Tuesday 26 October 2010

Ghana UK Based Achievement (GUBA) 2010

 

The Ghana UK Based Achievement (GUBA) Awards took place on Sunday 24 October at the Porchester Hall in Bayswater, London, England. This event had been organised by the Nudent Quality Solutions. 

This was the first year of the annual awards ceremony. GUBA was formed to acknowledge and celebrate the best of Ghanaian businesses, associations and personalities based in the United Kingdom. Over the years, UK based Ghanaian individuals and businesses have not received as much recognition as they deserve, however GUBA is set to change that.

The visionary of GUBA was Dentaa, one of the most popular TV personalities of OBE TV.  Dentaa has over 10 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Recently she hosted one of the most popular Ghanaian talent search show 'Mentor IV'. 

                                                  Dentaa at GUBA image by fabphotography

The Patron for the GUBA Awards was none other then John Pantsil who plays for Fulham FC and Black Stars. He has recently set up a charity called the Pantsil Peace Kids Project (PPKP) which was also GUBA's nominated charity. The aim of the charity is to help promote peace by developing the physical, mental and social inclusion of children through football. The project focuses on African children between the ages of 8 and 12, who live within high risk conflict zones. John Pantsil noted that footbal was the number one sport in Ghana because 'it is the only game that unites Ghanaians,' adding that most children preferred playing football because it was a fair game.

                                               John Pantsil image by fabphotography

16 individuals and businesses where honored at the ceremony and they sure were proud to be Ghanaians. 

The Ghanaian Nurses Association (GNA) were the most enthusiatic group to be nominated. They took away the Best Association Award.

Belinda Owusu was awarded the Rising Star Award and Karen Boadu was recognized as the Best Student Achiever. Lecticia Obeng received the Pioneer Award.

As the only woman nominated in her category, Ama K. Abebese won Best Media Personality based on her signature talk show 'On the Sofa', which was also nominated for Best TV programming. Ama K has recently moved into film and will be starring in her first lead role in 'Sinking Sands', premiering in Accra, Ghana on 13 November at the National Theatre. 

                                      Ama K announced as winner image by Peter Hogan

Black stars received the Recognition Award for the part they played in the World Cup. The 2010 FIFA World Cup was held in South Africa. It was the first time it had been played in Africa, and many people were hoping that an African team would progress to the semi-finals. The Black stars became the third African team in history to reach the World Cup quarter-finals. They were greatly welcomed home by thousands of dancing and singing fans on their return back to Ghana after their game. Deputy Sports Minister Nii Nortey Duah told the players, 'You've really held high the flag of Ghana and the entire African continent." 

                                    Castro De Destroyer Featuring Baby Jet Asamoah Gyan
                                                               performing African Girls at GUBA 
                                                                   The highlight of the evening
                                                                   (image by fabphotography)

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Osibisa. Founded in 1969, Osibisa were one of the first African bands to become widely popular. The legendary band from Ghana made 20 studio albums; merging jazz, funk, fusion, Caribbean, R&B, Latino and African rhythms. The best known albums are: Osibisa (1971), Woyaya (1971), and African Flight (1981). It was a proud moment to see some members of the group on stage to receive the award.

                                                                 Osibisa image by fabphotography


A massive well done goes to the organisers of this event for having the determination to carry out this version and daring to step out. It goes without say, there is a wealth of talent within the Ghanaian community. 

I cant wait to GUBA 2011- BRING IT ON!!

Tuesday 12 October 2010

MADE OF HONOUR

THE MAKINGS OF A MAIDE OF HONOUR

Every bride needs a right hand man, a confidant, otherwise known as a Maid of Honour (MOH), to help her with preparations for the Big Day. However this role is not for the faint hearted, it needs to be undertaken by the right person, otherwise it could create more stress then its worth. When choosing the Maid of Honour, the bride should carefully consider the person who is best suited for the job from their family and friends.

There are different strokes for different folks, thus every bride has a different expectation of their Maid of Honour. It is best for the bride to know what she wants so that she can effectively communicate it. 

