How and Why PayPal made my Life Easy? How to receive payments easily while freelancing?
Hi guys,
I have been blogging since 8 years now and have my own domain since 6.5-7 years. I shifted to my own server/hosting since more than 3 years now. All payments related to my blog domain/hosting, etc. have been made through PayPal.
As a freelancer it has become difficult to receive payments and have a trust worthy mode of receiving payments. Many people are now looking at freelancing as a career and many of them seem to be new to taking it up as a career with less than 5 years in experience. A recent study show that 4 in 5 free lancers get international work from US, UK and Australia. It is essential to have a trusted and fast mode of receiving payments especially for work that has been done internationally.
I have been using PayPal since 2011 and I prefer to receive all my international payments through PayPal. If you are a freelancer, you have obviously heard about PayPal and might be using it too. It’s so easy to raise invoices and request payment for your services, on PayPal.
I have my own PayPal.Me link which I share with my clients to get paid. I simply send my PayPal.Me link with the requested amount to get paid. With PayPal making its foray into India, I can now receive payments from both Indian and International customers.
As a freelancer, I can now receive payments in Rupees and 26 other currencies across the globe. With PayPal Seller Protection Policy, I also feel a lot more secure about doing business with clients who I’ve not met directly since I can trust PayPal to cover me from online frauds and chargebacks.
One of the things that I really like about PayPal is that I can use it to not only receive payments but also shop across the globe securely. Whether its booking a ticket at BookMyShow for a movie or buying apparels from a relatively unknown international site, I know that with PayPal, my transactions are secure.
I can’t imagine using any other payment method for my international purchases, and I shop internationally a lot!
Irregular payments and lack of payment/frauds are the no. 1 issue freelancers like me face. A platform like PayPal makes sure you get your payments. It’s quick and easy, secure and reliable.
The best thing is it’s quick and easy to set up your PayPal account and link your card/bank to it. PayPal makes it easy for your client to pay you, even if they’ve never met you. I definitely recommend PayPal to everyone whether it’s for buying something or getting paid for your services, I have already helped a few set up their account 😀 So, PayPal has definitely helped me a lot as a freelancer.
If you’re a freelancer, try PayPal and get going. Your clients internationally trust PayPal. So should you. To sign up for a freelancer account, click here
Thankfully, the size zero fad is over. We Indians love our ladies with curves. Whatever be your body type – skinny, voluptuous, plus size, athletic or anything and everything else, women have curves, period (let’s not body shame please) and admire the ones who flaunt them tastefully, proudly and uninhibitedly! Ladies, you all have us slobbering. Fitness goals re-chalked and how!
1. Vidya Balan – Unarguably, the lady who had been hounded by the fashion fraternity, media and so-called fans for not fitting into the archetypal Euroepan-model like frame, the way Vidya chose to turn the cards in her favour with ‘The Dirty Picture’ (wherein she owned, flaunted and celebrated her natural curves) had everyone sighing over this South siren. Vidya Balan today is the first actress whose name explodes in one’s mind the minute “curvaceous” is mentioned.
2. Parineeti Chopra – Hounded in the name of being advised for long by every Tom, Dick and Harry for not being “in shape”, Parineeti transformed herself by 180 degrees by opting for a stringent fitness regimen that has enhanced her curves all the more. The baby fat that she had has now made way to toned and taut muscles. And that’s how you shush naysayers.
3. Huma Qureshi – Unapologetic about her naturally voluptuous curves, Huma Qureshi clearly owes no one perfection and is comfortable in flaunting her natural self like no other as evidenced by one of her iconic magazine cover shoots that stands nothing short of epoch- making. A powerhouse performer, she is the textbook definition of voluptuous.
4. Ileana D’Cruz – An angelic semblance and a waistline to kill for, South siren Ileana D’Cruz blends naivety with a dash of notoriety and mischief. No wonder Indian apparel highlights a woman’s curves tastefully and Ileana is no exception to that.
