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'FASHION' EDITION COVER - AUGUST 2026 ISSUE Photos: @oitawan / Hairstylist: @brunocampos.hair / Make: @biaribeirobeautys / Advice: @betinhoalvesassessor / Studio: @paradise.cenastudio On the day she turns 40, Carol Ribeiro seems more interested in what is yet to come than in taking stock of what has been left behind. There is no concern with turning her age into a statement. The moment seems to call for something else: looking at her own journey with greater clarity and realizing that there is no single way to be Carol. Her story spans fashion, communications, entrepreneurship, and management. Spirituality holds an important place in her life, as do horses, a passion that began in childhood. They may be different worlds, but in her, they share a common thread: identity. With a degree in Fashion Management, Carol understands aesthetics as a language she knows well. Her style moves between sophistication and western influences, femininity and strength, without the need to follow a single formula. There is a sense of repertoire, but also freedom. She knows what she likes and doesn’t seem interested in explaining every choice. That same confidence comes through in her work. Today, she is at the helm of her family’s construction company, where she handles management, decision-making, and responsibilities that are quite different from those associated with the fashion world. At the same time, she continues to develop projects connected to image, communications, and entrepreneurship. There is no attempt to make these worlds seem alike. They aren’t. What brings them together is the woman who moves between them. Perhaps that is one of the most interesting aspects of her journey: why should a woman have to choose a single definition of herself in order to be taken seriously? Carol doesn’t seem willing to make that choice. The same applies to her relationship with image. After so many years immersed in fashion, photography, and communications, she understands the weight of the external gaze. But today, there is a difference between building an image to be accepted and using it to express who you are. Away from the cameras, horses occupy a different place in this story. The connection began in childhood and has remained throughout the years. The equestrian world has also found its way into her aesthetic, particularly through western influences, but its significance goes far beyond image. There is a connection to nature, freedom, and a part of Carol that existed long before photography. It is precisely this combination that makes her journey so difficult to summarize. And perhaps it no longer needs to be summarized. A woman can run a company and remain passionate about fashion. She can be practical and intuitive, sophisticated and free, change direction without having to erase the path she has taken. Carol Ribeiro seems to have understood that identity is not about choosing one of these parts. It is about being able to live all of them. And perhaps that is the true luxury of not fitting into a box. At what point did you realize you were no longer building an image for others, but instead expressing yourself in a way that was more true to who you are? I think that realization came with maturity. For a long time, I worried about how I would be understood, what people expected of me, and even which versions of myself would be more easily accepted. Today, that has lost its importance. At 40, there is a kind of freedom that comes at a high price, but is incredibly beautiful: no longer needing to fit into a box. My image is still a form of communication. I love fashion, aesthetics, and photography, but today, it comes from the inside out. I don’t dress, position myself, or build an image to convince anyone of who I am. I simply express myself. Perhaps that is the great difference between being seen and recognizing yourself: being seen depends on someone else’s gaze; recognizing yourself depends on your own. 2. You move naturally between fashion, business, communications, spirituality, and the equestrian world. But for a long time, perhaps people expected you to choose just one of these versions of yourself. When did you realize you didn’t have to choose? When I realized they were never different versions of me. They are all parts of who I am. I can be at the helm of a family-owned construction company, make decisions, and deal with very practical responsibilities while, at the same time, being deeply connected to fashion, communications, spirituality, and horses. One does not cancel out the other. For a long time, there was this idea that, in order to be taken seriously, we had to choose a role and remain within it. I don’t believe in that. We are multifaceted.Fashion is a very strong personal signature for me; business is part of my development as a woman and a professional; communications allows me to build bridges; spirituality gives me direction; and the equestrian world connects me to something I have loved since childhood. I don’t need to choose between these women because all of them are me. For a woman who works with image, beauty can open doors, but it can also bring expectations. How has your relationship with your own appearance changed over the years? And what can you see in the mirror today that you perhaps couldn’t see before? Beauty has always been very present throughout my journey, especially because I work with fashion and image. And I think that when we are less experienced, there is a tendency to see beauty as something closely tied to external validation — those very common trends among younger people.Today, my relationship with my appearance is lighter. I’m still someone who cares about how I look, and I still love fashion, makeup, photography, and everything related to aesthetics. It is part of who I am, and I have no need to downplay that side of myself in order to appear more profound.But today, I understand that beauty without identity is very little. When I look in the mirror as I approach 40, I’m not looking for the 20-year-old girl I once was. I like the woman I see. I see history, personality, confidence, femininity, and, above all, identity. Today, I don’t want to look younger. I want to look more and more like myself. Faith and ancestry are part of your life and, in some way, also appear in the way you express yourself and make choices. In a routine that demands decisions, responsibilities, and results, do you still listen to your intuition? How much has it already changed the course of your life? Very much. My spirituality is not an accessory to my life; it is one of my foundations. I have a very deep connection to faith, ancestry, and to things that we cannot necessarily explain rationally. And that coexists perfectly with the practical woman I am, who needs to make quick decisions and deal with concrete results every day. To me, spirituality doesn’t mean abandoning reason. It means understanding that reason and intuition can work together.My intuition has already led me to change direction, close chapters, begin new ones, trust when there seemed to be no guarantees, and, above all, perceive things before they became evident. Some of the most important decisions in my life began with a feeling I couldn’t yet explain. Today, I listen to that voice much more closely. Reason helps me decide how to move forward; intuition, many times, shows me where to go. Is there a dream or desire that you feel even more ready to pursue today? Many. (Laughs.) I find it interesting because there is this narrative that turning 40 should make us more settled or cause us to lower our expectations. The opposite happened to me. I arrive at this age with greater clarity about what I want to build and, above all, about what I am no longer willing to compromise on in any way.I want to expand my projects in fashion and communications, grow professionally, pursue entrepreneurship, create things that carry my identity, and continue occupying spaces that, perhaps a few years ago, I never imagined I would. Motherhood is even on that list! I want to experience it very soon. 6. Finally, there is a voice that is also yours and goes beyond image, projects, and everything you have built so far. If you had the world’s attention for a few minutes, what would you want people to hear from you? I would tell people not to waste their lives trying to live up to what others expect of them. There is an immense sense of freedom that comes when we understand that we can change, start over, have seemingly contradictory interests, occupy different spaces, and still remain deeply true to our essence.I strongly believe in purpose, faith, hard work, and integrity. I believe success should not be measured solely by what we manage to accumulate or achieve, but also by how much of ourselves we are able to preserve while building it all.Understand the value of time and use it to your advantage. Leave positive marks wherever you go, don’t engage in unnecessary competition, study, have fun, work, experience a little bit of everything... The world is a place of infinite possibilities. What a tiny fraction of people think does not define anything!You don’t need to choose a single version of yourself to present to the world. Let’s be whole and multifaceted. And faith, my people — not religion, FAITH!

Bonjour, my dear readers. Back as a married woman! Chic, isn’t it? Photo Disclosure Today, I bring you a reflection I had right after my wedding, which then became part of a discussion in my bridal group: the expectations we carry throughout the wedding planning process regarding the day itself, the guests, the vendors, and every detail involved in the event may actually be responsible for our disappointment with the experience. As a bride, I can confidently say that my wedding was perfect. It was the most emotional day of my life, and I would do it all over again without hesitation. However, as a VENDOR, the story is different. On the wedding day itself and in the weeks that followed, I learned about many things that had gone wrong, which is completely normal at any event. Several things didn’t go according to plan, mostly small details, but neither my husband nor I are the kind of people who are easily shaken by life’s spontaneity. At one point during dinner, a rather complicated situation between some of my vendors left me extremely tense. I even started feeling a little unwell, but I took a deep breath and decided that I was going to enjoy the day, no matter what happened. Other brides, however, including some of my own clients, become devastated and spend much of their honeymoons crying when they realize that certain details didn’t go as planned. And let me be clear: I’m talking about details, not serious vendor mistakes, such as losing the wedding photos, ruining the décor, or a dress with a broken zipper. Here’s an example: we had newspapers made for the bride and groom that were supposed to be placed underneath the plates, so guests would find them as soon as they sat down for dinner. However, our venue forgot about them and never placed them where they were supposed to go. As soon as my husband noticed, we grabbed the newspapers that were still in the box, walked into the reception in the middle of dinner, and shouted, “EXTRA! EXTRA!” We had the pleasure of personally handing them to each of our guests. It became a memorable, hilarious, and completely spontaneous moment. That’s how we see things. Another bride might have been heartbroken because they weren’t placed exactly where they had been planned. Another example comes from a wedding I worked at last week. The DJ played the wrong song for the processional and wanted to argue with the bride and the wedding planning team just seconds before her entrance. Fortunately for this bride, her planner defended her fiercely and acted quickly when she realized the DJ was being stubborn. This was the kind of mistake that every guest notices and that could have been avoided if the “professional” had carefully read the planner’s briefing. Two days later, when I spoke to the bride, she told me that her day had been wonderful and that she would live it all over again! You would never have guessed that, just 48 hours earlier, she had been arguing with her DJ at the entrance to her ceremony. A friend of mine who got married in 2022 still remembers expecting to receive more than R$15,000 in wedding gifts, but she received “only” R$9,000. Or one of my brides from 2023, who is still upset to this day because her veil covered the tattoo on her back during the ceremony. Or another friend who walked down the aisle toward her groom faster than she had planned. All of these stories have the same factor in common: high expectations surrounding elements that cannot be controlled. You never know how much your guests are going to give you as a wedding gift. You never know what circumstances they may be facing. If you fell in love with a long veil, obviously it is going to cover your back during the short time you wear it, but it will also make you look spectacular. And if you walk toward your groom faster than expected, perhaps it’s simply because you wanted to reach him as quickly as possible — which I found incredibly romantic. In other words, what defines how perfect your day will be is you and your ability to let things flow. There are things you simply cannot control. You also need to understand that not every unexpected situation requires someone to be held responsible. Sometimes, it isn’t anyone’s fault. It’s simply the way the day unfolded. The fewer expectations you have, the more you allow yourself to be surprised, and the better you become at reframing unexpected moments, the more unforgettable your experience will be. Remember the true essence of the day: bringing together the people you love on the day you chose to begin your journey as a couple.