THE SELECTION PROCESS

Etiquette standards for selecting a Maid of Honour have relaxed over the years. The guide says that the sister nearest in age to you should be your Maid of Honour. However if your sister is much younger or not responsible enough to take on the role then you have to look elsewhere. If you would rather have a friend or another family relative take on that role then its better if you talk to your sister about this first. It may be more suitable to give her another position such as bridesmaid. Be sensitive to peoples feelings by communicating better to those around you.

It is now socially acceptable to have Co-Maids of Honour, Matron of Honour, Chief Bridesmaid or even a brother or male friend as Honour Attendant. If you are torn between your friends, you should think about sharing the role of the Maid of Honour. For example, one of your friends might be best suited to organise/ host your hen night, and the other can organise the bridesmaid activities or say a special reading at the church ceremony.

Take your friends personality into consideration. A strong personality might overshadow you and a shy personality might pacify you and not giving you an honest answer. 


QUALITIES TO LOOK FOR

There are certain qualities that a Maid of Honour should possess:

  • Trustworthiness 

Your Maid of Honor should be someone who you can tell your worries and secrets to knowing that they wont repeat them without your permission. Overall trust would have been earned if worth and integrity have been proven over time.

  • Responsible

There are a lot of tasks that the Maid of Honour will need to undertake.  An individual who can take care of their own matters, answer for their own action, agree to do something and do it, does not procrastinate and makes good judgement is best suited for this role.

  • Time Keeper

An individual who is generally good with their time. If a meeting has been scheduled for 6 pm you can depend on them to turn up on time not to arrive an hour or two later.  The Maid of Honour will also need to help the bride and bridesmaids keep to time.

  • Organised

Her ability to organise work is important. She will need to keep everything in order and remember important dates and documents.  

  • Team Work Ability

Planning a wedding requires team work from a variety of people (both party families, bridesmaids, groomsmen). All team players need to work together to achieve a successful wedding. The Maid of Honour has to keep the peace within the team and not be the fire starter.

  • Leadership Skills

Using her organisational and team work skills she will need to lead the bridesmaids through various wedding preparation activities. The Maid of Honour should be able to encourage others without being arrogant or too bossy. 

  • Financial Availability

Most brides try to find out cost cutting ways to stay within their budget. Unless you have the additional money to pay for your Maid of Honour and bridesmaids etc, your Maid of Honor should be at a financial place where she can foot the bill of her dress and perhaps the cost of your bridal shower and any other smaller additional costs. In saying this be sensitive to her financial concerns. If you want to offer her financial support try not to come across as being patronizing. 

[Ways to offer financial support: You could cover the cost of alterations or the cost of her gown or accessories]

  • An Encourager

Being in the limelight does not come naturally to everyone and the attention that a wedding can bring can be quite daunting. A bride needs a positive person who can encourage them every step of the way. Being around an overly pessimistic person can make one feel like their walking constantly with a dark cloud over their head. The Maid of Honour should be proactive and try to find solutions to problems rather than just finding faults. Problems may come but its how it is dealt with that determines a successful outcome.

  • Emotional Availability

Planning for a wedding can take you on an emotional roller-coaster  and you need support during the process. Your Maid of Honour should be emotionally available to you. However if she having a difficult time herself it maybe hard for her to be there for you and could cause tension within your friendship. Save the heartache/ headache and find someone else who can be there for you emotionally.

  • Physical Availability

The Maid of Honour will need to be on hand to either help answer phone calls, put together invitations or go shopping with you. It is possible to have a long distance Maid of Honour as long as she can help in some way from her location and make time in her schedule to help you out. 

If you find out that the person you had in mind to be your Maid of Honour is pregnant or will be a new mum by the time it is your wedding, then its best if you ask her  whether she would want to take on the role or not. Not all pregnant women will feel comfortable waddling down the aisle, bending down to try and straighten the train with their bump and leaky breasts. If she declines the offer she will be at least be grateful to you for having her in mind. 


