Shopify is a leading ecommerce platform that makes it easy for businesses of all sizes to sell online. Shopify provides merchants with everything they need to start and grow their online businesses, including a website, payment processing, and shipping tools. Shopify also has a large and active community of merchants and developers who share tips and advice.
Zappos: Zappos sets the standard for exceptional customer service. Their dedication to customer satisfaction, including free returns and a unique company culture, sets them apart.
Shein: Shein is a fast-growing ecommerce company that is known for its wide selection of affordable clothing and accessories. Shein uses technology to quickly identify and respond to trends, and to streamline its supply chain. For example, Shein uses artificial intelligence to analyze social media and sales data to identify trends. Shein also uses robots to automate tasks in its warehouses.
I am inspired by these companies because they are using technology to innovate and improve the customer experience. They are also using technology to make ecommerce more accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Any advice you would like to give to our readers in the digital and ecommerce space?
Certainly. Here are some key insights based on my latest project with Tehniyat Salman, a digital native fashion startup:
Focus on your niche. By focusing on a specific niche, you will be able to attract a targeted audience and build a loyal customer base.
Leverage Direct-to-Consumer and Marketplace: Consider launching your business with a website and/or seller page. This approach allows you to have more control over your brand, customer experience, and data, which can lead to rapid growth.
Invest in digital marketing. Digital and influencer marketing can be a very effective way to reach, engage and convert target customers. Understand your audience, craft compelling ad creatives, build brand awareness and continually optimize your campaigns for better results.
Provide excellent customer service. Providing excellent customer service is essential for building long-term relationships with customers.
Use data to drive your decisions. Implement robust analytics to track your ecommerce performance. Continuously analyze data to identify what’s working and what isn’t.
Stay Agile and Adapt: The digital landscape evolves rapidly. Be prepared to adapt to new technologies and trends.
Be patient and persistent. It takes time and effort to build a successful digital business. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep working hard and learning from your mistakes.
Starting a digital-first business requires dedication, creativity, and a strategic approach. Hope the above lessons from Tehniyat Salman’s journey will help you take the right steps forward.
Step into a world where tradition meets modernity, where sage advice intertwines with breathtaking design. Say Shaadi Mubarak and discover “aath baatein”, where age-old wisdom meets contemporary style for the modern man. From opulent sherwanis that exude regal elegance to kurta pajama ensembles that breathe comfort and charisma, As grooms embrace these words of insight, they adorn themselves in more than just clothing; they drape themselves in the richness of experience, merging culture, and celebration seamlessly.
Designer’s Note
Me mohsin and my brother Abu Bakar designed this collection keeping our rich wedding traditions in mind. We constantly see in the media at large talking about the ideal wife and advice geared towards them. We instead thought of reversing it all. Embracing our “8 Baatein” grooms nikkah wear collection isn’t just about style, it’s about honouring traditions that hold wisdom for life’s journey. In a world moving at lightning speed, this campaign carries the essence of advice that resonates today-respect, understanding, and patience. And each piece of clothing too is a testament to the harmony of tradition and modernity, reminding us that embracing timeless values can illuminate our paths in any era. Here’s to stepping into the future with hearts rooted in traditional wisdom.
Designer/Brand: @hauteformstudio
Photography: @stopstyleofficial
Muse: @sadafkanwal
Stylist: @yasserdarrr @yash645
Makeup: @syedhussain_mua
Jewellery: @kundan.co
Pleasetell us about your journey into acting and what inspired you to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?
Unexpected! I was discovered in a casual meeting with Sultana Siddiqui. I was looking at the possibility of being a host or anchor and her keen eye saw an actor in me. A week later I got a call from HUMTV that I had been cast in a drama.
Now, I had been in the entertainment industry since I was a teen, with Radio and TV anchoring creating an appreciated recognition. I had never thought of acting as I had only grown my public speaking and effective communication skills through both media. So I tumbled into acting and realized that this is what I was born to do!
What types of acting roles do you find most challenging and enjoyable, and why?
The most challenging roles are where there are ‘not so committed to the project’ team members. You have to become a stanchion to stabilize the outcome. It saps a lot of energy out of you and that is challenging. And no, I can’t just turn a blind eye to unprofessionalism just to run the kitchen, that is not who I am.
It is so fulfilling to get the chance to act along side the magnificent true actors. The passionate maestros, young or seasoned, when they are my co-actors, you can literally feel the goosebumps in the interaction! This is lovingly called chemistry these days.
Can you share a memorable experience from a recent acting project that had a significant impact on you as an actress?
