January 11, 2012
Like what I mentioned before, 2012 is all about playing “bahay-bahayan” — decluttering and upgrading our space.
These new programs from School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) Interior Design couldn’t have come at a better time:
The SoFA Design Institute expands its reach beyond fashion because even your living spaces should be an expression of your creativity and style!
Programs starting January 2012
1) Basic Interior Decoration Course
The knowledge of interior decoration–stripped down to the basic!
Learn to give warmth in an albeit empty space by using the basics of interior decoration. Designed specifically for people who wishes to enhance their interior knowledge, working professionals interested in getting into the craft and suppliers or contractors looking for creative ways to apply decorative finishes.
2) Understanding Color for Interior Spaces
Applying color to your space is a craft–from proper mixing, to combination of color to applying in your palette. A bit of color, as they say, can go a long way–understanding color for interior spaces might just be that added thing needed to improve your empty space!
3) Illustration for Interior Spaces
Creating floor plans and drawing two-dimensional forms needs not be complicated! Created specifically for people with no prior knowledge in illustration, this course aims to teach the stripped down basic in drawing interior spaces.
4) Study of Interior Finishes & Materials
The use of materials is endless if you know how twist and bend it! This particular course aims to introduce its history, installation and use. Included as well are the techniques on how they can be decorated from its simplest to most avant-garde form.
Contact details: SoFA Design Institute, Ground Floor Enzo Building, Buendia Ave. Makati City. (632) 4784611 admissions@sofamanila.com. Visit their website: www.sofainteriordesign.com
Shopingero/shopingera, enroll now!
January 6, 2012
First of all, thank you @Briankingong and the Department of Tourism for the invitation:
Unfortunately, I had work that day so I was not able to make it. I heard that the conference was inspiring.
So eto na pala ang ganap:
Wala munang kukontra para #itsmorefuninthePhilippines! Haha!
Visit http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/
The Department of Tourism’s (DOT) new slogan is truly… PAK na PAK! So many of our friends overseas are missing us now because of this viral madness! NKKLK magpasabog ang DOT… #1 Trending worldwide? 10am pa lang, ha! Intense!
Loving this campaign:
It IS more fun in the Philippines! We are and have always been a culture and a people that overflows with positivity and joy. San ka pa… Everyday there’s a party to go to! Every island is a different adventure and culture! Every karaoke song is memorized! O, di ba?
While this is a great celebration of our “fun-dation” as a nation (naks! Please credit me for that. LOL), let’s all remember, WE are what makes it and what keeps it fun. We should desire, plan, and take action to keep our country as awesome as it is. Support environment campaigns, cooperate with government efforts to make our country more tourism friendly, and in our own little way, make the effort to spread the good vibes. Offer to tour a balikbayan friend (Carlos Celdran’s tour is a must), read up on our country’s hidden gems, or just smile more at everyone! A little bit of positivity goes a long long long way, bhoys, ghels, and gheys!
Believe me, I’m not totally carried away by this “fun” hype because the truth is there are so many things that need to be done, but I am all for spreading fun and positivity to jumpstart DOT’s plans! Go ako jan!
So I urge you to spread the word: BAWAL DITO ANG KILLJOY! Haha! Let’s all work to make a difference and create a better Philippines! If we do it all for “Juan”, we’ll have even more fun!
Grabe ‘tong slogan na to! Nakaka inpire magrhyme! Haha!
Spread the word, spread the love, spread the fun! #1forfun #itsmorefuninthephilippines
To the Department of Tourism and DOT Secretary Mon Jimenez, congratulations! Also, please keep in mind: Dream + Plan + Act = Fun!
Shopingero/shopingera, visit http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com!
January 1, 2012
First, fashion blogger, Camille Co got “Googlyfied”.
Now, the “Jenni Googly Gooeys”!
This is why Tippy and Pong’s blog Googly Gooeys won Best Hidden Gem during the Nuffnang Asia-Pacific Blog Awards in Malaysia:
Thank you Tippy and Pong for the "Jenni Googley Gooeys"!
Awesome details and funny anecdotes, T & P! Love, love, love the Googly Gooeys!
Remember: Start the New Year right and kyoot! 
Shopingero/shopingera, visit www.googlygooeys.com now!