MAID OF HONOUR DUTIES

- She helps the bride pick her wedding dress.
- Pays for her own dress and accessories.
- Hosts the hen's night or bridal shower.
- Signs the Marriage Certificate.
- She carries the groom's ring.
At The Wedding Ceremony

- Helps the bride with dressing and assists with the train,
- Assists with the bridal veil.
- Holds the bride's bouquet during the ceremony.
- Carries an emergency kit with needle and thread.
 - Carries extra nylons, a roll of tape etc...
 - Holds a copy of any special prayers.
 - Holds a copy of any readings for the ceremony.
 - She stands by the bride at the altar.
 - Supervises the bridesmaids.
At The Reception
- She is seated at the table of honour with the bride and groom.
- During the reception, she mixes with the guests.
- Is photographed as part of the wedding party.
- She dances with the best man at the reception.
- She helps the bride with her train during bridal dance.
- Helps the brides with train during photography.
- Gathers the single women for bouquet toss.
- Assists the bride in dressing for the honeymoon.
- Returning clothing items to the bride's home after the reception.
- May receive a shower gift and wedding gift from the bride.
Maid of Honor Duties Source: www.perfect-wedding-day.com 
Check out wedding.theknot.com for answers to your Maid of Honour (MOH) Questions.
I sincerely hope this has been useful to brides-to-be and those who have been given the role of being a Maid of Honour (MOH). It is a position that should be considered as a privilege and honour. If duties are carried out well, both the bride and her MOH will be left with fond and lasting memories.

HAVE FUN & ALL THE BEST!!

Wedding dress shopping Pt 2

Wedding Dress Silhouettes & You
There are so many choices available that it is easy to get confused and frustrated when wedding dress shopping. Not every dress is equally suited to every bride. Knowing what shape you are looking for saves time, money and effort. However you have to know the shape you are in order to find the shape your looking for. Knowledge of the shape of your body will determine the kind of dress that will enhance your overall appearance. 

Knowing Your Shape
The best way of knowing your shape is by focusing on your silhouette (the outline of your body). There are 3 basic body proportions that are based on body measurements- Linear, Curvilinear and Curved. These body proportions are presented in 5 ways - triangle (pear, spoon, bell), Inverted triangle (apple), rectangle shape (square, ruler), hourglass and rounded.
Linear- minimal shaped waist with dominate shoulders and sometimes a bust line.
Presentation: inverted triangle (apple), rectangle (square, ruler) and rounded. 
Curvilinear- partially to a well defined waist with a more narrow shoulders, bust line and fuller hips.
Presentation: Triangle (Pear , spoon, bell).
Curved- a well shaped waist with equal proportions on the top and bottom.
Presentation: Hourglass shape.
The simpler way of checking your body shape is by getting expert advice from a sales person at the bridal store or you can do it yourself by going online: www.calculator.net/body-type-calculator.html It only takes 5 minutes and all you need is a measuring tape.

Wedding Dress Silhouettes 
Here is a guide of some basic popular wedding dress silhouettes and what body type they work for.

A-line 
The styles name comes from the triangle or A-shape between the narrow bodice and outer edges of the wide, ungathered skirt. The close fitting bodice can be strapless or have any type of neckline. The seam may be higher or lower than the natural waistline. A rounded jewel neck is a good choice for brides who wish to emphasize their bust.

Best for: Brides with small waists and those wanting to hid broad hips and large thighs.

Body type: inverted triangle (apple), rectangle (square, ruler), diamond, rounded, triangle (pear, spoon, bell) and hourglass shapes.






Image Source: www.projectwedding.com 

Empire/ Grecian Goddess
This style of dress has a very high waist. The raised waist creates a long line. The skirt can either be slim or slightly flared.  

Best for: The cropped bodice flatters the small-breasted woman. This style is ideal for the slim and petite brides.

Body Type: inverted triangle (apple), diamond and rectangle (square, ruler) shapes









Image Source: www.projectwedding.com 

Ball Gown
The traditional wedding dress with fitted bodice and a floor length voluminous skirt with a petticoat. Usually worn in a more formal setting such as a church. This style can overwhelm a petite or particularly buxom bride. A strapless bodice is ideal for brides wanting to draw attention to their face, collarbones, shoulders and arms.

Best for: Brides with a small waist-line and at least average height. Its great for hiding tall hips.

Body Type: inverted triangle (apple), rectangle (square, ruler), diamond, rounded, triangle (pear, spoon, bell) and hourglass shapes.





Image Sources www.media.onsugar.com 

Sheath
This style is a straight line, fitted dress from shoulders to the ankles. A boat neck follows the curve of the collarbone and can flatter women with smaller busts.

