Mrunalini Rao Founder, Mrunalini Rao As someone who had a deep appreciation of art and craft at a young age, Mrunalini Rao would always integrate design elements in all her work. Her love for playing dress-up propelled her to channel her creativity, pushing her to sketch fashion illustrations and elaborate gowns. At the same time, she was also intrigued by human anatomy and its physiology. This led to a constant tussle between her passion for design and interest in science. However, she followed her intuition and pursued undergraduate studies in design at National Institute of Fashion Technology. She spent four years at the prestigious institute getting a better understanding of design. She mastered several crafts during this time, which led her to being recognised as the ‘best academic performer’ — an award that she received from eminent Indian designer, JJ Valaya. Her pursuit of design took her next to London–the fashion capital and Rao’s favourite city. While she had secured admission in the University of Arts London, she was already employed for over a year as an assistant designer. But there was a burning fire within to start her own label. That was the genesis for the label ‘Mrunalini Rao’, launched in 2014 and her prêt label, ‘Urí’ in 2020. For her, luxury means “comfort, a good design, craftsmanship and quality.” Her eponymous label offers a range of artistic, elegant and comfortable clothing in fusion and bridal wear, whereas her prêt label showcases sustainability. “LuxeBook is my go-to guide for all things luxurious, embodying timeless elegance and keeping me updated on the latest trends in the world of fashion.” Namrata Soni Celebrity Makeup Artist & Founder, Simply Nam A celebrated makeup and beauty artist, Namrata Soni boasts an illustrious career spanning over 25 years in the industry. She has had the privilege of working with the who’s who of the glamour industry—from some of Bollywood’s biggest stars to leading influencers. She’s also the first choice of brides and women of all ages who believe in her brand of artistry. Over the course of two decades, Soni has meticulously carved out a formidable personal brand, synonymous with talent, knowledge, and profound insights. She is a role model not just for aspiring young women looking to make a career in the beauty industry; but also, for established makeup and hair professionals who find inspiration in her journey. Soni also honed her craft at the Delamar Academy of Makeup in London, specialising in prosthetic and casualty makeup. In 2020, she unveiled Simply Nam, a brand that reflects her personal journey and insights as a makeup and beauty expert. Dedicated to the Indian woman, her brand takes into account the unique climate and lifestyle factors of the region and presents a curated collection of effective tools and ingredients. Soni’s craft has earned her adulation from several quarters, with her work gracing the pages of prestigious publications such as Vogue, L’Officiel, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Wallpaper magazine, Cosmopolitan and Marie Claire, among others. What does work-life balance mean to her, “Falling asleep, feeling really tired and exhausted, yet having to stay awake and talk to my husband about how my day has been,” Soni shares. “My definition of success is being proud of yourself when you go to sleep at night.” | 38 | 39
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