Life style

Bringing dreams to life!

Published

5 years ago

2021/03/7

Sahan Weerasooriya

by Zanita Careem

Q: When did you first realise you wanted to pursue a career as a jewellery designer?

I am an economics graduate and never really thought of diving into the jewellery business. However, I always wanted to be an entrepreneur. My parents were in the gem trade and I self-learned the different qualities of sapphires. We export superior, high-quality sapphires to the west, and I wanted to make these sapphires available to the locals – in the hope of designing their dream jewellery using these world-class gemstones. Thus, Aaraa and Aati was founded 4 years ago.

Q: Who are your biggest mentors in this industry and what is the best advice they have ever given you?

There have been many people who have helped me along the way and I am incredibly thankful for their support. But if I was to name an industry-level mentor, it would be none other than Naleem Hajjiar – with whom I had the fortune of spending some time during my childhood.

My Dad and Uncle regularly associated with Naleem Hajjiar and used to tell me loads of stories about him and about their experiences with him. I recall this one instance when I visited his house – he looked me in the eyes and said that there was something about me. And that has remained in my mind ever since! I always aspired to be like him! His high standard of ethics, honesty and integrity is something that I’ve always wanted to imitate. And I think that the best advice I’ve ever received from my mentors is to be honest in the trade; be ethical and make the customer your king.

Q: What was your biggest fear when starting a new jewellery piece to a customer?

Working with very high standards, the biggest challenge is to match reality with the concept given to us. Since we specialise in highly curated jewellery, it’s sometimes very challenging to bring someone’s dreams to life. But that is what makes us different, and that’s a challenge that we have been taking and have been successful in doing so.

Q: Have you ever dealt with a difficult customer?

Since we specialise in high-end, highly curated jewellery, every customer is aware of our standards and quality. It’s always lovely to work with the customers. The only difficulty we might face is in terms of their clarity i.e. if they aren’t aware of what they want for themselves. But that’s quite rare with our clientele.

Q: Who would you most likely see wearing your jewellery?

Our services are of the highest quality with the best value for money. Even on that level of standard, our products are very affordable. Our products are usually worn by married couples, corporate leaders, and mature jewellery masterpiece collectors.

Q: What are your unique designs? Where did you get your inspiration from?

We do not have readymade jewellery in the high-end category because we only focus on customised ones. But we have introduced a value-for-money collection called the Surf collection which features unique pendants using seashells. We have incorporated a sapphire – from the middle of the earth – within a sea shell – from the middle of the sea – and that, I believe, is really unique.

The inspiration behind the Surf collection was Sri Lanka and tourism because we are a lovely island with world-class beaches and I absolutely love the sun, sea and sand. Therefore, I wanted to create something for all the beach lovers out there.

Q: Which piece are you most proud of? Can you tell the story behind it?

The seashell pendants are what I am most proud of because it is unique – bringing two worlds together. Interestingly, the idea struck me when I was on holiday with my family in the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Walking along the beautiful beach, I noticed the lovely sea shells around me and was inspired to create beautiful jewellery with it. Adding sapphires to these gorgeous creations of nature make it even more special and rare.

Q: What qualities do you look for in the perfect pieces of jewellery?

It has to be handcrafted to the highest quality because there are machine-made goods that are selling for cheap. I’ve always appreciated handmade jewellery because it has the human touch. The rarity of the gemstone that goes in to your jewellery is another quality to look for. At Aaraa & Aati, all our high-end jewellery are handmade, and the gemstones are of international standard. Unlike most others, we do not try to save weight in a gemstone. Instead, our gemstones are well cut to bring out their spark.

Q: What’s your favourite piece of jewellery that you’ve made before and why?

Although we specialise in engagement rings, I have loved to make earrings with high quality gemstones – for the very reason that you need to find 2 pieces of gemstone similar in look and weight. And that’s pretty rare because gemstones are naturally occurring.

Q: What challenges do you face in your work?

One of the challenges that we face as an industry is getting high quality jewellery boxes manufactured in Sri Lanka. Not having a perfect box to showcase your jewellery after having done everything else perfectly is quite discouraging. I’m yet to find a high-quality, jewellery box producer. So if anyone reading this knows of someone who can be a perfect fit, please get in touch.

