Ramani Fernando talks on-

By Zanita Careem

Ramani Fernando, the face and visionary behind one of Sri Lanka’s most popular hair dressing destinations, Ramani Fernando Salons.

A definitely a self made business woman. Ramani is truly an inspiration to women to follow their dreams. A master of her passions, she has been making waves in the world of beauty from inception of her first beauty salon . She is a name synonymous with the highest standards of hairstyling and beauty in Sri Lanka. A fashionista, and renowned for her ability to transform the most sublime into masterpieces in terms of hairstyles,makeup,bridal dressing and all others related to beauty.

What hairstyle or makeup are trending in 2025?

This year, we’re seeing timeless styles like ultra bobs and soft, textured waves making a big comeback. They’re versatile and flattering for many. For makeup, glowing, natural skin paired with bold eyeliners or glossy lips is a winning combination—it’s about making a statement while keeping it fresh.

What are your go brands for makeup and skin care?

I love Charlotte Tilbury, Mac and Nars for makeup, they cater to diverse needs beautifully. For skincare, brands like Sothys,CeraVe and La Roche Posay are fantastic—they focus on effective ingredients and are easy to incorporate into any routine.

How do you stay abreast with popular trends in makeup and hairstyles this year?

I stay inspired by following global trends on platforms like Instagram and attending beauty expos. It’s essential to stay connected with the industry, so I often go through magazines and interact with other professionals.

How social media has helped you to be what you are?

Social media has transformed the way we connect with clients. It’s a platform to share work, showcase new trends, and inspire. It’s been a huge part of how I’ve built and maintained my brand.

Any challenges or struggles last year as a hairdresser?

Every year brings challenges, especially with staying ahead in a competitive industry. But it’s also exciting!

What’s old is new again? Your comments?

Trends like pin-up waves and winged eyeliner prove that classics never go out of style. It’s wonderful to see these looks being reimagined for today.

Environmental impact of various beauty products? As a beautician how do you embrace sustainable practices? What does sustainability mean to you?

As a beautician, I believe we have a responsibility to the environment. Using eco friendly products, minimizing waste, and supporting sustainable brands is a small step with a big impact.

Any plans for expanding any new services for clients this year?

We’re looking at expanding beauty services, scalp treatments and personalized skincare consultations.

Shift towards inclusivity and diversity is something we look forward, but what does it mean exactly when it comes to beauty salons?

It means embracing all skin tones, hair textures, and personal styles. Inclusivity isn’t just a trend; it’s about ensuring everyone feels represented and beautiful. Creating my salon that celebrates the uniqueness of each invidual and fostering a sense of belonging and self expression is something that will get me loyal customers all year around

The trend this year is expanding beyond traditional services salons all over follow to meet customer preferences and needs? Will you follow these trends?

Clients today want more than a haircut or makeup—they seek an experience. I strongly believe in adapting to these trends while maintaining the personalized touch that clients value. It’s not just about keeping up; it’s about anticipating what will make our clients feel cared for and special. If these additions enhance the client experience, then they are worth pursuing. Adding new services is a prominent trend that’s driven by evoving demands and client preferences.

Technology is taking over every aspect of our lives, its revolutionising the customers interact with salons and technology is enhancing customer experiences?

Technology has become a game-changer in the beauty industry, and salons are no exception. It is revolutionizing how clients interact with us and significantly enhancing their overall experience.

These technologies save time, improve accuracy, and elevate the salon experience. While innovation is key, the personal connection with clients remains at the heart of what we do. Technology enhances this connection rather than replacing it.”

Your personalised approach towards your customers have been your priority always. How will this change this year to build a larger base of loyal customers?

I always focus on personal approach—remembering a client’s preferences, offering customized recommendations. Building trust and rapport are keys to loyalty.

Do you believe in the adage, Comfort is king? Will you follow this personalised experiences for customers to make them extra special?

One of the most important hair salon trends that is gaining popularity is the emphasis on comfort . Customers arent buying simple haircuts ,they buy thewhole experience .Yes, absolutely! Making clients feel extra special with tailored experiences, from a relaxing ambience to personalized care are my goals always.

Ultra bobs, side partings, curls and waves, brands will be in vogue this year too? What are the hair colours in fashion this year.

“Colours like warm brunettes and platinum blondes are in. Hairstyles like side partings and ultra bobs are versatile and chic.

Make up colours. Is it bold or nude?

“This year, it’s a mix. Bold hues like cobalt blue make a statement, while soft nudes offer a polished, understated elegance.”

Biggest nail colour trends for 2025 and nail designers?