5. Jacqueline Fernandez – She oozes cheerfulness, boisterousness and joy, period. Sri Lankan beauty queen Jacqueline Fernandez has curves to die for. An athletic body frame with curves thrown in at the right places, who says that woman of only a particular body type qualify as curvaceous women? Jacqueline is here to refute you all point blank.
6. Sunny Leone – Unbridled and uninhibited sex appeal with a devil-may- care attitude wrapping it, Sunny Leone aka Karenjit Kaur Vohra has a body that’d leaving many drooling uncontrollably. The way she has shushed all her critics for belittling her previous career by never playing the victim card along with her noticeable and drool-inducing curves certainly raises her desirability quotient by leaps and bounds.
7. Bipasha Basu – Another fitness freak’s on our list and for very valid reason. Bong beauty Bipasha Basu has the quintessential gym-girl look with all her curves adorning her chiselled physique even more. Better hit the gym soon for that body is a work of dedication.
8. Chitrangada Singh – Bearing a strong resemblance to the dynamic performer late Smita Patil, Chitrangada Singh is your classic Indian beauty – big doe-shaped eyes, a warm sun-kissed skin tone that she (thankfully) hasn’t lightened and curves thrown in at the right places. Sultry, sensuous and enchanting, no wonder she leaves mouths agape. Oh by the way, she’s a mommy. Hit the gym, if you didn’t get that!
9. Zareen Khan- She started with Veer Zaara and has lost a lot of weight post that. For her debut Veer Zaara, she lost 30 kg from her original 90kg. She lifts weights and is currently the fittest curviest actress in Bollywood.
10. Bhumi Pednekar- The latest entrant to join the club, she was overweight and had lost all of her weight gradually and then she was offered her debut movie Dum Laga Ke Haisha for which she put on weight. Again her journey of losing the additional weight began, she is quite fit now. But is not stick thin, she resembles an ideal, healthy body.
Editor’s Note: That’s a great list Nidhal, I would add Kareena Kapoor to the list too!
Top 10 Locations for the Perfect Destination Wedding in India
By Sanchita
Wedding is a ‘once in a lifetime’ kind of affair and every one desires to have this day perfectly of what they have pictured so far. Indian weddings are mostly known to be larger than life with all the pomp and show and what makes it even more splendid and magnificent is the perfect destination. India is a country of races and communities and every corner of the nation offers excellent wedding destinations with choices variegating from the wedding beside the pristine white beaches, magnificent forts or the serenity of mountains and rivers.
Every destination is breathtaking and thus the destination of your choice which will make the wedding a cherished event forever etched in your memory. So, to narrow down your lists, here’s the compilation of the list of ten wonderful sites for a Destination Wedding in India.
1. Goa
This is India’s one of the trendiest and splendid location for a destination wedding. If you want the exotic feel of the grand affair with the beauty of pristine beaches, palm trees, mouth-watering sea food, wine, music with serenity and calmness all around, Goa should on top of the list. The dream fairy tale wedding you have been planning with the magnificently decorated beach is surely one of the best things in the world. You can also have the quiet ceremonial rituals of the old churches with ethnic beauty.
It is surely breathtaking to tie the knot against the backdrop of beaches that are flanked by the gleaming blue water. For location if you want a luxurious place, you can go for Park Hyatt Goa, Taj, Leela, and Radisson Resorts or choose the peacefulness and gentle waves of Arabian Sea. The best time for the wedding in Goa is between October to January. With the pleasant cool climate.
Do you remember Kalki Kochelin’s Wedding from the movie Ye Jawani Hai Deewani? Udaipur is one of the finest destinations for Indian wedding. It is known as the “the “Venice of the East” due to its rich heritage, culture and architectural splendour. It is surrounded by lakes on all sides and this romantic destination is perfect for tying the knot. The royal palaces, castles, splendid lakes and sheer beauty of the place will give you the extraordinary fairy-tale wedding one can hope for. The popular venues in Udaipur for weddings are Jag Mandir Palace or the Oberoi- UdaiVilas, Devi Gargh, Fateh Garh Palace, Chunda Palace, Leela Palace Kempinski. The best time would be August to December. However, make sure you do the bookings early.