December 26, 2011
As you know, my blog was the Philippine finalist (Best Lifestyle Blog) for the Nuffnang Asia-Pacific Blog Awards (NAPBAS). All the finalists and other bloggers were invited to the event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The truth is, I had second thoughts on flying out to Malaysia as I had several advertising jobs booked and after eleven months of non-stop work, I was exhausted. In fact, the day before my flight, I just finished styling a TVC shoot. So basically, from work, I went straight to the airport… in Clark, Pampanga… at 5:30 am. @.@
It was my family who really pushed me to go. They knew how passionate I was in blogging and to have the opportunity to represent the Philippines was an honour. They told me that I could rest when I get back. Oh-kay… thanks guys, ha.
Scenes from the airport:
Say ni Michael Jackson, "Who's bad?"
Name that luggage
All I can say is, thank God for zippers!
Do not judge me, Erwan!!!:P
Touchdown Malaysia!
This is for realz!
BONGGA ang Malaysia! LOL
After 12 hours of traveling (don’t ask why), we finally arrived at Marriott Hotel in Putrajaya. Needless to say, I. Am. Hungry.
Hotel burgers rock!
We arrived in KL at around 5:30pm and the awards night was at 7pm. Oh-kay… I. Can. Do. This.
The Nuffnang Asia Pacific Blog Awards (NAPBAS)
NAPBAS is an event where the best of the best bloggers in Asia-Pacific are celebrated and honored for their hard work and contribution to the blogosphere.
Last December 16, 500 bloggers and guests from all over the Asia-Pacific region walked the red carpet and treated to a night of fine dining and entertainment in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Love the ribbon corsage they gave all the finalist
NAPBAS is one of the most prestigious blog awards in Asia.
NAPBAS is not entirely a popularity contest. Love that!
Read about the panel of judges here.
Team Philippines
Finalists: Erwan Heussaff (for Best Food Blog), me (for Best Lifestyle Blog), and Camille Co (for Best Fashion Blog)
Les Girls: Me, Camille Co, and Lareen Uy
Meet my roommate, Kring! She is the youtube sensation of My Korean Boyfriend (so far, almost 500,000 views!)
Kring of http://mykoreanboyfriend.com
She is also responsible for my minor “heart attack”! Haha!
Me: “Hi! I’m Jenni!”
Kring: “I’m Kring!”
Me: “Blah, blah, blah!”
Kring: “Blah, blah, blah… Do you know who you’re up against?”
Me: “Uhm, I have an idea. I clicked the links of my fellow nominees from the Nuffnang site. Though, I didn’t have time to do my research.”
Kring: “OMG! Do you know that you’re up against Xiaxue??? She’s a legend! She won Best Lifestyle Blog, Most Influential Blog, and Region’s Best Blog during the last NAPBAS! She’s huge in Singapore! But you know… good luck! Hope you win!”
Me: “WHAT??? Now, I’m nervous.”
Kring: “Hindi! Kaya mo yan!”
Me: “Thanks.” @.@
The young and the restless: Nuffnang's big bosses, Cheo Ming Shen and Timothy Tiah Ewe Tiam
Presenters: “And the winner of the Best Lifestyle Blog goes to…” *drumroll*
Kring (my roomie): “Tingin ko si Xiaxue na yan.” *sad face*
Me: “Yeah, yeah!” *Busy-busyhan with my phone*
Presenters: “JEEENEEE PEARSON!”
Team Philippines: *goes wild* CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
Me: *claps* *disoriented*
Team Philippines: *screaming and pointing at me* “YOU WON! YOU WON! YOU WON!”
Me: “I’m Jeeeneee Pearson? Oh! I’m Jeenee Pearson!” *catatonic*
Believe me, I had no idea that I won. The way the presenters pronounced my name did not register in my brain or I was just too nervous!!! NKKLK! Haha!
I won! I won!
NAPBAS 2011 Best Lifestyle Blog
Thank you Nuffnang for this award! I’m so honoured!
Bigatin 'tong award — the trophy weighs 8 -10 lbs.! Haha!
Overwhelmed=)
I’m glad I flew to Malaysia. It was a great opportunity to meet fellow bloggers from Australia, China, Singapore, and the rest of Asia-Pacific. I feel such a newb in your presence! Haha! I learned so much from all of you!