In my 9 years as a TV actor, the experiences that have made me smile, with a pat on my back have been
a). Acting opposite Nauman Ejaz in Dumpukht (I consider him my mentor, a guru and co-acting as his peer I would either raise my bar much higher to match his brilliance, or fail hopelessly)
b.) Acting opposite Yumna Zaidi as her mother (a sexually exploited woman), misunderstood and hated by her daughter, desperately trying to protect the young woman from being tormented the same way. The range of emotions I got to present and react to were phenomenal!
c.) Currently on air, Fairy Tale season 2 presented a satire of my character taking inspiration from over-the-top saas bahu soaps. Ensuring, that the fine line between inspiration and roasting was not crossed, respecting the culture being represented, and then trying to keep a straight face while emoting overly dramatic facial expressions and vocal modulation was so so hard but delightfully memorable! (Hamza, Sehar, Amna and I were in stiches, breathless and had tears of laughter cascading down our faces after each take!) Hats off to Ali Hassan for making it look so effortless in the drama.
How do you prepare for a new acting role?
I say goodbye to Saman Ansari and become that character. And if it is unlike something familiar to me, I research it, observe it and then implement it. This is also why I never do more that one project at a time, I don’t have an on off button, so once I delve into the character I am playing for a drama, I am only able to wean it off at camera close.
Acting often involves working with diverse teams. How do you collaborate and build chemistry with your co-stars and crew members?
A professional team knows that the success of a project depends on everyone doing their job passionately. And yes, in the real world there are often times where you need to adjust to some one or the other not doing the team justice. If it is an actor not focusing on their dialogues or respecting the etiquettes of being on set, the Director makes a call on that. If its some one from the production team, you can bring that to the notice of the head of production. My mannerism on set has always been immense respect for every team member from spot boy to a super star and complete dedication to my work. If that means I don’t partake in green room gossip or hanging out between scenes to conserve my performance energy, I am very comfortable with that.
Can you describe a particularly challenging scene or role you’ve had to portray and how you overcame the challenges it presented?
Sitara Mir in Khaani was a highly challenging role. I started from a coy, bureaucratic, arrogant, ruthless trophy wife of a Politician who was much older and the doting, liberal, mother of a thoroughly spoilt young man who looked more like a sibling than son to a grieving humbled widow and repenting, humiliated mother. It wasn’t just the 180 degree shift in look and emoted personality, it was ensuring that every moment of it became believable for the viewers, and that was the real challenge.
In the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, how do you stay relevant and adapt to changing trends and technologies?
I read, I watch and I learn – every day. I implement selectively, so yes, I am active on social media as it has this unspoken bond with our drama industry casting and ratings, but I do not follow trends unless I can relate to them. Yesterday my drama was being viewed by Gen X and Z, today I have a new audience especially with Fairy Tale 2, its Gen Alpha! So yes, when I am out and about, it’s the preteens and younger who recognize me before their mothers or grandmothers do.
What do you believe are the most important qualities or skills that an actress should possess to excel in this profession?
To be able to adapt to the character by letting go of their own personality. Yes, you have beautiful bouncy layered hair, but if you are playing a young woman from a lower middle class economic income group, you will not do cleaning the veranda with a perfectly blow dried head of hair! Observe and implement. And, please focus on the clarity of your speech. Accents are not dialects. Please take speech classes, please learn how to modulate so you can whisper with clarity and throw your voice without screaming.
Diversity and representation are important in the entertainment world. How do you see your role in promoting diversity and inclusion in your work?
I am always open to any project, or character that is as far from Saman Ansari as possible. I am equally thrilled to work with new talent or veterans. In Badshah Begum I was a cold blooded 70-year-old lady of the throne in a rural land, in Sammi, I was a raw villager in her early 30s who had 5 living daughters out of 8 pregnancies all in the hope of a son to be born. That to me, is diversity, it includes lives, of people we may have never heard of, met or known, and yet we represent them thus for me, this is inclusion of diversity.
Finally, what are your future career aspirations and are there any upcoming projects?
I would love to do more theatre, that for me is the apex of fulfillment in acting as it is a live exchange of energy between the performer and the audience.
I am reviewing a couple of drama story lines right now and will choose one to pursue once my commitment with the current Fairy tale 2 is over.
Wouldn’t mind trying my acting talent in a film. It’s called the directors medium, I think that would be a larger than life opportunity to enhance my potential in acting, to perform and most importantly to learn from what dreams are made of!
Ayesha Salman of Ash Beauty Boutique hosted an open house party for her friends at her salon in phase 6, dha Lahore.
Masarrat Misbah cosmetics reveals fragrance collection for all hence celebrating it’s debut launch event nationwide here in Karachi at Alliance Francaise. Masarrat Misbah expressed her sentiments towards the new venture with a wide range of lasting fragrances. Representing women’s collection was the beautiful, Amar Khan while the men fragrance collection was revealed by the talented, Usama Khan.
