When I started Open Spaces, I was ready for a creative project. I wanted to bring together my two passions - travel and art -  in relation to nature and the outdoors. Anything digital was always out of the question; I wanted to create something that was tangible that we could hold, touch, keep, and share. That’s how the magazine was born!

Travel is a significant part of the magazine, but it’s more about discovery and curiosity. You don’t necessarily have to travel far to experience this. It doesn’t require hours on a plane, train, or car; simply being open to new experiences is enough. This is the essence I aim to convey through my choice of articles for each issue—it’s about embracing experiences and being willing to learn.

For me, they blend naturally! When I travel, I always seek out galleries, artist studios, and unique architecture. For instance, if I visit Rio, I’ll explore brutalist modernist houses or stop by an artist's studio. Understanding a place through its history and creative story is incredibly important to me.

My background has deepened my appreciation for people and cultures, helping me understand their habits and capture their stories. During my time in Haiti, I spent days conducting focus groups to understand local needs. This research shaped my perspective, inspiring me to dive deeper into the stories of people and places rather than just skimming the surface. That’s why our articles tend to be longer.

Local perspectives are crucial to me when telling a story or photographing a place. I always ensure that the story is told by someone from the area or someone who has spent significant time there. This connection is essential. To be honest, as an independent magazine with a limited budget, we can’t afford to fly expensive photographers around the world. Even if we had the budget, I would still prefer to work with local talent—there are amazing photographers everywhere; you just need to find them! Contributors typically reach out to me, or I meet them along the way. We often take our time discussing projects; sometimes, it may take a year or more for something to come to fruition.

I always start working on an issue without picking a theme to start because I don’t want to limit the topics we explored. But yes, themes often emerge as the content comes together, like a closing note. My editor’s note usually introduces the theme we’ve ended up with. I’m always brimming with ideas and spend time each morning jotting them down. From these musings and discussions with others, the magazine takes shape. I also love leaving room for unexpected additions if a great new opportunity arises. I guess I like to keep things open to surprises!

I want to inspire people. I hope to encourage them to connect with their surroundings, appreciate the beauty of nature, and spend more time outdoors, as it has so much to offer. Happiness can be in the little things in life. It’s the journey, not the destination that matters. At least this is how I conceive each issue.

Pursue it as a passion, because print is not an easy industry. Always be honest and true to yourself and your audience. Don’t do it for fame or lifestyle; do it because you want to share something authentic.

I envision continuing to produce print issues with the same passion and dedication. I’d love to collaborate with brands interested in our content and visuals. Ultimately, my dream is to start a small hotel chain in beautiful natural landscapes. Maybe my first one being in Canada, where I spend a lot of time.

Now that I've moved to LA, it's been much easier to stick to my morning routine, which is essential for setting the tone of my day. My mornings are truly important: they help me feel balanced as the day unfolds. I usually wake up around 6 AM, giving myself an hour to ease into the day. I start with meditation and journaling, and sometimes I incorporate Moxa, a Chinese medicine practice where a warming stick is used on specific points on the body.

After that, I go for a walk to my favourite coffee, get a coffee, and check my emails on the way back. Once home, I shower and head to the office. And breakfast is a must—I never skip it! It's my favourite meal, so I make sure to have something nourishing, whether it's overnight chia pudding, eggs, or some bread with almond butter or ghee.

Meditation and yoga are my main practices. I also like to journal right after meditating, even if it’s just for a couple of minutes—it’s a simple way to connect with and understand my emotions each day. Walking is another form of meditation for me; I love early morning hikes or even a 15-minute walk to my coffee shop. Walking really grounds me.

I discovered gemstones as I started exploring Eastern medicine years ago. Honestly, it can be overwhelming to remember all the different stones and their properties, but I truly believe in the energy each stone or crystal holds. They’ve been used for centuries for their healing qualities and unique vibrations, which I find deeply grounding and inspiring. When I wear them, I feel more connected to both nature and tradition—it’s a simple way to carry a sense of balance and energy with me throughout the day.

There are so many! I'll just mention a few favourites since the list could go on. For wellness, Tao of Wellness is at the top—Dao has been my acupuncturist for years, actually introduced to me by Noor! I've taken countless Chinese herbal treatmenrs there. Another favorite is Open, a yoga studio in Venice. I take classes with Manoj, an incredible breathwork and meditation teacher whose voice and music are so captivating.

As for food, I'm a big fan of Thai cuisine, and my go-to is Cholada in Malibu. It's a local spot, known mostly by regulars, where I love to go after a sunset walk on the beach for some warm soup and green curry. "All Time" is another favourite neighborhood spot with organic, fresh produce and a friendly, local vibe. I recently found a Lebanese restaurant that reminds me of Beirut—I go there or order in when 'm feeling nostalgic; it really feels like a little piece of home.

For art, I enjoy visiting LACMA for its exhibitions. And the Huntington Botanical Gardens are such a hidden treasure; it's definitely a must-visit spot if you're in LA.

I like to keep my jewellery style simple and meaningful. I usually wear a set of rings on my fingers—sometimes the same ones for weeks on end, as they feel like an extension of me. I’ll often add a single necklace or pendant, choosing one that complements my outfit for the day. I love pairing a beautiful pendant with a simple T-shirt or sweater; it’s an effortless way to elevate my look while keeping it understated and personal. My jewellery feels like a reflection of my personality—simple, intentional, and versatile.

I’d say my style is sophisticated yet simple, with a slightly bohemian touch—very much an “LA style.” It’s all about balancing effortless elegance with a relaxed vibe.

I love using statement earrings to add a touch of elegance—they can elevate any look. Especially for evenings when my outfit is simple, a bold pair of earrings does the trick, making the whole look feel polished and complete.

If you know me, you know my bucket list can be pretty long :)

At the top is spending my 40th birthday in Bhutan with my husband—it feels like the perfect place for a meaningful celebration. Another dream is to go heliskiing in Norway with him; we love adventure, and it would be an incredible experience to share together.

I also want to do a full Panchakarma (Ayurvedic retreat) in India. I've tried it in the U.S., but I'd love to experience it in its place of origin.

And, last but not least, I want to travel solo through Japan. I've been with family before, but going alone would be different—it would allow me to fully embrace the spiritual aspect of the journey.

My advice is to keep a routine as much as possible, even when you’re on the go. I try to find a yoga class wherever I am—it keeps my body moving and helps me feel grounded. I also focus on eating healthy, not skipping meals, and sticking to regular sleep times. These small routines make a big difference and help me stay balanced and healthy, even in a busy environment.

Usually people call me Yara, or Yaya.

I am Lebanese, so I guess I am Arab?

I live in Los Angeles! (Lucky me)

I'm a scorpio.

Right now, I am loving Saint Levant, he is a Palestinian French rapper. I'm in that vibe now.

I am more of a sunrise person, as I am a morning person. I like the morning, my coffee, and my breakfast. This is also when I get more creative.

In 2024, I moved to Los Angeles, big achievement coming from NY! Lol I managed to convince my husband to move here, finally. I manifested this life for so long, closer to nature, hiking in the morning at sunrise, being by the ocean. I am more at peace and more inspired.