From Pop-Up to Powerhouse

Parsa Fatema Ismail’s Luxe BD has become a driving force in Dhaka’s event industry, fostering a thriving ecosystem for local businesses and setting new standards.

Luxe BD, the brainchild of Parsa Fatema Ismail, was born from a singular ambition: to redefine Dhaka’s event landscape. “I was always fond of arranging soirees,” Ismail explains, “and I possessed a keen, innate interest in event planning.” Recognising a clear market void, she strategically positioned Luxe BD to bridge the gap between burgeoning online entrepreneurs and their clientele, establishing a trusted nexus for lifestyle businesses.

From its initial conception as an exclusive pop-up hub, Luxe BD has ascended to become a preeminent exhibition management powerhouse. Ismail’s entrepreneurial methodologies, notably her early mastery of social media marketing and strategic influencer collaborations, set an industry benchmark. “My first event generated such unprecedented social engagement that it became a resounding success,” she recalls. This innovative approach has since been widely adopted across Dhaka’s exhibition sector.

The journey, however, was not without obstacles. The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges, resulting in financial setbacks and temporary discouragement. Yet, Ismail’s unwavering resilience propelled Luxe BD forward. Beyond her personal achievements, she has cultivated Luxe BD into a vital ecosystem for countless entrepreneurs, extending even financial support to those with exceptional potential.

Ismail’s remarkable ability to harmonise entrepreneurial endeavours with academic excellence and family life embodies her resolute determination. Holding degrees from IUB and Gloucestershire University, and completing a prestigious leadership programme at Oxford, all while steering a thriving business and nurturing her family, underscores her exceptional capabilities. Today, Luxe BD serves as a powerful example of her vision and commitment, empowering a multitude of online businesses and elevating Dhaka’s dynamic lifestyle market.

Dhaka witnessed a Ramadan spectacle unlike any other as Luxe Bangladesh, under the masterful direction of Parsa Fatema Ismail, hosted ‘Luxe Eid Gala & Sehri Bazaar 2025,’ in collaboration with bKash Limited. Marking Ismail’s 30th exhibition since 2018, this event, held on March 14th and 15th at Aloki, Gulshan-Tejgaon Link Road, went beyond retail; it was a cultural seismic shift, redefining festive celebrations and empowering local entrepreneurs on an unprecedented scale.

Parsa Fatema Ismail curated an unparalleled experience, bringing together over 140 lifestyle stalls showcasing the country’s finest designers, exclusive clothing, jewellery, menswear, children’s wear, branded accessories, and home décor. Complementing this diverse retail landscape were 30+ popular restaurants and food carts, offering a delectable array of cuisines. Recognising the unique spirit of Ramadan, the event extended until Sehri, creating an extraordinary shopping and dining experience that catered to all ages and preferences.

‘Luxe Eid Gala & Sehri Bazaar 2025’ was a celebration of community, a space where families and friends could gather and embrace new traditions, fostering community spirit. The event’s inclusive nature ensured that everyone, from children to seniors, found something to enjoy. Notably, nearly 90% of the participating entrepreneurs were women, showcasing their creativity and contributing to the event’s dynamic energy.

The response was nothing short of phenomenal. The event shattered records, drawing a staggering 25,000+ attendees over two days, including all the who’s who of Dhaka’s social scene. Participating businesses reported unprecedented sales, while social media platforms overflowed with glowing reviews and praise. It unequivocally established itself as the grandest Ramadan event of the season and left an indelible mark on the community, setting a new standard for festive celebrations and empowering local entrepreneurs in the process.