'SIGNATURE' COVER EDITION - GLOBAL ISSUE Photos: Otavio Henrique - @otaviiow Some stories can be told by the place where they began. Others, by the distance they managed to travel. Diego Hooks’ story may lie somewhere between the two. Over the years, Hooks has ceased to be merely a magazine and become a universe of projects, encounters, and new possibilities. But to look at this journey simply as an expansion would be to overlook what is most interesting about it: the ability of an idea to remain recognizable even after taking on so many forms. Perhaps that is precisely where this story takes on another dimension. Not in a timeline marked by achievements, but in the decision to keep creating. To look at what does not yet exist and see room to build. To carry an idea forward until it reaches the point where it no longer belongs only to the person who imagined it. Today, as Hooks enters a new chapter, the question is no longer simply what the magazine has become. It is what happens when a creation moves beyond its starting point and begins to exist in the lives of others. Some projects grow because they find a market. Others, because they respond to a need. And then there are those that continue to grow because they carry a vision capable of finding new paths without losing their essence. Hooks seems to belong to that last category. That is why talking about the future does not mean leaving the past behind. It means recognizing what has remained through every change: a very particular way of seeing, choosing, connecting people, and setting ideas in motion. It is at this point that the word Signature takes on another meaning. A signature is not merely the name that appears at the end of a creation. It lies in what remains recognizable, even when everything around it changes. In this issue, Diego Hooks speaks about origins, choices, transformation, and the future. About the dreams that found their way into the world, the people who became part of that journey, and the restlessness that continues to carry this story forward. Because some people want to be where things happen.Others prefer to create the place where they can happen. 1. Hooks was born from a very personal idea. When you look back at that beginning, what was the need that existed at the time? What did you want to create that you couldn’t find anywhere else? Hooks was born from a dream of mine: to become a communicator. I created a fashion blog when I was 15 years old. I had no followers or people supporting me at the time; it was completely anonymous. But inside my bedroom, I could sit down and write about fashion shows, international events, and launches from major brands. It was something of my own, almost like a game, as if I were playing at being a journalist. And that “game” gradually became a path toward my future, because it was a beacon that led me to where I am now. The magazine came when my ideas no longer fit within a blog, when I already had years of experience in the field and wanted to take it somewhere further. When I created the magazine, it was with the intention of reaching people in as many countries as possible. I remember our very first cover was with two twin sisters who were singers, the No Frills Twins. They’re from Australia, and I remember listening to them, so I thought, “I’m going to invite them to be the launch cover of the magazine.” And they accepted right away. So, from the very beginning, the connection was international. It was never a platform limited by distance. I think the short answer is that I truly wanted to leave where I was and take my dreams with me as far as they could go. 2. When did you realize that Hooks could be more than a magazine? Was there a particular project, decision, or opportunity that changed the way you saw it? In the beginning, we were deeply embraced by different communities. I remember that one of our first covers featured a drag queen from RuPaul’s Drag Race, from the Netherlands. Soon after, we featured a Trans Miss. So, I think we were propelled by people who also dreamed big, who dreamed of becoming more than what the world had offered them. As important people I genuinely admired began accepting invitations to be part of the magazine, I started to recognize Hooks’ global and social potential. But there were several moments throughout my journey with Hooks that made that flame burn even brighter. For example, when Ariana Grande commented on a production we created in New York featuring another drag queen from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Or when we began securing exclusive interviews with international artists, such as Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa, and so many others. 3. Anyone following Hooks can see that the past year has been one of intense development: new products were launched, Hooks gained greater visibility, and new areas began to take shape. What drove this movement? Was this expansion the result of a plan, or did it unfold naturally as opportunities emerged? A lot happened over the past year. We went through a restructuring of the team at the end of 2025, which was very important for the magazine’s growth, especially on the artistic side. Principles that are important to me were being distorted by people within the magazine. So, when those people left, everything went back to the origins of my dream. That is why 2026 has been such an important year for the magazine to dream bigger again, to grow, and also to develop new projects. 4. Today, there are very different projects carrying the Hooks signature. When you look at all of them, do you feel that you are building separate brands, or different parts of the same vision? Absolutely, they are all part of the same vision. Hooks is now an entertainment group. We have several products and brands within our portfolio, but they are all aligned with our ideas and principles. We have Sona Times of New York, a newspaper focused exclusively on more serious news. Its editorial proposition is different from that of Hooks, but it shares the same ethical and editorial principles. We also have Hooks Brides, an extension of Hooks, a magazine dedicated to the world of weddings and brides. Our new project, Hooks Academy, is an initiative we are developing in partnership with others that expands this universe into education and professional development. The idea is to bring professionals from the fashion, communications, journalism, entertainment, and other industries closer together through courses, workshops, lectures, and hands-on experiences. It has its own distinct proposition, but it also connects with everything we have built over the years within Hooks. We also have projects currently in development, such as Eurotrip Fashion, which involves international partners across Europe. Many other projects and brands work in partnership with Hooks, and for that, we can only be grateful to every professional who walks this journey with us. 5. The Signature Issue is about leaving a signature on what you build. When you imagine Hooks five or ten years from now, what is the mark you would like to leave on people and on the creative industry? You know, when I was still a teenager, my father once told me something that I carried with me throughout my life. He said I should dream about the best possible scenario I could imagine for the next ten years. And now, with your question, you’ve reminded me that when my father asked me what I imagined myself becoming in ten years, it certainly wasn’t even 50% of what Hooks has become today. So, I imagine the very best for Hooks over the next ten years. I imagine reaching places we haven’t reached yet and, perhaps, exploring Japan, China, and South Korea more deeply. We’ve already had several launches there, but I would like to have a team based in East Asia. 6. Throughout your journey, Hooks has always been a way of giving a voice to ideas, people, and creative movements. But there is also a voice that is uniquely your own. If you had the opportunity to be heard by the entire world for one moment, what message would you want to leave behind? “I don’t just want to be where things happen. I want to be part of what makes things happen.” Hooks is that living dream within me. It is an extension of a creation that made me the person I am. So, I don’t just want to watch the world happen from a distance. I want to be someone who moves things forward. Purchase your printed copy of this issue now by clicking below:

Photos Disclosure Press In today’s business landscape, success is no longer determined solely by the quality of a product or service. In an environment where competition is constantly increasing and attention is one of the most valuable currencies, the ability to build meaningful relationships has become a fundamental part of sustainable growth. Strategic connections can open doors that traditional business strategies cannot. They create opportunities for collaboration, strengthen professional positioning, expand visibility, and allow brands to reach people and markets that would otherwise remain inaccessible. But true networking is not simply about collecting contacts. It is about creating relationships based on trust, mutual value, and authenticity. For entrepreneur Elir Andrade, this distinction is essential. Throughout his career, he has experienced firsthand how the right connection, made at the right time and built on genuine interest, can become much more than a professional contact — it can evolve into a partnership, an opportunity, a new business, or even a long-term relationship capable of transforming an entire career. Interview | Elir Andrade: The Power of Connections, Reputation, and Strategic Growth In an increasingly competitive market, what is the secret to strategically connecting companies with major brands and generating real business opportunities? I believe the great secret lies in understanding that connecting companies goes far beyond simply introducing one brand to another. You need to understand both sides, know the timing, goals, and positioning of each company, and identify where there is a connection that truly makes sense. When people and brands come together with purpose and strategy, the opportunity becomes more than just a conversation — it begins to generate real value, reputation, and business. Do you believe networking is still one of the most important assets for business success? How can professionals build connections that truly deliver results? Absolutely. Networking remains one of the greatest assets for any professional or company. But I believe networking is not simply about knowing a lot of people; it is about building genuine relationships. There is no point in showing up only when you need something. It is essential to be present, exchange experiences, listen, contribute, and cultivate trust. More often than not, the best opportunities emerge from relationships built on respect, consistency, and authenticity. Many young people dream of becoming entrepreneurs and building successful careers. What advice would you give to those who are just starting out and want to stand out from an early stage? My main advice is: start. Many people wait for the perfect moment, believing they need to be completely prepared before taking the first step. The reality is that almost no one starts that way. Be responsible, constantly seek knowledge, and above all, remain curious. Observe the market, people, and opportunities. Don’t be afraid to start small. What matters is beginning the journey with a willingness to learn, evolve, and grow. Throughout your career, what have been the greatest challenges you have faced, and what lessons do you consider essential to your professional journey? One of the greatest challenges was understanding that growth also requires patience. Not everything happens when or how we want it to. I have faced insecurities, challenges, and moments when I had to make important decisions without having all the answers. These experiences taught me to value consistency, responsibility, and the ability to adapt. I also learned that no one builds a successful journey alone. The people who walk alongside us are part of that story. What role does public relations play in building the credibility and authority of a company or entrepreneur? Public relations plays a fundamental role because it transforms stories, positioning, and actions into strategic communication. It is not simply about getting a company featured in the media, but about understanding what needs to be communicated, to whom, and in the most effective way. Credibility is built over time through consistency and coherence. In this process, public relations helps strengthen a brand’s image and establish its authority in a responsible and authentic way. In your view, is there a difference between being famous and being a respected authority in the market? How can visibility be transformed into a solid reputation? There is a huge difference. Fame can come quickly and, in many cases, be temporary. Becoming a respected authority requires time, commitment, consistency, and results. Visibility attracts attention, but reputation is what builds trust and makes people recognize and value your work. For me, the path is to align words with actions. There is no point in talking about excellence without delivering it every day. Reputation is born precisely from this consistency. What are the most common mistakes you see companies and professionals making when trying to gain media exposure and strengthen their brands? One of the most common mistakes is wanting to appear simply for the sake of appearing. The media should not be treated merely as a showcase. You need to have a relevant story, clear positioning, and a well-defined strategy. Another frequent mistake is trying to copy the positioning of other people or companies. Every brand has a unique identity and needs to communicate what truly sets it apart. In addition, many organizations still underestimate the importance of building their image continuously, rather than investing in communication only during crises or specific moments. Looking ahead, what trends do you see shaping communication, brand positioning, and the development of influence in the business environment? I see a future increasingly driven by authenticity, relationships, and strategic positioning. People are becoming more aware and can identify when communication feels artificial. Technology and artificial intelligence will certainly transform the market, but I believe the human factor will remain essential. In the end, companies are made up of people and relationships. Brands that are able to communicate in a genuine, responsible, and strategic way will be much better positioned to build solid and lasting influence. Throughout this conversation, Elir Andrade highlights a fundamental principle of modern entrepreneurship: lasting success is built through meaningful relationships, strategic communication, and the consistent creation of value. In an increasingly dynamic business landscape, visibility alone is no longer enough. What truly sets professionals and brands apart is the ability to build credibility, remain authentic, and turn genuine connections into long-term opportunities. His perspective offers a compelling reminder that sustainable growth is not achieved overnight, but through trust, purpose, consistency, and the courage to build relationships that go far beyond business.