Best for: Tall or petite, slim-hipped brides.

Body type: Inverted triangle (apple).










Image Source: www.projectwedding.com 

Mermaid / Trumpet
A narrow fitted dress designed to show off a brides curves. The bottom flares out like that of a mermaid.

Best for: Tall slim brides; creates height for petite brides.

Body type: Inverted triangle (apple), rectangle (square, ruler) and rounded, triangle (pear, spoon, bell) and hourglass shapes.









Image Source: www.projectwedding.com 

Short / Tea Length
Short dresses that have a hem that is above or just slightly below the knee. This style is ideal for a more casual, less traditional wedding.

Best for: Brides with great legs and fabulous shoes!!











Image source: www.prlog.org 

REMEMBER: Try and go wedding dress shopping with one or two people. This can be useful in getting another perspective on the dresses as you try them on. Any more than two people can cause confusion in your decision making process. You are the one who has to wear the dress, if you try on a dress and you don't love it but another person thinks it looks good on you, then go with your gut instinct and keep looking. If you find that dress that does not fit into the categories that I have mentioned, but you look and feel great in it AND the price is right then GO FOR IT!!

Enjoy your shopping experience. 

All the best.

Sunday 10 October 2010

Miss Ghana UK 2010

Date: Saturday 9 October 2010

Contestants and their Numbers

1     Wendy tetteh-Squire
2     Prisla Ama Agymang
3     Sasha Ewuradjoa Barber
4     Tahra Akua Nketia
5     Ruwaydah seidu-osman
6     Denise Abena Hanson
7     Jacquelyne Adofo
8     Natallie Nsomah Ateere
9     Yvonne Akwetey
10   Diane Tuffuoh
11   Genevieve Offei-Ansah
12   Sheila Nortley


The Miss Ghana UK is a pageant show organised by the Miss Ghana UK Team and AKWAABA Promotions.This year's event was fourth time that the Troxy Theatre had hosted the Miss Ghana UK finals . The pageant show has been running for the last 17 years. It aims to build confidence in young Ghanaian women who are based in the United Kingdom and encourage the younger generation of Ghanaian's to stay in touch with their Ghanaian culture. 

The night was hosted by Kwaku Owusu frimpong, Sharon Boakye and Dentaa. Doors opened at 8pm and the audience were entertained with music from DJ's French Kiss, DJ Jobo, Invisible, Specialist and A Team. The night was also filled with Live Band performance by the Ozim Zim Band and upcoming artist Kay Dizzle, c-layzie, Jay Amore. The main sponsors were Money Transfer, Rainbow Radio, GRA, Stockgate, Sleek Hair and Maxighana.com. 

Among those present were Egypt (singer) and John Pantsil (footballer; who plays for the Ghana Black Stars and Fulham FC in England). Miss Sharon Sarpong (Miss Ghana UK 2009) came to grace the occasion and hand over her crown to the New Ms Ghana UK. 

The contestants looked gorgeous in all their outfits; my particular favourite was their evening wear. Even though fewer people came to patronize this year's show as compared to previous years, most of the contestants had been greatly supported by friends and family who cheered them on throughout. 

THE AWARDS
Miss Eloquence went to Sheila Nortley (Contestant No. 12). Best Traditional wear Denise Abena Hanson  (Contestant No. 6). The Contestants chose Sheila Nortley (Contestant No. 12) as Miss Personality 2010. 

Contestants: 8 (Natallie Nsomah Ateere), 9 (Yvonne Akwetey),10 (Diane Tuffuoh), 7 (Jacquelyne Adofo), 6 (Denise Abena Hanson) were the five selected out of the twelve ladies.

The first and second runner-up positions were respectively taken by Rose Diane Tuffuoh (Contestant No. 10), and Yvonne Akwetey (Contestant No. 9). 

Tonight Miss Denise Abena Hanson (Contestant No. 6) was crowned Miss Ghana UK 2010. The press and photographers took over, desperately trying to get their all important interviews and shots of the New Miss Ghana UK and the other contestants. 

                                            The New Miss Ghana UK - Denise Abena Hanson



Congratulations to the New Miss Ghana UK and WELL DONE to all those who took part.