Love, Team Philippines
Here’s the complete list of winners for Nuffnang Asia-Pacific Blog Awards 2011:
Best Photography Blog – Photoblog.hk
Best Geek Blog – Geekout.ph
Best Food Blog – LadyIronChef.com
Best Fashion Blog – Cheeserland.com
Most Original Blog Design – EatShowandTell.com
Best Parenting Blog – Childhood101.com
Best Travel Blog – JustWandering.org
Best Entertainment Blog – Beautifulnara.com
Best Lifestyle Blog – JenniEpperson.com
Hidden Gem – Googlygooeys.com
Best Micro Blog – KennySia.com
Most Influential blog – XiaXue.sg
Region’s Best blog – XiaXue.sg
Team Philippines got four awards during NAPBAS! Congratulations team! Reprezent!
Thank you’s:
Thanks to everyone who voted for my blog and to those who helped me campaign! Special thanks to all the celebrities and personalities (especially Tim Yap) who promoted my blog and retweeted the NAPBAS link to their hundreds of thousands of Twitter followers! I’m grateful for all your support! I love you!
After party:
Malaysia = Fashion + Food
One can never be too tired to shop. LOL
When in Malaysia, eat spicy noodles!
I’m more inspired than ever to blog!
December 22, 2011
I know, I know. I have yet to post photos from my book launch and the Nuffnang Blog Awards event in Malaysia, but I have so many photos to edit! Will work on it soon.
I’m on chill mode as of now because my work’s done for this week. After 11 months of non-stop work, I finally get to slow down and enjoy the fruits of my labor. I deserve this time off.
Christmas at Maison Epperson is now on overdrive! Wala na ‘tong atrasan! Todo kung todo! Haha!
Here are my Top 10 Christmas Treats to make the holidays merrier and bright:
1. Give love. Let’s do our part to help Sendong flood victims.
Here’s how: http://www.redcross.org.ph/donatenow
Donate now!
Self-righteous people can skip this:
This 28th of December, 2011, Seventh HIGH is holding a charity drive for the victims of typhoon Sendong in participation with DSWD. Seventh HIGH, a year old boutique nightclub in Manila, has been known to throw special charity events for different causes, including Breast Cancer Awareness, Pediatric Cancer Wards, and even HIV efforts. In light of the recent tragedy in Mindanao, Seventh HIGH seals 2011 with what the hope would be their biggest call to compassion.
Seventh High S.O.S.
Seventh HIGH Operation Sendong. Raising awareness among the urbanites of Manila, it encourages its attendees to help by bringing donations or pay door charge in order to be part of the party. Donations and door proceeds will be given to DSWD in their relief efforts for the victims of typhoon Sendong.
Supported by a large roster of celebrity and model dj’s, bartenders, and guests, the young club hopes to give its attendees an inspirational celebration of humanity that brings together music, fashion, and arts in a unified effort to revive Mindanao.
This event is open to public. Seventh HIGH is located at 7th Avenue, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City. For inquiries and reservations, interested groups and individuals may call 09063786916.
2. Indulge without feeling guilty. Thanks to Dr. Aivee Teo, I lost more than 10 lbs. (will blog about my weight-loss program soon). As much as I want to keep it off during the holidays, I also want to enjoy some of the traditional holiday treats like hot cocoa!
Here are some healthier alternatives to the decadent cocoa drink:
Numi Organic tea. It tastes like chocolate! So yummy!
Nestle Fat Free Hot Cocoa Mix
3. Movie marathon. Ditch the usual GG, SATC, Modern Family, etc. series and pop some Christmas DVD or VCD classics and watch them with kids! Here are some of our favorites:
"Home Alone 1" not in photo
The Epperson's all-time favorite Christmas film!
4. The candy cane can. You can use them as a holiday table centerpiece, decorative ornament, and as a dessert!
Candy canes are our giveaway to street children. These striped treats put a smile every time!
A simple yet personalized place card makes any table setting special!
5. Jingle bell rock! What better way to set the holiday mood than listening to your favorite Christmas carols!
Harry Connick Jr. Christmas CD not in photo.
7. Make meals and memories with your loved ones. This is the perfect time to bond with your family. Help out in the kitchen or offer a hand in setting up the table for the Noche Buena feast.