'BUSINESS' EDITION COVER - AUGUST 2026 ISSUE Photo: @demmacedo / Beauty: @dariobion / Video: @olivervideomaker_ / Styling: @eduardomurari @diegobbueno / Studio: @openstudio Before becoming the dermatologist we know today, there was a girl who had to earn every step of her journey through extensive study, hard work, and a discipline that was difficult to negotiate. The position she holds today did not come from a quick path. It was built gradually, through books, hospital shifts, exams, and a routine that, during her preparation for residency, included as many as ten hours of studying a day. Before choosing Dermatology, Flávia decided to pursue Internal Medicine at the Hospital das Clínicas of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine (FMUSP). The experience broadened the way she sees patients and continues to shape the physician she is today. The skin has never ceased to be her focus, but she came to see it as part of an entire organism rather than in isolation. Dr. Flávia Cury Rezende is a dermatologist who graduated from the ABC Medical School, with a residency in Internal Medicine at the Hospital das Clínicas of FMUSP. She is board-certified in Dermatology by the Brazilian Medical Association and the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, is a full member of the SBD, and has also contributed to the training of new professionals as a preceptor in Clinical Research in Cosmiatry and at the FMABC psoriasis and biologics outpatient clinic. Her credentials help tell the story of her career, but they do not fully explain who she is. There is an idea that repeatedly emerges when she talks about her profession and that, in a way, shapes the way she works: studying was never simply a requirement for advancing in Medicine. It has always been a way of showing respect for the person sitting on the other side of the consultation. “Studying is not just a detail. Studying is taking responsibility for others.” The sentence summarizes a conviction she has carried into her practice for more than a decade. For Flávia, knowledge is not merely a professional advantage. It is an obligation for anyone who has chosen to care for people. Perhaps that is why continuing education still occupies such an important place in her routine, even after completing medical school, residency, and establishing her career. This perspective also shapes the way she approaches aesthetic Dermatology. At a time when procedures have gained increasing visibility on social media and immediate results often receive more attention than proper diagnoses, Flávia prefers to begin with a different question: what truly makes sense for this particular patient? For her, caring for one’s appearance does not mean transforming someone into another person. It means understanding what bothers them, identifying what can be improved, and respecting the qualities that make each face unique. When properly approached, aesthetics does not erase identities. It follows the story of the person sitting in front of her. There is an important difference between performing a procedure and knowing when it should — or should not — be recommended. It is within that space that clinical judgment, experience, and the sense of responsibility she considers essential to the specialty come into play. Those who work closely with Flávia often describe a defining characteristic of her professional personality: perfectionism. She agrees, but with one caveat. In Medicine, striving for the best possible outcome can never mean crossing the boundaries of safety. For her, a successful result must exist within a balance of technique, knowledge, and prudence. Over the years, her career has gone through different phases. FC Dermatologia represents an important chapter in that journey and is part of the story that established her name within the specialty. Today, she is experiencing a new professional chapter, without giving up what she considers essential: continuing to study, refining her clinical eye, and welcoming every patient with the same level of care that guided her from the beginning of her career. When she looks back, the recognition she has achieved seems to be the consequence of a process much greater than titles or well-executed procedures. It comes from consistency — from years devoted to study, experience accumulated through clinical practice, and the daily decision to do better than she did the day before. Perhaps this is the best way to understand her story: not as the journey of a dermatologist who has reached a point of excellence, but as that of a physician who continues to regard learning as an inseparable part of her profession. It is this journey, what Medicine demands of those who choose to practice it, and the woman behind the dermatologist that Dr. Flávia Cury Rezende discusses in this interview. 1. Before becoming a dermatologist, there was a girl who had to earn every step of her journey through hard work. You studied for hours to get into residency and built your training step by step. What did that girl have that you made sure never to lose over the years? I think that girl had, above all, determination. Since medical school, I had dreamed of becoming a dermatologist, and I learned very early on that wanting it was not enough to make it happen. I had to work, study, and persevere. I even taught English to save money, and I spent years studying for many hours a day until I was able to get into residency. I completed two years of Internal Medicine before Dermatology and then another three years of residency, during which I also became pregnant. It was an extremely intense period, but it taught me a great deal. Today, looking back, I realize that the path we imagine for ourselves is not always the path life has in store for us. For me, having faith means trusting that life holds unexpected outcomes, but that we also have to do our part. Many times, God guides us along paths that are more beautiful and fulfilling than anything our minds could ever have imagined. 2. Your training began in Internal Medicine at the Hospital das Clínicas, before you went on to specialize in Dermatology. How did those years change the way you see a patient today? Internal Medicine gave me a medical foundation that I consider fundamental, but perhaps the greatest legacy of those two years is not exactly what I use theoretically in my day-to-day practice. It is the knowledge, the experiences, and everything I learned there.Those were two very intense years, spent at one of the largest hospitals in the country, where I interacted daily with patients, illnesses, and situations that demanded a great deal from me. I entered as a young woman, a very young physician, and I left as a woman and a doctor much better prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead.It was an experience that transformed me. And that confidence, that broader perspective on the patient, and that ability to see the individual beyond the complaint that brought them to me are things I still carry with me today. Without a doubt, it was one of the most important and beautiful experiences of my training. 3. You often say, “Studying is not just a detail. Studying is taking responsibility for others.” What does that statement mean to you in practice, especially when someone places their health, their appearance, and often an insecurity they cannot quite put into words in your hands? To me, knowledge is a form of care.When someone walks into my office, they are entrusting me with something very intimate. Sometimes it is an illness; sometimes it is hair loss, a scar, a change caused by aging, or simply something about their appearance that has started to bother them.That is why I do not believe in stopping your studies once residency is over. Quite the opposite. Residency was only the beginning.I study continuously, attend conferences, keep up with new technologies, read scientific papers, and try to understand what truly has evidence behind each new development. There is always something new emerging in Dermatology, and, to me, it is a physician’s responsibility to know how to distinguish what can genuinely benefit the patient from what is merely a trend.I try to bring together knowledge, experience, and common sense. Because I don’t want to simply deliver a beautiful result. I want to deliver a beautiful, natural, and safe result. 4. After more than ten years in the profession, you have probably learned that what a patient asks for is not always what they actually need. When a patient comes in wanting to change something about herself, what do you try to understand before deciding whether that change truly makes sense? First, I try to understand what is behind that desire for change.Sometimes, a patient comes in asking for a specific procedure, but as we talk, we realize that the actual concern is something else. It may be a feature she has always had, a change that has occurred over time, or even an insecurity that has become much greater than the feature itself really is.That is why I believe strongly in listening before making any recommendations.I also look at the person as a whole: her age, individual characteristics, skin quality, facial structure, proportions, lifestyle, and, above all, what can be done without erasing that person’s identity.I strongly believe in personalization. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Two people can come in with the same concern and need completely different strategies.There is also the importance of knowing when to say no. Not everything that can be done should be done. Many times, the best treatment is to explain that a particular intervention will not deliver the result that person imagines, or that, at that moment, they simply do not need it. 5. You are extremely demanding when it comes to results, but you also understand that, in Medicine, doing more does not always mean doing better. How do you recognize when a result has reached the right point? I don’t think there is a single answer to that. There is no rule that says, “This is the right point.” There are medical, ethical, and safety limits that must always be respected, but within those boundaries, what constitutes a good result also depends on each patient’s expectations and satisfaction.That is why, for me, the first step is to align expectations. I need to understand what that person expects, what truly bothers them, and what is actually possible to achieve. This alignment needs to happen from the very beginning because, sometimes, the patient already feels extremely satisfied with an improvement that, from my perspective, could still be enhanced. And that’s okay. The result needs to make sense for that person.The opposite can also happen. Sometimes I feel that we have reached a very good result, but the patient is more demanding and wants to improve it even further. There is nothing wrong with that either, as long as there is a technical possibility and we remain within safe limits.A scar is a good example. Often, there is no specific moment when we can say that it has reached the “right point” in an absolute sense. We can improve its texture, color, thickness, and skin quality. The limit will depend on how that person’s body responds and, above all, on how satisfied that person is.So, I would say that the right point is something we build together. It is where what is technically possible, what is safe, and what makes sense for the patient come together.I am very demanding when it comes to my results, but I have learned that Medicine is not about pursuing perfection. It is about delivering the best possible version of that result for that person, while respecting their individuality. 6. After everything you have studied, built, and experienced so far, what do you still feel you need to say? If you could leave a single message for more people to hear, what would it be? I would say that health is something we build. And caring for our appearance is also part of that care, but it cannot be separated from everything else.We can achieve beautiful aesthetic results today. We have technologies, medications, procedures, and treatments that have evolved enormously. But if a person does not take care of their health, stay active, exercise, eat properly, sleep well, and look at their body as a whole, the results we can achieve aesthetically will also have their limits.It was precisely my training in Internal Medicine, combined with Dermatology, that taught me to look at the individual this way. I cannot look only at the skin in front of me. There is an entire person behind it.And that is one of the things I love most about Dermatology. It is a specialty that cares for the skin, hair, and nails, but it also allows us to understand the patient in a much broader way. The skin is often the first place where we notice that something is not right, and a dermatologist needs to have medical knowledge to recognize that.That is why I strongly believe in the importance of seeking a physician who is trained in Dermatology. A dermatologist is not simply the professional who treats an aesthetic concern. A dermatologist is a physician who has studied to care for diseases and conditions of the skin, hair, and nails and who needs to understand the patient as a whole.In the end, every individual is unique, but also a whole. We cannot separate skin, body, health, habits, aging, and self-esteem as though they were independent things.Perhaps that is the message I would most like to leave: taking care of yourself does not mean trying to correct everything you see in the mirror. It means understanding that you are a whole, and that health, self-esteem, and well-being need to move forward together.