“Metallics, earthy tones, and 3D nail art are huge this year. Nail designs have become an art form, and clients love expressing themselves through it.”

Will shimmer in eye shadows are in ?

Shimmer is here to stay. Gold, bronze, and metallic pinks are beautiful for creating captivating, luminous looks.

Book before 31 January 2025 to enjoy exclusive wedding packages and unparallaled benefits Hilton Hotels in Sri Lanka has announced the launch of its unique wedding campaign, ‘Enchanting Beginnings,’ designed to make dream weddings a reality. Running throughout this month, this campaign offers couples an exceptional opportunity to celebrate their love with premium wedding packages and exclusive benefits across Hilton properties in Colombo and Weerawila.

Hilton Colombo

Hilton Colombo invites couples to celebrate their love with an exclusive wedding package available At the heart of the celebration is the Grand Marquee, a spacious and elegant venue designed to accommodate up to 300 guests. Perfect for both lunch and dinner receptions, the Grand Marquee offers special packages Fully air-conditioned for maximum comfort, this stunning venue provides breathtaking views of the iconic Beira Lake and the Lotus Tower, creating an enchanting backdrop for this special day.

Hilton Colombo Residences

At Hilton Colombo Residences, weddings are elevated to a new level of elegance, thoughtfully designed to reflect intimacy, sophistication, and heartfelt celebration. For couples planning a memorable event, the venue provides an exclusive wedding package offering exceptional value for an unforgettable experience (terms and conditions apply).

The venue combines modern technology with a touch of timeless charm. State-of-the-art audio facilities ensure every word and every note resonates perfectly. Drop-down multimedia screens, plasma displays, smartboards, and kiosks allow cherished memories to take center stage, while a customizable lighting system creates the perfect ambiance with a palette of colors tailored to the couple’s vision. For Muslim weddings, the ballroom offers flexible partitioning options, ensuring inclusivity and comfort for every guest.

Adding to the magic is the picturesque third-level poolside setting, where couples can capture timeless moments against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Lotus Tower. This serene and elegant location transforms every photograph into a work of art, immortalizing the most special moments of the day.

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

For couples envisioning a wedding that seamlessly blends elegance, tradition, and breathtaking beauty, DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort is the ultimate venue. Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Weerawila, this premium resort promises an unforgettable celebration, where every detail is designed to create cherished memories.

The resort’s highlight is the stunning Grand Rajawarna Ballroom, an expansive space accommodating up to 600 guests. With state-of-the-art audio, visual, and customizable lighting systems, the ballroom perfectly captures every heartfelt word and magical moment. Adjacent to the ballroom are two dedicated dressing rooms, offering the couple a private and comfortable space to prepare for their big day.

Couples can enjoy a worry-free journey with the resort’s team of experienced event coordinators managing every aspect of wedding-planning. From exquisite décor to delicious catering and lively entertainment, every detail is taken care of by the team, allowing the couple to fully immerse themselves in the joy of the occasion.

The natural beauty of Lake Weerawila provides a dreamy backdrop for wedding photography, transforming each snapshot into a timeless keepsake. The celebration doesn’t have to end there; as couples can embark on their honeymoon adventure, with some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic destinations just a short drive away. The enchanting wilderness of Yala and the misty hills of Ella are both within driving distance from the resort, offering an unforgettable start to married life.

The resort offers 72 elegantly designed rooms and suites for wedding guests, ensuring a stylish and comfortable stay. After the festivities, the on-site wellness spa provides a tranquil escape for relaxation and rejuvenation, perfectly complementing the joyous wedding experience.

Choose from our exclusive packages:

Bronze Package: Starting from Rs. 12,000 nett per person for a minimum of 150 guests. Includes Poruwa, Ashtaka, two drummers and four Kandyan dancers, Saubhagya table, and more.

Gold Package: Starting from Rs. 13,300 nett per person for a minimum of 150 guests. Includes Poruwa, Ashtaka, two drummers and four Kandyan dancers, Saubhagya table, and more.

About Hilton Colombo

Hilton Colombo is a premier city hotel renowned for its exceptional hospitality and versatile offerings. Whether for leisure or business, guests are welcome to experience unparalleled comfort and sophistication. The hotel boasts state-of-the-art conference rooms equipped with advanced audio-visual technology, uninterrupted high-speed internet, spider conference phones, guest-friendly lighting systems and bespoke coffee stations. Culinary options abound, with Graze Kitchen offering world flavors, SunsetBlu providing relaxed dining with stunning views, Emperor’s Wok serving authentic Chinese cuisine, and Cafe Kai offering grab-and-go delights. Entertainment options include Stella Karaoke Lounge and Bar and L.A.B. Lounge and Bar.