Christmas on a plate
Make your table setting fun and festive for the holidays!
8. Bake or buy cookies! Christmas won’t be the same without the smell of baked (or heated) cookies!
Personalize your dessert!
9. Holiday style. Wear a festive holiday sweater (yes, even grandma’s knitted gift) or a Christmas print pajamas, never mind what fashion experts say, tradition vetoes trends every time!;D
One of Aryanna's "Christmas" jammies
We love reindeer sweaters!
10. Say a little prayer. Give thanks to the Lord for all the blessings that has come your way and pray for those in need.
For those who are missing their families this Christmas, remember that home is where love and laughter exist. Make the best of the season wherever you are or whomever you’re with. The spirit of Christmas is in everyone’s heart!
Shopingero/shopingera, what’s your top 10 Christmas treats?
December 5, 2011
The fruits of my labor is finally here…
If you’re following me on Twitter, you would remember this:
"Just came from the printers. My book is almost ready. Very emotional day for me. #FashionplusFood"
(Photo taken using Instagram)
I went to the printer’s last week to approve the cover of my book. After all these months of working with my book designer and layout artist, Dix Perez in front of the computer, finally, I get to touch and feel the pages of my book!
I chose Print Town’s Lexmedia Digital to print my book. I used to go here a lot when I was doing Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Just Shop magazine. In my opinion, they’re the best in the biz!
Print Town's commercial press division, Lexmedia Digital Corp., Print Town Complex, Barangay Mamplasan, Biñan, Laguna
Walking inside of Lexmedia was nerve-racking for me!
OMG. OMG. OMG. It took me a few seconds to look at the printed cover as it was surreal! I mean, I have a book!!!
I used three different special colors for the front and back covers and flaps of my book. You must see it in person!
Aaaaaaaaaaaa!!! The first run of the cover is out! I want to faint! Haha!
Me: "Kuya, ano, maganda ba?" Staff: "Lapit kayo, ma'am! Maganda!" Me: @.@
Kinakabahan ako…
Front and back covers and flaps of my book
This photo of me is priceless! Notice my half smile, half crying look!
Ladies, gentlemen, and gays, I'm proud to present... Jenni Epperson Fashion + Food!!!
The tireless team who helped me produce this book:
Leah of Lexmedia and Sharon of National Book Store. Thank you so much for all your help!
I love this photo! The staff at Lexmedia Digital and National Book Store holding up my book cover. Thank you for doing a fantastic job on my book!
"Ma'am, maganda!"
Job order:
A teaser
Eto na!!!
BOOM!
Jenni Epperson Fashion + Food
Here’s a short feature about my book in yesterday’s Philippine Daily Inquirer.
Wala ng atrasan! LOL
Save the date:
Jenni Epperson Fashion + Food book launch and book signing
December 6, Tuesday at National Book Store Atrium, GF Glorietta 5 (it’s the building between Intercon Hotel and Rustan’s) at 6pm
See you there!
November 29, 2011
What happens when two lovely ladies-who-lunch invites you for, well, lunch…a very late one… as in at 2pm (so this is how they stay thin — they eat super late for lunch! LOL)? You go. So I did.
When Mons Romulo invited me to view a new “home” shop, I got excited! As some of you may know, I’ve been playing bahay-bahayan these days at “Maison Epperson”. My current obsession is furniture… and home accessories… and home decorating books, you get the picture.
I had no expectations at all going to this new joint. I thought, at best, this place would be like most home/furniture stores — quaint and stylish. Oh boy, did I get the surprise of my life!
When I pulled up to La Fuerza compound, this is what greeted me at W/17…
BOOM! Ang laki!!!
The place was packed with Manila's loveliest housewives!
Hindi ako na-brief! This is not a “shop”, this is an emporium!!!
W17 is chic mecca! I love the vignettes!
W/17 is a luxe home store with a “bespoke approach to home,” meaning that customers can customize their rugs, tabletops, and even furniture according to dimensions, materials, color, and even finishes. This gives each home a look that is truly its own, and a look that makes each one a classic in its own right.
This is so my style! Love, love, love the tuxedo-colored walls and white accessories combo!