3. Jaipur
Jaipur is another royal location for destination weddings. This royal capital of Rajasthan is often known as the ‘Pink City’ that offers a mélange of heritage and exquisiteness for all the grandiose marriage celebrations with the authentic ostentatious palaces or erstwhile mansions. The majestic wedding with nothing but be a royal affair with the aristocratic decorations. The best places for the destination wedding will be the Raj Palace, Rambagh Palace, and Jai Mahal Palace. The best time would be early November or late February but make sure you plan everything well in advance.
4. Jodhpur
Jodhpur, serves as the gateway to the mysterious land of boundless sands, is again situated in Rajasthan, which clearly has no earth of exotic and regal destination for the big fat Indian weddings. The grand palaces are great for extravagant weddings in the beautiful ‘blue city’. The beauty, magnificence and sheer royalty of this place is outstanding and a dream destination. The suitable places in Jodhpur will be Ranbanka Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhavan Palace and Ajit Bhawan. The best time would be September to November. However, do confirm with the venue officials for customizing your wedding package if you are on a budget.
5. Agra
Agra sounds one of most clichéd destinations for wedding but the splendid beauty of the place cant be ignored at all. The place is itself the epitome of love with the beauty of the Taj Mahal and has a touch of historic and ethnic beauty to it. Thus, the opulent and royal wedding ceremony can easily be conducted here with numerous wedding venues. This city has many gigantic hotels and resorts looking across the Taj. The best time for the wedding in Agra is between October to January.
6. Hyderabad
Hyderabad is known as the “Pearl City” and indeed it is a city of pearls and nizams. Thus, this is surely one of the dream wedding destinations with a real and the romantic one. The best and opulent venue would be the Taj Falaknuma Palace surrounded by the rich culture of Nizams. The palce is situated majestically on the hills of about two-thousand- foot high and the grandeur celebration with be eye catching. The Main Lawns holds a capacity of 1500 guests. The other places would be the Chowmallah Palace in Hyderabad. The time for tying the knot would be October onwards.
7. Kerala
Kerala, one of the best destinations for wedding, is also commonly known as ‘God’s Own Country’. The serenity of sprawling backwaters and various inland water bodies is the beauty one can crave for. One of the best resorts in India called the The Leela, located at Kovalam, is a perfect pick for destination wedding. Apart from that, there are various beaches, straggling tea gardens of Munnar; or in the heritage building of Kochi fort. The best time to tie the knot in Kerala is from September to March.
8. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Go a little offbeat and tie the knot amidst the white sand beaches, possibly in an astonishing private resort. The place is surely a paradise with the charm of idyllic beaches and lush green forests. One of the famous places for wedding is the Havelock or the Ross Islands. You can also go for the Munjoh Ocean Resort which is a luxuriant and lavish property that is one of the most remarkable and unique resorts in Havelock. The best time pick would be in winter months.
9. Shimla
If you want a summer wedding yet a comfortable weather to begin with, Shimla is the best place for a destination wedding. The alluring mountains and the delightful city is going to make this memorable event etched in your heart forever. The beauty of tying the knot in a forest guest house or campside with rivers flowing by is going to make the wedding look extraordinary and unconventional. Woodville Palace and Radisson Hotel are some popular venues in Shimla for arranging wedding ceremonies.
10. Rishikesh
Marriage is a holy union to two souls and what place, other than the highly religious place like Rishikesh, can be an option? The pleasing, sacramental and splendid backdrop of the banks of the holy river Ganga in Varanasi or Rishikesh adds devoutness and sanctity to the ceremony. The bets place would be the banks of River Ganges, Ganga Kinare which is a fascinating haven for wedding celebrations. Apart from that, you can also choose The Hotel Ganga Kinare. Traditional wedding ceremonies are also held under the open skies. October to March would be the best time but make your bookings well in advance.