Ana Carolina and Inácio are dermatologists, business partners, and engaged. For those who think this combination requires a strict separation between their professional and personal lives, their answer is straightforward: there is no such division, and that’s perfectly fine. Photo Disclosure Press “We mix the two. We talk about our personal lives here, and we talk about our professional lives at home, because sometimes work is very intense and we have to manage it, taking up some of the free time we have because the demand at the clinic is very high,” Ana Carolina explains. “But we always make sure it doesn’t affect our relationship. When we feel that things are getting too stressful or too heavy, one of us gives the other a heads-up. And then, okay. Now let’s just live our personal lives and stop talking about work.” She laughs as she recalls how, on the eve of the interview, she had to put an end to the conversation: “I said, okay, it’s 8 p.m. Let’s stop talking about work now, okay?” From a clinical perspective, the two rarely disagree. “We ask each other for a lot of opinions. And usually, when one gives an opinion, the other agrees. We think very similarly when it comes to clinical, dermatological and aesthetic matters, decisions about patients, and even administrative decisions.” When disagreements do arise, their approach is simple: they respect each other’s decisions. “It’s very rare for us to disagree. And then what? We respect the other person’s decision.” According to them, what makes everything easier is that they share the same values. “We have very well-established values, and they really are the same. We think very similarly. That makes it easy to make decisions together.” This consistency extends to their team, which was built with people who share or understand those values. “They also know how to make decisions or solve problems based on our values.” Inácio adds a perspective that perfectly summarizes their dynamic: “When we have difficult days and need each other’s support, we have that person both at work and at home. The same thing happens at work when difficult situations arise. Complex situations. There’s nothing better than sharing that with your wife, your fiancée, because you completely trust her.” For them, being a couple and business partners is, above all, an advantage. “The success we’ve had as dermatologists so far is partly because of that, because we are a couple. Because we can work together. We can build together. We move at the same pace, in the same direction, with the same goal.” Beauty as a Sensitive Subject — Especially When It Comes to Weddings When the conversation turns to clinical practice, Ana Carolina is careful when explaining how she views beauty. Not as a rule, but as an individual perception that must be respected before any intervention. “The first thing is that I don’t treat beauty as a rule. Although there is a standard. We study these standards, which naturally create in the unconscious mind of the person looking at them a feeling that a face or body is beautiful. And we know what these standards are. There is the golden ratio, which has already been studied by many thinkers throughout history.” But knowing these standards does not mean applying them indiscriminately. “I don’t like imposing all these standards on patients. So, my goal is, first, to understand what bothers the person.” This distinction is central to the clinic’s approach. If something does not bother the patient, it does not need to be treated, regardless of what any aesthetic standard might say. “I actually praise it. Wow, your profile is beautiful. The structure of your face is beautiful. I emphasize these things so that the person can also recognize the beautiful features they already have.” When marriage enters the equation, sensitivity needs to be even greater. “The aesthetic pressure to look your best on your wedding day can be enormous. Sometimes people give opinions about things they shouldn’t even be commenting on.” Ana Carolina observes that many brides arrive carrying old insecurities they had been putting off, and the wedding acts as a trigger. “The wedding clock starts ticking, and they think: I need to do this now because I need to see myself afterward in the photographs. I have to look the way I want to look.” According to her, the most sensitive issue is not vanity itself, but when the pressure comes from outside. “I see it a lot from the groom toward the bride. And people pressure the groom to have procedures done when the groom doesn’t want to do anything.” At that point, her position is clear: “Groom, is this what you want? Is it your mother? Is it your mother-in-law? Then we’re not going to do anything. Let’s treat the acne because that’s a medical condition. He has to be happy with who he is, and the desire to change also has to come from him.” The Boom in Aesthetic Procedures — and What Raises Concern Brazil is currently one of the countries where the most aesthetic procedures are performed worldwide, and this rapid growth has consequences that Ana Carolina observes with concern in her practice. “We are experiencing an explosion of aesthetic procedures. It used to be the United States. It represented plastic surgery, but now Brazil...” As demand has increased, so has the number of professionals performing these procedures, both medical and non-medical practitioners, and with them, the number of complications. “The less knowledge there is, the greater the risk of complications. This is also well demonstrated scientifically. So, the greater the expertise and the higher the level of training, the lower the risk of complications.” She frequently sees patients who arrive with complications from procedures performed elsewhere. “I receive many patients who come from other professionals with complications that I first need to address, or sometimes I can’t help the patient as much because the complications are permanent and prevent other treatments. That worries me a little because sometimes we have our hands tied when it comes to helping someone who needs it.” There is also the problem of new products being launched faster than science can keep up. “I will only use something when there is truly a long-term safety study available. A product may produce a good response, but in the long term, it can cause delayed complications. Sometimes it may not even have approval from Anvisa.” The clinic’s position is firm: safety always comes before results. “Just because a product is showing good results, just because it is a recently launched product, doesn’t mean the procedure is safe.” To illustrate what can happen when this caution is ignored, Maria Constanza mentions a case that received significant attention in Argentina: a clinic frequented by famous artists that used a concrete-like substance for body procedures. “Extremely famous Argentine artists went to this clinic and went on television saying that they were counting the days of their lives because it is a product you cannot completely remove from your body. It kills. People completely lost sight of what really matters.” When a Doctor Needs to Say No There are situations in which the most ethical approach is to refuse a procedure, even if it would technically be possible to perform. Ana Carolina talks about this naturally, as someone who has experienced these situations many times. “The first principle is do no harm. That is a principle we have in medicine.” There is a condition known as body dysmorphic disorder, in which a patient perceives a defect that objectively does not exist. “In aesthetics, there are many patients who have this medical condition. And if you are ethical, if you are a doctor, it won’t be difficult, deep down, to say no, because you know that you are doing something good for the patient.” Conversation during the consultation is, for her, the most important tool. “Spending time talking is very important because, through that conversation, we can identify whether something is truly pathological, a medical condition, or whether it is behavioral.” In some cases, she shows patients through photographs and measurements that their facial proportions are balanced and that there is no need for intervention. “The patient says: wow, okay, I understand. And you know that someone who truly understands will pursue other treatments, or will simply continue health follow-up with me, and they stop talking about that issue.” There was one case in which it was necessary to involve the family. “It was necessary, in some way, to bring the family into the situation because the patient really needed psychological or psychiatric follow-up. It’s very easy to say yes, very easy. An aesthetic procedure can be extremely tempting for a ‘professional’ who wants to make money at any cost.” What Brides Need to Know Before Booking a Consultation For brides considering an aesthetic procedure for the first time because of their wedding, Ana Carolina’s advice begins before they even enter the office. “The bride needs to look at herself in the mirror, look at herself in photographs, and ask whether what she already has today, on her own, is good enough for her. She needs to understand what truly bothers her and what doesn’t. How does she see herself as a person? How does she see her own image? She should work on what bothers her and not other people, not thinking about how she will look at the wedding. Instead, think about herself as a person today: me, without being a bride. What do I feel? What don’t I like? What makes me a little insecure? What makes me insecure and not other people? I say this to all my patients.” The second step is to see a dermatologist well in advance. “Often, arriving at a dermatology consultation just two or three months before the wedding is too late to achieve the results the bride wants.” With enough time, it is possible to plan treatments that go far beyond injectables. “Sometimes it’s something as simple as hydrating the skin or improving a particular dark spot. That’s very straightforward. But there are other individual situations that require more time and are not necessarily injectable treatments.” Inácio adds his perspective as a man who has also begun to see the subject differently since becoming engaged: “As a man, I don’t care much about aesthetic procedures, but seeing photographs from that day is beautiful, and, of course, having a slightly more groomed face. A well-trimmed beard. It makes a difference when you look at those photographs.” Ana Carolina’s final message is about organization and self-awareness. “Being organized is very important. A wedding is an extremely special moment. It is an entire construction leading up to the wedding day. There is a choice of flowers, music, photographs, videos. Throughout that process, you are building this very special moment. And self-esteem and skin are also important aspects that we need time to prepare for.” Outside Pressure and the Right to Be Yourself One of the themes running throughout the conversation was the weight of outside opinions on a bride’s choices, whether aesthetic or otherwise. Maria Constanza, who conducted the interview and is herself a bride and a patient at the clinic, brought up the subject through a personal experience: “The other day, a bride — and I understand that it was meant with the best intentions — said to me: ‘Oh, Maria, you’re going to lighten your hair, right? You need to lighten it since you want to wear your hair down.’ I said: ‘No, I like my hair exactly the way it is.’” Ana Carolina recognizes the pattern. “We are constantly bombarded with the words ‘you have to, you need to, you should do, you should have.’ That can become a huge trigger for rushed decisions or decisions based on an insecurity that came from outside and was never necessarily yours.” Maria Constanza remembers a bride who wanted a half-up hairstyle but was being pressured by everyone around her to wear an updo. “This girl was extremely distressed, and she wasn’t someone who was very confident about expressing her own opinion. She was allowing herself to be influenced by outside suggestions. At one point, I had to hold her and say: ‘You are the one who is going to see yourself in the photographs. You hate yourself with your hair up — you told me that yourself. Why not wear the half-up style you really want?’” The bride ultimately got married with her hair half-up, but it was difficult for her to hear until the wedding day that she should have done something different. “Brides need to have a great deal of emotional resilience, not only to say no or express what they want, but to stand by those opinions.” Taking Care of Your Skin Beyond Aesthetics: What No One Tells You When the conversation turns to health rather than just beauty, Ana Carolina becomes even more direct. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world, and in Brazil, particularly in the southern region, rates are even higher. “The essential thing is sun protection. Skin cancer is directly associated with sun exposure. So sun protection means avoiding the strongest sun hours, using sunscreen every day when you are exposed to the sun, and wearing a hat. It is really important, and it works.” She also recommends an annual dermatology appointment for mole checks and attention to specific signs that may appear over time. “A mole that starts growing, changes over time, develops a wound, has multiple colors, or becomes darker and looks different from the others. It would be important to seek medical attention early.” She also warns about the increasingly common habit of following treatment advice from social media. “I see patients who spend months or years following a treatment their friend recommended or that they saw on TikTok. Then they say, ‘There’s nothing else I can do because I’ve already tried everything.’ When I look at that ‘everything,’ it was everything TikTok told them to do.” The message, ultimately, is simple: see a doctor before trying to solve the problem yourself. “Just because it’s a little rash, just because it’s a pimple, that doesn’t mean it’s unimportant or that it isn’t a health issue. So you have to seek help.” What Is Beauty, After All? To conclude, the most philosophical question of the interview: what is beauty for someone who dedicates her life to studying and practicing it? Ana Carolina answers without hesitation, but with the delicacy of someone who knows the answer is not simple. “Beauty is what makes you feel an emotion when you look at something. And what moves you, what visually brings you a positive emotion, that is beauty.” But she goes further: it is an individual emotion. “What brings a positive emotion to me, in my view, is different from what another person feels when looking at the same thing. There are standards of beauty, but real beauty is still about history. It depends on your experiences, it depends on the moment.” And that is precisely why the perception of beauty can be distorted by a difficult emotional period. “Emotions are heightened and intensified during engagement. They are constantly being influenced, and we have to try to work through those emotions so that you don’t develop a distorted perception of beauty, which can end up causing harm to yourself because of that perception.” The most extreme example is a patient experiencing depression who arrives at the office saying she looks horrible, when objectively she looks beautiful. “The emotion she feels when she looks at herself in the mirror is distorted because of her emotional state and that particular situation. So I can’t simply recommend a procedure for every complaint she brings to me, because otherwise I would be pushing her even further down that path and causing harm.” It was at this point that Maria Constanza ended the conversation with an observation that made everyone smile: Inácio had said that beauty is what evokes emotions and that, to him, Ana Carolina is always beautiful, even in the moments when she says she looks horrible. “How wonderful that he is the person you are going to marry. Isn’t that what we want for life? A partner who loves us at every moment.” Ana Carolina added, with a smile: “That we evoke emotions.” And the interviewer laughed: “That’s a line for your wedding vows, everyone. That’s a line for the vows.”