The creative force behind this innovative home store is Andy Vásquez-Prada, one of the country’s leading interior stylists, who is bringing his style and design philosophy, along with years of experience to ensure that customers learn how they can style or add character to their homes.
In W/17, Vásquez-Prada combines Filipino ingenuity with world-class materials, ingenious designs and social responsibility. Joining him for this venture is social entrepreneur Kaye Tinga, who will be serving as W/17’s Director of Social Enterprise. Known for her civic work, Tinga’s experience with various livelihood programs would help in keeping W/17 true to fair trade principles as well as helping local communities.
I need time to save up for this table. I want it. I hope no one beats me to it. No one dares! LOL
I’ve been a fan of Andy since his Rustan’s days! Every time I see him, I gush on how gorgeous his designs are! Finally, he has ventured on his own and created something spectacular and very “Andy”.
Looking for gigantic doors?
Meanwhile, the best of Asia and the rest of the world will be at W/17, with the store showcasing Chinese antique furniture and ceramics, and B&B Italia modern furniture from Italy, among other materials that Andy and Kaye plan to bring to the store.
Shagreen love
When you need some drama...
The epitome of shabby chic!
Rick Owens would be proud
SAVE! This lamp is mine!
Visitors can expect W/17 to be a showcase of the best in both East and West, with porcelain, fine bone, and handmade dinnerware from local pottery studios, along with Iñigo Elizalde rugs, and abaca pieces sourced from around the country. The abaca pieces, in particular, are unique for their color variations, which come from both the seasons they were harvested in, and the places they were harvested from. Vásquez-Prada will be lending his distinctive touch to the local pieces as he will be designing them himself.
Filipino made jar
Play of textures
Last piece. Who will be the lucky one?
Everyone needs these in their kitchen!
Affordable and chic plato-platuhan! I waaaaant!
Luxe box
Fallen Leaf by Alexander Lamont. Beautiful!
Don’t let the size of the place intimidate you. W/17 offers a lot of affordable pieces. I promise you, you won’t be disappointed!
Lovely lattice-like finish
The elusive hand-stitched linen napkins. Unahan!
Mother of pearl knick-knacks
The lovely housewives of Manila:
Mrs. Betty Chua and Mrs. Lovely Romulo
Mrs. Telly Maclang and Mrs. Angie Tan
Jeannie Goulbourn and Frances Lim
Ladies who lunch and “launch”
Mons Romulo and Kaye Tinga
Can I I just point out that the gold snakeskin wedge of Mons and the cork Louboutin slingbacks of Kaye are TDF! I can’t wait for our next “merienda” session! Humanda kayo, nakaoutfitey na ako! Haha!
Despite my very casual attire, what I wore looked great against the Iñigo Elizalde rugs! LOL
W/17
W/17 is the new power player in the home department. Their collections are chic, modern, well-priced, and well-edited. If I were a bride again (which can happen… when Tom and I finally have our church wedding… soon), I would have my bridal registry here! Walang itapon!
Truly, W/17 is a world of its own to discover, and with its unique philosophy and high-quality materials, it is sure to become the benchmark in home stores here in the Philippines.
Congratulations Andy and Kaye! W/17 is a gem!
W/17 is located at 2241 Pasong Tamo, La Fuerza Compound, Makati City. Visit their website: www.w17home.com.
November 28, 2011
I’ve been racking my brains, trying to figure out how to write this post since my journey for this project to see the light of day was a lengthy roller coaster ride that was fun, satisfying, exciting, stressful, nerve-racking, and wonderful experience. I mean, how does one summarize such an amazing episode in their life? I can’t. The best person to write about it is the woman who had faith in me and paved the way for my future. She touched my life more than words could ever say and I shall forever be immensely grateful for this. She is none other than my publisher, Xandra Ramos-Padilla of National Book Store.
Thank you NBS for making my dream come true!
I will preempt my Publisher’s Note on my book because this is essentially what happened:
“I first met Jenni as the super fashion stylist and shopingera, famously styling advertisements and celebrities. She produced weekly fashion editorials and shopping guides in the Philippine Daily Inquirer that I would look forward to each week as the images were aspirational but achievable. As a stylist she had much more to share. In 2006, she started her blog as the Mabuhay Girl on Multiply, where she would share her shopping finds and fashion adventures. Like any talented lifestyle denizen would, