An 11 year old entrepreneur was given the opportunity of a lifetime when she met Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the official opening of The Bride Show Abu Dhabi.
The youngest exhibitor to ever participate in the four day bridal extravaganza, Aisha Adel started her business when friends and family were bowled over by the way she decorated her school notebooks and ring binder files. Now, she creates a variety of different looks and sells them to school and university students and young professionals who want to add some sparkle to their working lives.
Aisha, who lives and goes to school in Abu Dhabi, embellishes notebooks and ring binder files with images of Victorian ladies, delicate lace, colourful ribbons and sparkling Swarovski crystals. Prices range from 80dhs to 200dhs and can be purchased direct from Aisha at The Bride Show Abu Dhabi this week.
“I was honoured to meet Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha at the opening of the exhibition and presented her with a gift of some limited edition designs,” said Aisha. “The visitors to The Bride Show love sparkle and lace so I hope they will like my take on stationery – they definitely brighten up a class room or board room.”
The second day of the eagerly anticipated bridal showcase was inundated with women from the UAE capital and beyond who came to see exquisite products and services from more than 200 regional and international exhibitors.
Four hours of haute couture, innovative Abaya designs, and prêt-a-porter lines delighted female visitors who came to gain inspiration for their wedding day celebrations and VIP society events.
Mauzan Abayas returned to The Bride Show Abu Dhabi following their successful catwalk show in 2008. The designers’ original slant on the traditional national dress was another hit with the delighted crowds. Elite fashion houses Scallini, Gawashi Fashion Design and Jana Style for Women were all met with rapturous applause as stunning design followed stunning design.
The Bride Show Abu Dhabi is showcasing top names and emerging talent until Saturday 24 January. On Friday, German retailer Cecile returns for their second catwalk show, having delighted the opening day audience. Visitors on Friday can expect to see designs from Elie Saab, David Fielden, Christian Lacroix, Jenny Packham, Manuel Moto Pronovias and Valentino share the catwalk in what is sure to be one of the highlights of the week.
Following Cecile is the highly anticipated show by Dar Sara, the fashion house pioneered by the UAE’s “King of Wedding Dresses” Ahmed Al Reyaysa. His bridal gowns have attracted attention from visitors for their flawless construction and exquisite detailing. While he won’t reveal exactly what to expect, Al Reyaysa has promised plenty of surprises for the captive audience.
With two days left of fashion shows and demonstrations unveiling both traditional and modern bridal looks as portrayed by a cluster of leading names, and many exhibitors offering exclusive discounts, The Bride Show Abu Dhabi provides the perfect venue for all women who enjoy fashion and beauty.
The Bride Show Abu Dhabi runs until Saturday 24 January 2009 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and is open from 2:30pm to 10:30pm daily. An entry fee of 10dhs applies.
The Bride Show Dubai takes place from 8-11 April 2009 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre.