Dr. Arthur Rasqueri and Dr. Maísa Ribeiro are part of a generation of Brazilian professionals connected to the world’s leading international centers of healthcare innovation — and to Dubai, which is investing billions to become the world’s largest longevity hub. Photos Disclosure Press Medicine is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in decades. The traditional model, historically focused on diagnosing and treating established diseases, is beginning to make room for a broader approach: understanding the biological mechanisms associated with aging, functional decline, and tissue recovery in order to develop increasingly individualized interventions. This transformation has an address. Dubai is investing billions to become the world’s leading international hub for longevity — a state-backed goal with a defined timeline, dedicated funding, and its own regulatory framework. It was there that peptide-based therapeutics moved out of a regulatory gray area: the United Arab Emirates established regulations for the clinical use of peptides, with government backing, requiring product registration, documented medical indications, and traceability of origin, batch, and expiration date. While much of the world debates whether these molecules should be used, Dubai has defined how. It is within this landscape that two Brazilian professionals have been building careers of growing international prominence, working side by side across Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East. Dr. Arthur Rasqueri maintains his clinical practice in Brazil, where he is recognized as a leading specialist in body recomposition, longevity, health, and performance, working with artists and professionals subject to intense physical and public demands — patients for whom function, recovery, and capacity are not abstract concepts, but essential conditions of their work. At the same time, he is expanding his international presence, establishing connections with centers and professionals involved in the development of new strategies in performance, metabolism, longevity, and regenerative medicine. Dr. Maísa Ribeiro, a scientist and PhD in Regenerative Medicine, is based in Dubai, where she works at Novomed, one of the largest clinic networks in the United Arab Emirates, coordinating the longevity department and training physicians across the network. She conducts research with the Department of Precision Medicine at Gulf Medical University and is also a faculty member at the Geneva College of Longevity Science in Switzerland. The two also share an academic connection: Rasqueri participates as a guest physician in the Geneva College of Longevity Science’s postgraduate program in peptide therapeutics in Geneva — an environment dedicated to the teaching and discussion of longevity science and new approaches to healthcare. Science and Clinical Practice: The Partnership Driving the Future of Medicine For Arthur Rasqueri, the transformation underway is conceptual before it is technological. “Medicine is entering a phase in which it is no longer enough to ask what disease a patient has. We need to understand how they are aging, how their metabolism is functioning, what their capacity for recovery is, and which biological mechanisms can be modified. The major shift is personalization.” Answering these questions requires more than clinical experience. It requires engagement with the scientific literature, an understanding of biological mechanisms, and access to those producing scientific knowledge — and this is where the collaboration with Maísa Ribeiro has become a structural part of his practice. The complementarity between the two is at the core of their joint work. A researcher with a decade of laboratory experience investigating stem cells derived from adipose tissue and a physician with years of clinical practice in metabolism, body composition, and performance approach the same problem from different angles — and it is precisely there that medicine advances. “The partnership between science and clinical practice is what produces real progress. The laboratory alone generates knowledge that does not reach the patient. The clinic alone generates experience that is not tested. When the two interact, medicine moves faster and more safely.” For Maísa Ribeiro, the principle comes before any technology: science is the foundation of innovation and makes all the difference in this new era of modern medicine. Without evidence, what remains is simply the commercialization of novelty. Peptides: One of the Fields Generating the Most Interest Among the fields followed by both physicians is peptide therapeutics, an area that has gained enormous international visibility in recent years. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in various physiological processes. Some have been part of established medicine for decades, while others remain under scientific investigation or have different levels of regulatory approval depending on the country and indication. Current interest encompasses metabolism, body composition, recovery, cellular signaling, and processes associated with aging. For Rasqueri, the growing interest demands precisely more medical knowledge — not less. “There is a huge difference between innovation and experimentation. The faster a field grows, the greater the physician’s commitment must be to understanding mechanisms of action, scientific evidence, safety, pharmaceutical quality, and regulation.” This concern led him to closely follow, in Dubai, structures involved in the development and production of peptides, bringing clinical decision-making closer to an understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control, and traceability. Few physicians take this path; most prescribe without ever seeing where the product comes from. The regulatory framework in the UAE helps explain the interest. The Dubai Health Authority has issued specific regulations governing the management of peptide products in healthcare facilities, with government backing. Only products registered or licensed by the Emirates Drug Establishment may be prescribed and administered; peptides intended exclusively for research are prohibited for human use outside an approved clinical trial; purchasing from unlicensed suppliers is prohibited; and physicians are required to inform patients about the limits of the scientific evidence and the regulatory status of each product. For physicians, this means predictability. For patients, traceability — including batch, expiration date, origin, and documented indication. The Frontier of Cell-Based Therapies Another important pillar of this international movement is regenerative medicine based on cells and their derivatives — strategies designed to modulate tissue repair, inflammation, and regeneration processes. Depending on the technology and indication, the level of evidence can vary considerably. Cell therapies, cell-derived products, exosomes, and other intercellular signaling strategies occupy different positions on the scientific maturity spectrum. The more modern perspective is not to present these technologies as universal solutions, but to identify which have sufficient scientific support, which remain experimental, and which patients may benefit from them within appropriately selected protocols. It is precisely at this intersection between innovation and scientific rigor that Rasqueri and Ribeiro position their work. When Longevity Stops Meaning Simply Living Longer The contemporary discussion is becoming less focused on extending life expectancy and increasingly interested in healthspan — the period of life lived with preserved autonomy, physical capacity, cognition, and metabolic health. This profoundly changes the medical strategy. Genomics, body composition, cardiovascular health, metabolism, muscle strength, sleep, hormonal function, inflammatory markers, and functional capacity are increasingly being assessed in an integrated manner rather than as isolated compartments. In this context, Arthur Rasqueri’s experience in sports medicine, body composition, and performance connects directly with the science of longevity. Preserving muscle mass, for example, is no longer considered merely an aesthetic or athletic concern: muscle strength and function are playing an increasingly important role in discussions about healthy aging and maintaining functional independence throughout life. What he has observed for years in athletes and artists is, in essence, what the longevity literature now recommends for everyone. Dubai and the New Geography of Medicine For decades, the United States and several European countries concentrated much of the world’s medical innovation. That map, however, is changing. In June 2026, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, enacted the law establishing the Dubai Longevity Authority (DLA) — a government body created with an explicit objective: to position the emirate as the world’s leading hub for regulated longevity, wellness, and advanced medicine. The authority was placed under the leadership of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The authority is part of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the Dubai Social Agenda 33 — two state objectives with a 2033 horizon that involve billion-dollar investments and seek to place Dubai among the world’s top three cities for quality of life and healthy life expectancy. The DLA’s mandate covers the entire chain: research and development, clinical trials, manufacturing, delivery, and patient care. Regulatory speed is keeping pace with investment. On August 17, 2026, the Emirates Drug Establishment approved upadacitinib (RINVOQ) for the treatment of non-segmental vitiligo in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older, making the UAE the first country in the world to license a systemic oral treatment for this patient group. Months earlier, the same authority had registered the first oral GLP-1 agonist for chronic obesity available outside the United States. This combination of investment, regulation, and speed of adoption has created particularly fertile ground for regenerative medicine, cell therapies, personalized medicine, genomic assessment, individualized intravenous therapies, and longevity science. More than simply learning about new technologies, the goal of the two professionals is to understand how different tools can be integrated into medical practice rationally, individually, and according to clinical criteria. The Brazilian Patient and the Rise of International Medical Tourism Another phenomenon is developing in parallel: the growth of high-complexity medical tourism. Patients are no longer traveling solely to undergo surgery. A new profile is seeking international centers for advanced assessments, medical second opinions, longevity programs, diagnostic technologies, and specific treatments available within local regulations. Dubai occupies a strategic position in this market — its location between Europe and Asia, hospital infrastructure, air connectivity, and continued investment in medical technologies all contribute to its appeal. The bridge being built between Rasqueri’s practice in Brazil and Ribeiro’s work in the UAE has two stated priorities. The first is access: ensuring that patients can receive the latest technologies at specialized centers within the local regulatory framework. The second is the experience: a planned journey with medical continuity before, during, and after treatment — appropriate assessment before travel, a clear understanding of the indication for each procedure, and subsequent follow-up. This addresses the main problem with conventional medical tourism: fragmented care. A patient who travels alone returns alone, without someone to interpret what was done. A Bridge Between Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East Perhaps the most relevant aspect of their trajectories is precisely their ability to connect different ecosystems. Brazil has a recognized clinical medical system and highly qualified professionals. Europe maintains a strong academic and scientific tradition. Dubai, meanwhile, has become an environment characterized by speed, investment, and regulated adoption of new technologies. Moving between these environments makes it possible to observe different models and select what genuinely adds value to medical practice. For Maísa Ribeiro, living and working in the UAE means applying science directly to clinical practice — using technological advances and available therapeutic benefits to transform the lives of real patients through protocols, measurement, and follow-up. Arthur Rasqueri is following a similar path by expanding his work beyond his Brazilian practice and pursuing education, collaboration, and knowledge development across different countries. The goal is not simply to import treatments. It is to import knowledge, create scientific connections, and build bridges so that Brazilian physicians and patients can participate in an increasingly globalized medical landscape. Innovation Requires Responsibility The enthusiasm surrounding new technologies also brings a proportional responsibility. Regenerative medicine, cell therapies, exosomes, and various peptides range from established technologies to approaches that remain experimental. Therefore, any serious discussion about the future of medicine must acknowledge the current limits of scientific evidence. Rasqueri and Ribeiro believe that genuine innovation must go hand in hand with evidence, ethics, pharmaceutical quality, regulation, and medical supervision. The future will not be built simply by those who gain access to new technologies first, but by those who can distinguish what is merely new from what genuinely changes clinical outcomes. A Brazilian Generation Looking Toward the Next Era of Medicine The presence of Brazilians in international environments of research, education, and innovation demonstrates that the country can also actively participate in this transformation — not as a spectator, but as a producer of knowledge. Arthur Rasqueri and Maísa Ribeiro are part of this generation: trained in Brazil, with a vision of medicine that no longer recognizes geographic borders when it comes to knowledge. From Geneva to Dubai and from the Middle East to Brazil, their trajectories converge at the same point: understanding today the medicine that will become part of tomorrow’s clinical practice. And the principle that supports this approach is simple to state, yet demanding to fulfill. No technology should enter clinical practice before answering three questions: What is the mechanism? What is the evidence? And which patient stands to benefit?

