Aisha Leitner is the stylish mum of two beautiful children, Aliyah aged 6 and Kian aged 5. She is originally from Kashmir but moved to the UK at 16. After completing her studies in the UK she preferred to move away from the rain to warmer climates. In 2001, she moved to Dubai to work with Emirates Airlines working in the HR team, and travelling the world was a dream come true. After meeting her German husband, they decided to choose Dubai as the place to raise the children, and set up a business known as Party Camel, a brilliant ones-stop stylish party shop with items from brands also known to be stocked in famous stores like Harrods, London. She has certainly inspired me to put together better parties for the children, Christmas and Easter.
Which area of Dubai do you live?
The Lakes. We have recently moved here and lived at the Shangri-La hotel residence for more than 10 years prior. We are loving the “suburban” life as my husband likes to call it. The Lakes is a great community, ideal for families with small children as all facilities are available including after school activities and we love biking everywhere.
Which curriculum did you choose for your children?
After much consideration we opted for Dubai International Academy. It was a tough choice between this school and Kings Umm Suqiem. We decided on the IB curriculum for our children after much deliberation and we love the school they are at. It’s very multi-cultural, they get to study German as part of the curriculum (my husband is german) and the best bit is, they get to walk to school. Which I am delighted about.
How do you juggle being a mum of two and managing your own business?
With great difficulty, I really struggle to find a balance between work, spending time with my kids, my husband and my friends. (Me time doesn’t exist anymore) But im getting better, organization is the key I find and starting the day really early.
What inspired you to create Party Camel?
My kids, I love planning parties for them and trying to make their birthdays as special as I can. I always struggled to find stylish partyware and accessories in Dubai. In the end I decided to stop complaining and open a party shop, and ive been loving every minute of it.
What kind of services does Party Camel offer if let’s say I wanted to plan something for my 5-year old daughter?
We aim to be a one-stop party shop for all your needs. We offer of course all the partyware from cups, plates, napkins, decorations and party bags and more. All in one place, and you can order form the convenience of your sofa, we deliver the next day within the UAE. In addition we can do personalized party printables, and recommend awesome vendors where you can book a birthday cake, entertainers, catering and photographers.
What 5 tips would you give to a mum planning their child’s birthday?
Get organized at least one month before the party.
Choose a theme with the birthday child, it helps tie everything together.
Personalised party printables really do add the finishing touches to any party and make the birthday child feel extra special.
Hire a photographer if your budget allows or ask a friend to take pictures, as precious memories. This then means you are not running around trying to take pictures yourself but can rather relax and enjoy the party.
Finally invest in a good cake, either your time in making one or money buying one. Cake is important, do try to have your cake and eat it on the day. And most of all enjoy the whole process.
For more information please head to Party Camel to order for your next party.