So, which is your favourite destination for your big day?
New Launch: Morphy Richards’ Global Range #ConversationStarters
Hi guys,
Few days ago I attended the Morphy Richards’ new launch in India. They brought their global range of products in India.
Prism collection
Morphy Richards is a premium kitchen and home appliances brand. They launched their global range i.e. Redefine, Prism and Total Control. Morphy Richards is known for their smart technology and innovative designs.
Mr. Shekhar Bajaj, MD, Bajaj Electricals and Mr. Anant Bajaj, JMD, Bajaj Electricals presented the new Morphy Richards range to the press and media.
Redefine
Redefine is the new premium, highly innovative product group by Morphy Richards. Driven by principles of innovation and providing exceptional quality, the range is designed to fulfil your need for brilliantly performing products that have equal aesthetic prowess. The USP of the range is the Intelligent ThermoGlass technology that allows you to clearly see your bread being toasted/water being boiled to perfection. I absolutely loved the see through toaster, it definitely is a conversation starter at your home 😀
Prism
Prism collection is a leading iconic design piece for those who do not worry about going against the crowd. The USP of the range is the most striking design with textured finish and vibrant colors and design which is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Prism collection has to be my favourite in terms of looks. Bright yellow and red toasters and kettles can make any kitchen look strikingly beautiful!
Total Control
The smartest amongst the lot is the Total Control Collection which has a range of products enabling you to prepare food just the way you like it. It uses Smart Response Technology which intelligently controls the motor in a variety of ways, providing the right level of power regardless of the mixture. It will enable you to effortlessly prepare everything from soups and sauces, pestos and cakes delivering exactly the right amount of power as and when you need it. Total Control range is quite multi-functional, one device can be used for a number of uses and for making varied dishes.
All the devices were presented beautifully with the yummy food around and we clicked number of pictures. The whole set up was beautiful!
We also saw Chef Rushina Ghildiyal use all of the appliances in a demo later on. From the soup maker to the stand mixer, toaster, kettle and the table blender (which you do not need to hold from the top, it’s hands free!) The best part about the toaster is that you can do 4 slices together and each side i.e. 2 can be kept at a different setting according to how you like your toast, light or crisp. The stand mixer for dough and soup maker are also very time saving, as you just add in the ingredients, set the time and go about finishing your other work.
We were divided into two teams and we used the appliances ourselves and had 3-4 different activities to do. Beating eggs, making mocktails and smoothies, toasting bread, we did it all. Our team won 😀
Priced between Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 30,000 these products will be made available in the Indian market starting first week of September. They are available for pre-order already.
I am definitely looking forward to it. What about you? Did you like the range? Let me know your favourite in the comments below.
Reviving 50’s fashion: Skirts in vogue this Summer
By Ankita
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The 1950s: World war is just over and people’s mind seep with liberated ideas and view. It was also a time of transition for the fashion world. Women, now venerated from preconceived ideas of feminism now opted for more of an outlandish look, never ignoring the classy quotient.
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The Vintage Era: Welcome aboard the vintage era. Fashion at this time was marked by a rather girl-next- door yet glamorous look. The dressing style of the 5o’s always fascinated me, however, what really caught my attention were the skirts
Flirty Fashion: SKIRTS
Playful, innocently flirty, these twirl-y pieces of fabric are a must-have in every girl’s wardrobe, what I believe. Skirts have gone through some major transformations over the years, however, no one wore it better than the 50’s ladies. Here are a few trending ideas that will make you the girl-next-door diva, without making it look as if you just jumped out of a medieval circus. Want a bit classy elegance wrapped in playful fashion? Stay tuned mon cheries
A. The Play Date: Full Circle skirts
These skirts were an everyday essential for women in the 50’s. Full circle skirts have a waistband just above the natural waistline, giving an illusion of thinness. They make the hips look fuller and waist smaller, and are absolutely figure flattering.