COVER LONDON EDITION — AUGUST 2026 ISSUE PHOTOS: HOUSE MAZZUTTI London has become the setting for a new chapter in Ariana Mello’s life. An actress, model, and digital personality, she currently lives in the British capital at a time of transformation, learning, and the creation of new paths. Between her studies, improving her English, and preparing for opportunities in acting, Ariana is dedicating herself to an increasingly international career while remaining true to the essence that defines who she is. For her, living in London represents much more than a change of address. It is a fresh start, an opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and discover new possibilities. Life in a new culture requires independence, courage, and humility, especially when facing the challenges of building new connections, adapting to the language, and creating a life away from familiar surroundings. At the same time, this experience has provided something even deeper: self-discovery. Ariana says that living abroad has made her look inward and better understand what she truly wants. Today, she feels less need to explain her choices or seek approval for the life she has decided to build. This transformation has also changed her relationship with her image. After difficult experiences involving cosmetic procedures and pressure surrounding appearance, Ariana began to view beauty and self-esteem in a more conscious way. She remains passionate about fashion, beauty, and the visual world, but understands that taking care of her appearance should be a personal choice, rather than an attempt to meet other people’s expectations. For her, beauty is only one part of who we are. Appearance changes, trends come and go, but personality, values, experiences, and everything we build throughout life remain. This awareness also influences the way she approaches relationships. Ariana has become more selective about her personal life and deeply values reciprocity, quality, and respect. In London, this perception has become even stronger. Choosing the people, environments, and relationships that are part of her routine has become a way of protecting her energy and the life she is building. “Starting over, for me, doesn’t mean erasing who I was, but carrying the lessons with me and continuing to evolve without losing my essence.” It is precisely this idea that defines her current chapter. Ariana is not trying to leave previous versions of herself behind. She is taking her lessons into a new reality and allowing them to become part of the artist she wants to become. Acting now occupies a central place in her plans. She intends to continue studying, further developing her training, and pursuing opportunities in film and television, including international projects. More than simply being in front of the camera, Ariana wants to portray characters that challenge her and reveal different layers of her personality. “I want to play characters that challenge me and allow people to discover other sides of me beyond my image.” Fashion, naturally, remains part of her journey. After building such a close relationship with this world, she intends to continue working with projects and brands that resonate with her new chapter and with the values she wants to represent. But her plans go beyond her career. Ariana also wants to use her visibility to support causes that truly matter to her, particularly animal protection initiatives and humanitarian projects. The idea of building a purposeful career emerges as one of the defining characteristics of this new stage. There is also an intimate dream that remains among her greatest wishes: building her own family and experiencing motherhood. For Ariana, this is a life project she wants to fulfill at the right time, without rushing and without the need to follow external expectations. Today, her focus is on studying, working, growing, experiencing new things, and building her own story. Perhaps that is exactly why London makes so much sense for her at this moment. The city represents movement, discovery, and possibility. A place where past and future coexist every day, and where starting over can also be a way of finding yourself. On the cover of the LONDON edition of Hooks Magazine, Ariana Mello represents this spirit: a woman who is not simply changing her surroundings, but building a new version of herself. More independent. More self-aware. More selective. And, above all, ready to discover where her next chapter may take her. Exclusive interview with Ariana Mello: 1. Your journey began in Brazil, spanning fashion, beauty pageants, television, and editorial work. What did all these experiences teach you about yourself and about the woman you have become today? All of these experiences played a very important role in my development, both professionally and personally. Fashion, beauty pageants, television, and editorial work placed me in very different environments and taught me about discipline, responsibility, resilience, and, above all, self-awareness. Over time, I came to understand that we do not need to constantly live up to the expectations others create for us. Today, I know myself much better, I have a clearer understanding of what I want for my life, and also of what no longer makes sense to me. I am very grateful for everything I experienced in Brazil because each experience contributed to the woman I am today: more mature, determined, aware of my choices, and unafraid to start over whenever I feel the need to take a new path. 2. You currently live in London, studying, improving your English, and pursuing opportunities in acting. What motivated this international fresh start, and what are the biggest challenges of building a career in a new country? Living abroad has always been a big dream of mine. London represents much more than moving to another country; it represents a fresh start and the opportunity to completely step outside my comfort zone. I came primarily to study, improve my English, expand my training, and pursue new professional opportunities, especially in acting. I want to prepare myself more and more to work as an actress and be ready for opportunities in the international market as well. Building a life in another country requires a great deal of courage and humility. There is the language barrier, adapting to a new culture, being away from family, and the challenge of starting to build new connections and opportunities practically from scratch. At the same time, it has been an experience that has strengthened me enormously. I have discovered an even more independent version of myself, and I believe all of this will be reflected not only in my career but also in the artist and woman I am becoming. 3. You have experienced difficult situations involving cosmetic procedures and pressure surrounding appearance. How have these experiences transformed your relationship with beauty, self-esteem, and your own image? Working with image inevitably places us under a great deal of pressure regarding appearance. For a long time, I was also extremely demanding of myself, and at certain moments, I believe many women end up pursuing an idea of perfection that simply does not exist. Some experiences made me deeply reconsider my relationship with aesthetics. Today, I believe that any procedure should be a conscious decision, carried out responsibly and with qualified professionals, but above all, it should come from a personal desire and never from pressure to please other people or conform to a particular standard. I still enjoy fashion, beauty, and taking care of myself because that is also part of who I am. The difference is that today I understand that self-esteem goes far beyond appearance. Beauty changes, trends change, but our essence, personality, values, and everything we build throughout life are what truly remain. 4. Today you often speak about fresh starts, identity, and rebuilding yourself without losing your essence. Did you ever feel that you needed to distance yourself from other people’s expectations in order to discover who you truly are? Yes, absolutely. I think there comes a point in life when we begin to notice the difference between what we truly want and what, for a long time, we believed we should want in order to meet other people’s expectations. Today, I protect my personal life much more and have also become much more selective about the people I allow into my circle. Not everyone has access to my intimacy or my life. I have learned to value the quality of relationships, reciprocity, and the way people approach me. Especially while living abroad, I realized even more how important it is to choose my friendships, the environments I spend time in, and the people I keep close carefully. I do not see this as shutting myself off from the world, but as a way of protecting my energy, my peace, and the life I am building. Being in London has also made me look deeply inward. Today, I no longer feel the need to explain every choice I make or seek approval for the life I choose to live. Starting over, for me, does not mean erasing who I was, but carrying the lessons with me and continuing to evolve without losing my essence. 5. Looking at this new chapter in London, what dreams does Ariana Mello want to achieve over the next few years, both in acting and film and in fashion and social-impact projects? I have many dreams, and today they are much more connected to building a solid and purposeful career. In acting, I want to continue studying, preparing myself, and pursuing opportunities in film and television, including international projects. I want to play characters that challenge me and allow people to discover other sides of me beyond my image. Fashion continues to be a very important part of my story, and I want to continue working with projects and brands that resonate with me and with this new chapter I am experiencing. I also want to use my visibility more and more to support causes that truly matter to me, especially projects related to animal protection and humanitarian initiatives. And there is also a very personal dream, which is to build my own family and have children. It has always been something very important to me, and I consider motherhood one of the great dreams I still want to fulfill. At the same time, I believe that every stage of life has its own timing. Today, I am focused on studying, working, growing, experiencing new things, and building my own story. I want everything to happen naturally and at the right time. My greatest wish is to look back several years from now and realize that I built a career I am proud of, a purposeful life, and also a family surrounded by love and strong values. GET YOUR LONDON EDITION MAGAZINE - Global SHIPPING. LINK BELOW:

For Dr. Yara, talking about lipedema is, above all, talking about women who have spent years trying to understand their own bodies. Photo: @demmacedo / Beauty: @dariobion / Video: @olivervideomaker_ / Styling: @eduardomurari @diegobbueno / Studio: @openstudio Many were told that they needed to eat less, exercise more, and lose weight. And many of them were already doing all of that. Lipedema is a chronic condition that primarily affects women and often causes a disproportionate distribution of fat, especially in the legs. Pain, tenderness, a feeling of heaviness, and a tendency to bruise easily can also be part of the condition. Even so, for a long time, many women ended up attributing these characteristics simply to excess weight. It was from this reality that the doctor began to look at lipedema from a broader perspective. “Lipedema doesn’t begin and end in the legs,” she explains. For her, there is an inflammatory process, diseased tissue, as well as metabolism, circulation, and one pillar that cannot be overlooked: hormones. This way of looking at the condition also changes how treatment is approached. Lipedema is not simply a matter of weight loss. Nutrition and physical activity remain part of a healthy routine, but they do not, on their own, explain everything that happens to a patient with lipedema. This is precisely where many women spend years without finding answers. They try diets, increase their exercise, and strive to lose weight, but continue to live with symptoms and a body-fat distribution that does not correspond to the effort they are making. Without understanding the condition, it is easy to believe that the problem is simply a lack of discipline. For Dr. Yara, this interpretation needs to change. “I don’t treat just weight or fat. I look at inflammation, hormones, nutrition, muscle, the gut, sleep, circulation, and emotional health.” The list reveals an approach to treatment that does not focus on a single factor. Each of these elements can be part of that patient’s story, and understanding them helps create a more individualized approach to care. This is also why the doctor believes in a team-based approach. Lipedema may require different forms of care and follow-up over time, depending on each woman’s symptoms and needs. The goal is not to find a single answer, but to understand what that particular patient needs and which strategies may help her. Another point she considers essential is timing. The sooner the condition is understood and these pillars begin to be addressed, the greater the opportunity to manage its symptoms and progression. Proper diagnosis and follow-up can make a difference precisely because they allow women to understand what is happening to their bodies. Instead of spending years trying to address weight alone, they begin to look at their symptoms and their condition from a different perspective. But there is an even more personal reason behind the doctor’s decision to treat lipedema. It is not just about physical results, but about what happens to a woman throughout this process. “Because what moves me the most is not simply seeing a leg change. It is seeing that woman experience less pain, understand her body, and recognize herself in the mirror again.” Perhaps that is the most important part of her approach. The change is not only in what can be seen. It is also in the woman who comes to better understand her own body, stops blaming herself for something she could never explain, and finds a path to care that is better suited to her reality. This is the perspective behind Dr. Yara’s approach: treating lipedema not simply as a matter of weight or appearance, but as a condition that needs to be understood in all its complexity and addressed through different pillars of care.Because before any treatment, there is a woman trying to understand her own body. And, above all, looking at the woman before looking at the leg.

