Co-owner of Exquisite Events.
What brought you to Dubai?
I moved to Dubai 13 years ago to begin a career with Emirates Airlines. I always loved and had a passion for travel and had previously lived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. I was a flight attendant for 6 years and I loved every minute of it. It allowed me the opportunity to see the world for free. It was hard work and tiring at times but such an amazing experience, one I’ve never regretted.
How did you get into this profession?
I always had an interest in events and planning and when I felt ready to leave it was the first thing that I knew I would like to try my hand at. I completed a course in wedding and event planning and I knew it was the right choice straight away. Having the course and diploma behind me gave me the confidence that I needed to pursue this career.
Describe a typical day?
In this career there is no typical day! Every day is different depending on the events that we are working on. As a working mum there are typical things in my day like the school run but the other things in the day always vary.
And the worst?
This job can be very high pressured and there are times when the stress levels can be high, obviously in the build up to an event its fast moving and that can mean a lot of pressure. In truth though I don’t really have a “worst part” or I wouldn’t do it. You have to love this career to stay in it long term.
What was a stand out moment in your career?
I always say it, but I loved doing an event for the Royal family for New Year’s Eve two years ago, it was one of our very first events so it stands out in my mind. I think if you are given the opportunity to work for royalty there are very few other moments that can top that.
What advice would you give to any young person wanting to get into your field?
I would advise anyone looking to get into this field to definitely spend some time working with an event planner to see if it’s a career that you would really like as the workload and stress can be high and that’s not for everyone. I also would do an event and wedding planning course so you have an idea of what to expect once you begin.
Your motto
Be thankful for what you have and work hard for what you don’t have.