Another issue is that Sri Lanka does not position its gem and jewellery industry the way that other countries like Australia do. Australia has done an incredible job to promote its industry as ethical sourcing mines. Sri Lankan mines are ethical too but why aren’t we promoting it? We have to start collaborating with good PR firms to position our country as a source of ethical gemstone mining and trading. And that should be done immediately.

Q: Why only teal sapphire?

We deal in all kinds of sapphires but have been primarily exporting Teal to our customers. In my opinion, there are only 2 variants of sapphires where two colours mix well. One is the Padparadscha sapphire – a mixture of orange and pink, and the other is the Teal sapphire – a mixture of green and blue. No other two-coloured gemstone looks as good.

Q: Do u have more clients who choose teal sapphires?

Internationally, the teal sapphire is a huge trend. In Sri Lanka, the younger generation is increasingly opting for newer colours, having become bored of diamonds and blue sapphires. Thus, I see an upward trend in demand for teal sapphires in the future locally as well.

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Life style

Aslam Hussein’s Couture and Trousseau

Published

7 days ago

2025/12/21

Thilina Walpola

At Colombo Fashion Week,held recently at Cinnamon Grand,designer Aslam Hussein delivered a collection that spoke the language of quiet confidence and refined glamour, positioning him firmly as a Fashion Edit, favourite this season.

‘His collection unfolded like a carefully composed symphony – each piece moving with a rhythm of elegance and poise. Aslam Hussein’s runaway was more than a presentation – it was a story of refined luxury, individuality and timeless beauty where couture met emotion and each garment became a living expression of artistry.

Colombo Fashion Week was held this November at Cinnamon Grand ,namely Couture + Trousseau . The event was part of the luxury edit focused on high fashion,bridal wear and destination wedding,celebrating CFW’’s 22 rd anniversary Aslam Hussein opened the runway and his collection balanced sharp tailoring with fluid silhouettes, creating looks that felt both modern and enduring. Clean lines, thoughtful construction and an understated palette allowed craftsmanship to take centre stage. The colour palette was muted yet rich, allowing texture and craftsmanship to speak. Luxurious fabrics caught the light with every step, revealing subtle interplay between movement and form. Each silhouette told a story of – timeless, modern and effortless elegance

Aslam Hussein redefines elegance at CFW

Fluid silhouettes, muted palettes and clean tailoring defined his collection.

On the ramp,models moved with understated confidence, their hairstyles were created by. Ramani Fernando salons,the soft luminous makeup complemented the collection’s quiet sophistication. Each silhouette reflected Aslam’s commitment to craftsmanship, versatility and timeless style. Since establishing his label, he has been a staple on Sri Lanka’s fashion calendar, consistently presenting at Colombo Fashion Weeks and earning recognition for his designs.

His collection this year re-affirmed his mastery of understated elegance and contemporary luxury. Neutral tones were punctioned with occasion, deep shades, allowing fabric, cut and texture to take centre stage. Models carried the collection with measured poise. Make up was luminous yet natural, letting the silhouettes and individual model presence shine. Through his designs, Aslam Huseein has cultivated a following among modern cosmopolitan clientele who appreciate understated glamour, versatility and the quiet power of elegance.

His contributions have solidified his reputation as a designer who bridges Sri Lanka’s rich fashion heritage with an international sensibility.

Colombo Fashion Week is Sri Lanka’s premier event, showcasing the country’s top designers alongside emerging talent and is one of the glamorous events in the fashion landscape. The visionary is Ajay Vir Singh, founder of Colombo Fashion Week, whose leadership continues to elevate Sri Lanka’s premier fashion platform to international level.

Life style

Hairstyle maestro: Niroshan at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia

Published

7 days ago

2025/12/21

Thilina Walpola

Ramani Fernando salons is a name that has taken men and women’s grooming to new heights since its inception at Mount Lavinia. The salon has made its mark on the locals and celebrities alike. Over the years, Ramani Fernando Salons has not just set a benchmark for luxury grooming services but has also redefined how men perceive self-care, hair styling, and professional grooming. This salon at Mount Lavinia under its Manager Kappitiya Godage, namely Niroshan known by clients has become a favourite destination for those who sought more than just a haircut. The salon introduces a range of services—from precision styling and beard grooming to men’s makeup for photoshoots. The manager at Mount Lavinia is Niroshan Suresh. His philosophy emphasized that grooming is not just about appearance but also about confidence and self-expression and most importantly – self-care. He says make-up and grooming are not just limited to the opposite gender!