Influencer Moisés Lopes discusses the evolution of menswear, the growing popularity of bags among men, and the importance of building a style rooted in identity and authenticity Photo Ravaneli Souza For a long time, menswear was surrounded by rules about what a man could or could not wear. Colors, silhouettes, and accessories were often associated with rigid ideas of masculinity. In recent years, however, this landscape has been changing. Fashion has increasingly become connected to individual expression, making room for men who want to experiment with different styles without necessarily adhering to traditional codes. For influencer Moisés Lopes, one of the main transformations behind this movement is precisely the freedom of expression. “Today, men understand much more that fashion goes beyond clothing: it is a way of showing personality, identity, and lifestyle,” he says. According to him, this change is also connected to increased representation. “As a Black and gay man, I see this change as something very positive because representation has created space for different ways of being and expressing oneself.” In Moisés’s view, the result is a more diverse, authentic menswear culture that is connected to individuality. Bags Are No Longer Taboo One of the symbols of this transformation is the bag. An accessory that was once associated almost exclusively with women’s fashion has gained space in men’s looks and is now also regarded as a style element. Moisés believes the resistance is fading. “I’m loving seeing men wearing bags without the burden of thinking that it’s ‘something for women,’” he says. For him, the accessory has gone beyond its practical function and has become part of the construction of one’s visual identity. Even so, the influencer points out that the process is not yet complete. “We still have a long way to go before this is truly seen as something ordinary, without judgment or prejudice.” According to him, change depends on understanding that fashion should be a space of freedom, where each person can choose how they want to present themselves. The growing presence of bags in environments traditionally associated with more rigid forms of masculinity also highlights this transformation. Moisés cites soccer players as an example: “It is a world historically marked by a very rigid culture of masculinity,” yet today it also features men naturally wearing bags and other fashion accessories while traveling, at training camps, and during competitions. Trends Are Not Rules With trends moving at such a fast pace on social media, another challenge is finding the balance between keeping up with what is popular and maintaining your own identity. For Moisés, the answer lies in understanding trends as inspiration rather than an obligation. “Not everything that is trending will suit your personality, and that’s okay,” he says. In his view, true personal style emerges when clothing manages to communicate something about the person wearing it. His advice for anyone who wants to improve the way they dress is simple: experiment. But without turning trends into rules. “The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel good and confident. When there is authenticity, it naturally shows, and no trend is stronger than that.” The New Codes of Masculinity The transformation of menswear also reflects a broader change in the way masculinity itself is perceived. For Moisés, traditional codes were shaped over decades by a culture that determined which clothes, colors, and accessories were considered acceptable for men. “This caused many men to stop wearing certain clothes, colors, or accessories because they were afraid of being judged,” he explains. Today, he sees a generation that is more open to experimentation and less concerned with using clothing as a way of proving masculinity. “They understand fashion as a form of expression rather than a way to prove masculinity.” Despite the progress, Moisés emphasizes that prejudice still exists, especially when a man moves away from traditional standards. For him, the next step is to expand this freedom until choosing an outfit is no longer accompanied by concern about other people’s opinions. “Fashion should be about identity, not about limiting who you are.” Dressing for Yourself, Not for Others In the influencer’s view, one of the biggest mistakes men make when it comes to style is trying to please others. Fear of judgment can prevent men from experimenting with pieces that might better represent their personalities. It is in this context that Moisés once again advocates for bags as an accessory worth trying. More than a trend, they represent, for him, a shift in the very codes of menswear. This evolution can even be seen in environments that have historically reinforced more rigid standards of masculinity. The presence of bags and accessories in the looks of soccer players, for example, shows that these barriers are also gradually being challenged. For Moisés, the future of menswear lies precisely in this process of deconstruction: fewer rules, less fear of judgment, and more room for each man to choose how he wants to present himself. After all, if clothing is an extension of personality, perhaps the biggest trend in menswear is precisely no longer needing to fit into a single definition of what it means to be a man.

A Journey That Started from Scratch Photos Disclosure Press Few professionals enter the wedding industry through a linear path, and Cris, partner at Finally Married, was no exception. After leaving her former job in 2013, she found herself at home, restless and searching for a sense of purpose. “I’ve always been a restless soul. I started getting frustrated with staying at home,” she recalls. That was when she decided to start a business alongside her retired mother. After a visit to Sebrae and an idea that required little investment, a flower shop was born. But the universe had other plans. At the same time, Cris had taken a professional makeup artist course and quickly discovered that makeup was not for her. “I still don’t even know how to do my own makeup,” she admits, laughing. It was inside the flower shop, however, that everything changed: a client asked for help with the flowers for her wedding. Cris took on the challenge, partnered with a well-known decorator, delivered the project, and the bride loved it. The following week, a wedding photographer knocked on her door with a simple proposal: put together a complete wedding planning and décor package. The fee was R$590. At the time, it seemed like a lot of money. “I started learning a little about it, and I really grew to love it. Then I took courses, specialized in event production, and started working in the field.” Five years later, Cris was already earning more than her husband, Dilson, through her company. The solution was a natural one: she invited him to join her. The timing could not have been more chaotic: their partnership began just one month into lockdown, at the height of the pandemic. “God always found a way. The universe, I don’t know, everyone calls it whatever they want. But it always worked out.” During the pandemic, the two reinvented themselves. The truck they used to transport décor became a delivery and freight vehicle. Meanwhile, Cris spoke with brides, understood their concerns, and found ways to keep moving forward. Enfim Casados not only survived, but grew. So, What Exactly Is a Wedding Planner? For someone who has just gotten engaged and has never heard of the world of wedding planning, Cris’s explanation is straightforward: “We are a team of wedding planners, which is different from traditional wedding consulting. Our approach is to offer a more strategic and personalized perspective. The wedding has to make sense for the couple and fit within their budget. It has to make them happy aesthetically, in the moments they experience, and through the food. We need to understand their priorities and create the wedding based on those priorities.” Traditional wedding planning, she explains, follows a standard that works for many people, but not for everyone. At Enfim Casados, each couple has a different timeline, a different budget, and a visual project developed by Dilson, giving them maximum visibility before the big day. “The icing on the cake is the wedding project. It gives the bride as much visibility as possible so she can say: this is exactly what I imagined, I feel confident, I can go get ready in peace and enjoy my day.” In addition, the company takes on only one wedding per date, with no second team. The person who accompanies the bride throughout the planning months is the same person who will be by her side during the getting-ready process and at the reception. “The idea is that you’ve walked alongside one person throughout that journey. That person is there with you, giving you confidence, being with you while you get ready, and being with you at your wedding. Walking together means creating that wedding together, step by step, with no limit on meetings and no limit on venue visits.” How to Choose the Right Wedding Planner When it comes to finding the right wedding planner, Cris believes the first mistake a bride can make is limiting her decision to price. “The cost of her wedding is very important. We do consider the price, of course, but together with the couples, we also evaluate the value that service brings to their wedding.” Over the years, a certain profile has naturally emerged among the company’s clients. “I notice that they ask for my opinion a lot about the dress, about the favors. They argue with their maid of honor, and I get mad along with them. They try to convince the groom to book a band, and I’m right there with them.” According to her, what these brides have in common is the desire to experience the process with peace of mind, without being put on a production line and treated as just another client among many. “The bride who fits our profile is organized, wants to control her budget, but also wants someone who respects what she dreams of.” Vendor Curation: Science and Sensibility One of the pillars of Enfim Casados is its careful curation of vendors. Recommendations are based on a proven track record: delivering results that made the bride happy, the ability to follow a brief, and a willingness to work as a team on the day of the event. “If there’s a problem with another vendor on the day, it’s our problem too. We really value teamwork. So that’s the kind of vendor who becomes a recommendation from us.” When a vendor disappoints, they are no longer recommended, and in extreme cases, if the couple still chooses to hire them, they are required to sign a commitment agreement. Cris shares a striking example: a decorator who sold brides a specific lighting setup but hired a cheaper alternative to increase her profit margin. On the day of the event, the installation arrived incorrectly. “She knew it was wrong, but she thought: it will be cheaper, and the bride will go ahead with it.” There are also cases of vendors who started out well but gradually became less attentive over time. “The person reached the point of not even knowing the wedding date during the week of the wedding. She thought it was on Friday.” From that point on, Enfim Casados only honored the contracts already signed with that company and stopped recommending them. The Most Surreal Unexpected Situation and How It Was Resolved Every wedding professional has that one story. Cris’s involves devotion, a race against time, and a great deal of creativity. The bride was extremely devoted to Our Lady of Grace. The wedding favors were handmade rosaries created by the groom’s grandfather. The reference image for the saint was one meter tall. During the week of the event, Cris confirmed with the decorator: was everything okay with the statue? The answer was yes. On the day of the setup, a 25-centimeter statue arrived, placed on top of another 25-centimeter pedestal. “It looked like a Greek column with a tourist standing on top taking a picture. It looked terrible.” Cris thought about what to do for exactly five minutes. Then she acted. She asked the decorator for a refund so she could buy a new statue, but the decorator refused to help. She began calling vendors in search of a statue of the appropriate size. She found one in a neighborhood far from the ceremony venue, while the wedding was taking place on the other side of the city. She called the groom, who authorized the purchase and provided