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Weerawila, DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort invites guests to indulge in a world of unparalleled relaxation. Featuring a range of exquisite dining options, guests can savor culinary delights at Spoonbill, the all-day dining restaurant, unwind with signature cocktails at Turnstone Bar and Lounge, and indulge in delectable seafood dishes at RedShank, the signature seafood restaurant. The Hornbill swim-up bar offers a tropical oasis by the poolside for those seeking a refreshing escape.

Jetwing Hotels hosted an insightful panel discussion on climate-friendly travel at their city hotel, Jetwing Colombo Seven. Moderated by Sashika Kaluwahewa, Manager of Sustainability at Jetwing Hotels, the panel featured distinguished guests, including Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB); Harsha Wickramasinghe, Deputy General Director of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA); . Sampath Jayawardena, Senior Director of Climate Change and Sustainability Services at Ernst & Young; and Hiran Cooray, Chairman of Jetwing Symphony PLC and The Lighthouse Hotel PLC.

This illustrious gathering brought together the public and private sectors to explore the future of sustainable and responsible tourism in Sri Lanka; driven by the escalating demand for eco-conscious travel experiences. The conversation was enriched by insightful questions from a diverse audience comprising public sector officials, media representatives, academics, travel industry partners, and representatives from development agencies.

Hewawasam advocated for a collaborative approach, emphasising the critical need for all stakeholders – from hoteliers and travel agents to suppliers and local communities – to work in unison. He stressed the importance of resource sharing and knowledge exchange to foster a truly integrated and sustainable tourism ecosystem. The Chairman of SLTDA and SLTPB alluded to a comprehensive marketing strategy designed to showcase Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings, effectively positioning the nation as a premier travel destination.

Wickramasinghe outlined a vision for Sri Lanka to achieve carbon neutrality in the near future, contingent upon strong public-private sector collaboration. He highlighted existing and forthcoming regulations, along Cside available climate financing mechanisms to support industry transition.

Jayawardena underscored the urgency for businesses to abandon traditional, unsustainable practices, warning of the dire consequences of inaction. He emphasised the evolving regulatory landscape, particularly in key markets like the European Union, and stressed the imperative for Sri Lankan businesses to embrace climate action to maintain relevance and competitiveness.

Veteran hotelier, Cooray, championed the positioning of Sri Lanka as a global leader in sustainable travel, with a unique focus on luxury and experiential travel. He highlighted the tourism industry’s pivotal role in driving sustainable development while showcasing the nation’s rich cultural and natural heritage. He also underscored the importance of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in promoting “slow travel” and encouraging exploration of lesser-known destinations within the island. Amidst growing global uncertainty regarding climate commitments, Cooray stressed the opportunity for Sri Lanka to emerge as a beacon of climate action.

The event celebrated several key milestones in Jetwing Hotels’ sustainability journey, including the recent investment to expand their solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity by 1.6 megawatts (MW) across their hotels in 2024. Since introducing its first 20-kilowatt (kW) solar PV system in 2010, Jetwing Hotels has steadily grown its renewable energy footprint to 925 kW across its properties and corporate office. The recent investment boosted the company’s solar PV capacity to 2.6 MW, tripling its solar energy contribution to 24% of total electricity consumption. This significant achievement brings Jetwing Hotels closer to its goal of reducing its carbon footprint and aligning with Sri Lanka’s ambitious renewable energy targets. Jetwing Hotels’ renewable energy strategy extends beyond solar power, incorporating biomass boilers, innovative steam-powered vapor absorption chillers, solar thermal systems, and biogas digesters into its operations which has enabled the company to generate 66% of its energy demand from renewable sources.

Jetwing Hotels’ recent solar PV expansion has garnered international acclaim, receiving accolades from both the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the International Centre for Responsible Travel (ICRT) for their climate action initiative. The global achievement from ICRT follows regional recognition within the Indian Subcontinent, further solidifying Jetwing’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism. These accolades not only enhance the brand’s reputation but also elevate Sri Lankan tourism and the nation’s image on the global stage.

With a legacy spanning over half a century in the tourism industry, Jetwing Hotels has established itself as a pioneer in curating unique experiences and offering legendary Sri Lankan hospitality. As a family-owned brand, Jetwing continues to be a leading advocate for sustainability and responsible tourism, with ongoing initiatives focused on community upliftment, environment conservation, and resource efficiency. The brand’s diverse portfolio includes a range of luxury hotels and villas, each offering a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.