What makes Ramani Fernando Salon at Mount stand out. It is its innovative style and technique to men and women’s grooming. This branch prides itself on using cutting-edge tools and premium products that ensure every client leaves with a polished, customized look. The salon focus is on continuous learning and staying ahead of trends has earned it the loyalty of a discerning clientele.

Working at Ramani salons, Niroshan has spent many years perfecting the craft of styling, cutting and grooming men’s and woman’s hair, blending technical skill with a keen understanding of contemporary fashion trends. With years of experience, he guides clients on hairstyles and on the selection and proper use of styling products. His presence at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia reinforce the brand’s reputation for excellence but also highlights the vital role of a skilled male stylist in shaping men and women’s grooming culture in Sri Lanka.

In the evolving world of men’s grooming, where style isn’t just about guiding a haircut but crafting a confident identity Niroshan at Mount Lavinia represent more than just a stylist or a place to cut hair. With Niroshan at the helm, this salon has become a place where style, innovation and meticulous grooming are curated for any client who walks in.

He is part of Ramani Fernando salons creative team, and brings creativity and precision to every look reflecting the high standards of Ramani Fernando’s renowned beauty collection

Niroshan has been with Ramani Fernando for several years and he is popular among his clients for those seeking sharp, modern and personalised hairstyles. With many years of experience, he has combined technical expertise with an eye for current trends ensuring each client leaves the salon looking confident and polished, Niroshan begins with a consultation, he carefully considers face shape, hair texture and personal style before recommending a look: He tailors each style to suit individual preferences, while ensuring easy to maintenance.

Beyond haircuts and grooming, his services include beard shaping, scalp and hair treatments and guidance on styling products. He makes each client of his leave the salon not just with a haircut but walk with confidence. He enjoys seeing his clients happy and self-assured. His experience, professionalism and knowledge make him a standard stylist in Colombo’s competitive grooming scene. He is very grateful to his senior and dynamic hairdresser Kamal for his guidance and expertise and who has been instrumental in shaping his approach to styling and artistry

by Zanita Careem ✍️

Life style

The Kingsbury, Colombo, Welcomes Season of Splendour

Published

7 days ago

2025/12/21

Thilina Walpola

Seasonal cheer wrapped in tradition and luxury

The Kingsbury, Colombo, welcomes the festive season with a spirit of warmth, elegance and celebration. This year’s Christmas and New Year offerings have been curated to bring guests together through moments of comfort, connection and shared joy across the hotel.

Harbour Court sets the tone for the season with its Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet, Christmas Day Brunch and Christmas Dinner on 24th and 25th December, followed by the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet on 31st December and the New Year’s Day Lunch and Dinner Buffets on 1st January. Kings Steakbar brings festive fine dining to Colombo with its Sunday Gourmet Carvery every Sunday in December, the Christmas Gourmet Carvery on 24th and 25th December, an á la carte Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day and a Seven-course Gourmet Dinner on New Year’s Eve.

Yue Chuan offers authentic Chinese cuisine with its signature Peking Duck Experience throughout December, daily Dim Sum and a special All You Can Eat menu on 24th, 25th and 31st December. At Tenk?, guests can enjoy elegant Japanese cuisine with the daily Teppanyaki Show, festive á la carte menus on 24th and 25th December and a New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu. Ocean highlights the best of coastal cuisine with festive á la carte menus on 24th, 25th and 31st December. Bringing Sri Lankan authenticity to the season, Tavern presents an Arrack Tasting Experience throughout December.

Festive cheer continues outdoors at Honey Beach Club with live music from 19th to 23rd December, poolside Festive party packages, and the signature New Year’s Eve celebration “Dancing Into 2026,” featuring Infinity and DJ E2. At Sky Lounge, guests can enjoy elevated festivities with Corporate Celebration packages, festive set menus, seasonal cocktails and the New Year’s Eve event “Party in the Sky,” featuring The Kingdom. Seas

For those celebrating at home, The Kingsbury offers Seasonal Roasts and festive hampers, available both ready-made and customisable, while Indulgence provides five-star delivery throughout the season. Families can also enjoy special offers, with children below six dining free and children aged six to ten receiving 50% off buffet dining. Seasonal cocktails, wine menus and bottle deals are available across all outlets.

This year, The Kingsbury, Colombo, invites guests to embrace the season with kindness, hope and cherished moments. Whether dining out, gathering with loved ones or gifting thoughtfully, we are honoured to share a season of splendour with you.