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Colours to go for this summer: Aquamarines, pastel shades of salmon and pink would suit the look best!!
Team it up with: A pair of light salmon peep toes and animal print tees and you are all set for your play date
B. For the ‘Not-so- girly-yet- girly’ Girl: Half Circle Skirts
Not the Barbie girl? This one’s just for you. A little less flashy than full circle skirt, half circle skirts have less flare at the hem. Women with naturally fuller hips would find it extremely flattering. Somewhere in between an A-line and a full circle skirt, these skirts are perfect for an everyday outing and even official parties.
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Colours to go for this summer: Tan brown, off-white shades with tiny symmetrical prints and especially shades of royal blue look best on these.
Team it up with: A pair of ballerina flats or Jelly shoes ( tan colors look best) and high-neck soft cotton blouses which are a few shades darker than your skirt. There you go, my sweet tomboy!
C. Paris is always a good idea: Poodle skirts
Poodle skirts are an absolute favourite of mine!! They remind of the streets of Paris and famous song ‘La vie en rose’. These are one such style statement that has lasted the decades. They come with very catchy embroideries like kitties, Eiffel tower, telephones and even, statements such as ‘See you later alligator’
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Colours to go for this summer: Without a question of doubt, baby pinks, Fuchsia, and light greys!!
Team it up with: A pair of cone heels or stilettos. Keep the top simple as your poodle skirt deserves most of the attention. Casual half sleeve blouses or even a very simple, tucked in, semi-formal shirt would go well with it. And your carriage is ready mademoiselle….
D. For ‘always chasing the ice cream van’ girl: Gathered Skirts
Hands up for how many of you are still stuck up in the school age! Me for sure. This one is for “I do not care what they think, I will have my ice cream" personalities. These look fabulous on women without much natural hip since the bulky band gave instant curves.
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Colours to go for this summer: When it comes to gathered skirt, it is more about the print than colour. Big bright prints on the hemline, light summer checks in shades of blue and pinks suit the look best. However, you can pretty much experiment a lot with gathered skirts.
Team it up with: A pair of oxfords or kitten heels, a few shades lighter than your attire. Buttoned up shirts in very pale and light shades compliment this look very well. Go and get your ice cream girl!!!!
E. For the Lady of the house: Pencil Skirts
Who said pencil skirts can be boring and stereotypical?? Pencil skirts are one of the most figure flattering attires on the face of the earth! However, a modified version of pencil skirts are sheath skirts which are more comfortable. But my favourite version of pencil skirts are mermaid skirts or fishtail skirts. They balance out proportion beautifully well and suit almost all body shapes
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Colours to go for this summer: As opposed to the usual black and grey, go for burnt oranges and teal colours this summer.
Team it up with: A pair of really good pumps and formal shirt, even a t-shirt. Top it off with a pale pastel colour blazer and you are all set to work, work, work, work…work.
F. For the Bay Watch Babe: Gypsy skirts
The world is going gaga over boho fashion. However, did you know that the gypsy style skirt comes from a long lost lineage of tiered skirts? Also referred to as layered skirts, these are perfect for beach outings. Long, flowy and mystic when combined with the right accessories and top, they make you look like a Greece-ian Goddess and is a win-win over bikini anytime any day. Period.
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Colours to go for this summer: Shades of pastel pink, salmon, cool light brown and sea-green would rock this look. However, the fabric is most as it needs to be extremely lightweight and flowy, with a hint of shimmer, to give you that mythical iridescent look.
Team it up with: A chiffon crop top or halter neck with a bejewelled neckline will complement these skirts best. A pair of gladiators, add on some boho trinkets, are you a goddess of the seas or what??!!!!
Who said classy can’t be sassy? These were my ideas of 1950s fashion revival with a little bit of my own twist. What are yours?
Any suggestions, comments, and ideas are always welcome 🙂