his driver. Dilson rushed through the back of the venue and replaced the statue before the bride entered. When she walked through the doors of the venue, her eyes lit up. “My God, how beautiful!” the bride said. She only discovered what had happened during the reception, when she found the original statue hidden in a corner of the support room. The groom eventually told her everything. And the story has an even more beautiful ending: the saint purchased in that last-minute rush was later used again at a friend of the bride’s wedding and affectionately became known as the “wedding saint.” The decorator, meanwhile, never returned the money or offered any explanation. A Split-Second Decision That Changed Everything At an outdoor wedding, the ceremony was about to begin. It was drizzling. The musicians who had been hired refused to play, claiming that the humidity could damage their instruments, even though a large umbrella was available to protect them. The processional was ready. The bride had dreamed of Plan A. And Cris made a decision: “You can leave.” She turned to the DJ who was present, who had the complete playlist, and confirmed that he could take over. The musician left, unhappy with the decision. But just as the violin bow began to move, she changed her mind and the rain stopped. The ceremony took place under an open sky, and the bride walked down the aisle to live music. “I knew that if she left, the bride could hold me responsible. It was a very serious decision,” Cris admits. It was this same wedding that went viral on social media, with the emotional moment when the groom’s grandparents walked into the ceremony together. The Wedding No One Forgets Among so many stories, there is one that remains etched in the memory of the entire team: the wedding of Gabi (a fictional name). A bride during the pandemic, Gabi was diagnosed with an extremely aggressive form of cancer in her spine before the restrictions even began. The disease spread to her lungs and later to her brain. With the wedding already scheduled, she would also have to undergo brain surgery. When Cris learned about the situation, she took an action that says a great deal about who she is. She contacted all the vendors, explained what was happening, and told them that, as far as she was concerned, the wedding had already been paid for. “She didn’t need to pay anything else. We wanted her to use that money for her surgery.” Vendor after vendor was contacted. Many donated their services, offered discounts, or contributed whatever they could. A basket was put together with a note that read: “Use this money for your treatment.” Gabi was able to have the surgery. On her wedding day, she was radiant, with her short hair beginning to grow back and her eyes shining. She danced on the dance floor, had fun, and was deeply loved. Every vendor cried during the ceremony. “If you looked around, you couldn’t see a single person who wasn’t crying.” Gabi returned from her honeymoon, underwent her tests and, unfortunately, never left the hospital again. She passed away eight months after her wedding, at the age of 29. “I think it was the most emotional wedding I have ever witnessed. I had to stop and refocus so I could pay attention to the work again because it was so emotional.” Destination Weddings: Challenge and Reward Finally Married also works on international weddings, and the challenges are proportional to the scale of the project. There are cultural barriers, language issues, and the absence of WhatsApp as a quick communication tool. Timelines are prepared in three languages: Portuguese, English, and Italian. The team arrives one day early and goes over the entire plan again with the catering team and the venue. “There’s the cultural aspect. There’s the language issue, and when we’re talking about something outside the country, especially in Italy, no one is speaking their native language. So there’s a possibility that we’re not being understood. We say it once, twice, three times.” But the reward is proportional to the effort. “When you’re traveling abroad and hear someone speaking Portuguese, you immediately want to talk to them. Imagine someone organizing a wedding, understanding what you like and what you want, in another country.” There are also details that brides who choose venues based on their daytime beauty may overlook, such as nighttime lighting, which is frequently forgotten. “We send each other stories of venues from other weddings abroad and say: they didn’t think about the nighttime lighting again.” These details can only be properly handled through the extensive experience Enfim Casados has accumulated. Where Should Someone Who Has Just Gotten Engaged Begin? Finally Married’ answer is straightforward: start with the wedding planner. “Because without hiring one, the bride may book a venue thinking it’s the place of her dreams, only to discover that the band can’t play there, that the catering doesn’t serve what she wants, that she needs a generator, a tent, additional staff.” The wedding planner, Cris explains, is the person who will conduct a real financial analysis, understand what fits within the budget and what goes beyond it. They are the person who helps make decisions based on numbers, not just emotion. “Sometimes, a perfect place isn’t perfect for you or for your budget. Sometimes, a beautiful photographer isn’t right for you if their style isn’t what you’re looking for. And couples don’t have this perspective, and that’s okay. They don’t need to have it when they have good planning support alongside them.” When it comes to unexpected issues during the final month before the wedding, Cris is reassuring. “A month before, even during the week of the wedding, is better than on the day itself. If we’re seeing something now, it’s because we’re reviewing everything for the third or fourth time, making sure no loose ends have been left behind so that the day can be perfect.” And she concludes with a phrase that summarizes the company’s philosophy: “Every well-executed wedding is a well-planned wedding.” The Most Special Moment of All When asked about the most special moment of a wedding, the answer is unanimous: the bride’s entrance. “It’s the moment when we’re the most tense and the most focused on everything that’s happening, because we need to make it happen,” Dilson explains. While he stays with the groom at the front, watching his reaction and waiting for the moment to tell him to turn around, Cris remains with the bride backstage. “Some brides have trembling bouquets, and I just look at them and tell them they look beautiful, that everything is going to be okay. Sometimes, we adjust the father’s tie. Some people are more introverted, some cry, some thank me at the door,” Cris describes. “I feel a little like a bride myself when I put myself in her place at that moment. There is a connection when the bride looks at the face of the person she hired two years ago and sees that person standing there beside her. That feeling of security.” When the ceremony ends, there is a collective sense of relief. “Everyone takes that deep breath. Now everything feels lighter.” What Remains After the Party Ends Throughout all these years, between unexpected situations resolved behind the scenes, vendors who disappointed and others who exceeded every expectation, weddings that moved the entire team and stories that stayed with them forever, Cris and Dilson came to a simple yet profound conclusion. A wedding lasts one day. The planning takes months. The memory lasts a lifetime. And the person who walks alongside a couple through this process is not merely a service provider. It is someone who will know before the family does when the bride has argued with her maid of honor, when the groom is unsure about the band, when the budget has become tight and they need to choose what truly matters. “We enter people’s lives in a very particular way,” Cris says. “It’s a relationship of trust that goes far beyond the contract.” That is why, when it comes to choosing a wedding planner, she believes the decision needs to go beyond beautiful photos on Instagram or the most affordable price. “You’re going to spend months alongside this person. They will know about your insecurities, your fears, your arguments. They will be with you during the most vulnerable and most beautiful moment of your life at the same time, which is walking down the aisle.” The question Cris suggests every bride ask herself is not about a portfolio or a price list. It is simpler than that: Do I trust this person? Do I feel safe with them? “Because on the day, when something unexpected happens — and it always does — you need to look to your side and know that this person will take care of it. Without having to tell you what went wrong.” Dilson adds, with the same serenity of someone who has experienced many days like these: “We don’t sell a service. We deliver a day. And that day never comes back.” It is this awareness that leads Finally Married to continue refusing double bookings, building long-term relationships with their couples, and treating every wedding as if it were the only one, because for the people living that moment, that is exactly what it is. And it is for all these reasons, and because of everything they are and believe in, that this wonderful family was the best choice I could have made for my wedding, which I will share more about later. Thank you so much, Cris and Dilson, for opening your hearts and sharing your stories to educate all the anxious brides who have not yet begun planning their weddings. I am certain that you have made a great difference in their lives as well.

Gênesis, Zayah, and Zakhar return to the catalog in a special one-year anniversary edition of the brand, featuring a new visual identity and the same formulas that won over thousands of customers Photos Marllon Oliveira One year after entering the fragrance market, entrepreneur and influencer Camila Dias celebrates Benuá’s first anniversary with a meaningful relaunch. The fragrances Gênesis, Zayah, and Zakhar, which marked the beginning of the brand’s story, return to the catalog with a new visual identity while maintaining exactly the original formulas that won over thousands of consumers. “They say that a scent has the power to transport us back in time. Perhaps that is why, for months, I received messages from people asking when Gênesis, Zayah, and Zakhar would return. It wasn’t just about perfume. It was about reliving memories,” says Camila Dias. Launched on August 8, 2025, Gênesis was the first fragrance developed by Camila and marked the beginning of a project that quickly gained recognition among fragrance enthusiasts. Throughout that first year, the company expanded its portfolio, strengthened its presence in the market, and underwent an important repositioning process, adopting the name Benuá and a new visual identity. Now that this transition is complete, the brand’s first three fragrances return to the shelves in redesigned packaging, but with the same scent that allowed so many people to create memories through them. “Ever since the fragrances were taken off the market, I have received messages almost every day asking when they would return. It is incredibly moving to realize that people don’t just miss the fragrance, but the memories it represents. Perfume has this power to preserve moments. Bringing Gênesis, Zayah, and Zakhar back is a way of celebrating everything we have built so far without giving up our essence,” says Camila Dias. The relaunch comes at a time when brands founded by content creators are seeking to establish their own identities, strengthening their presence far beyond social media. In Benuá’s case, this movement reinforces a positioning that brings together perfumery, emotional memories, and sensory experiences. For Camila, revisiting the brand’s first creations also means reflecting on her own journey. “When I look at these fragrances, I remember everything I experienced over the past year. There were many challenges, lessons, and achievements. Benuá has changed on the outside and matured as a brand, but its essence remains exactly the same. And I think that is what people feel when they experience our fragrances.” More than celebrating one year of history, the return of the original collection symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter for Benuá: a brand that continues to evolve without losing the emotional connection built since its very first launch.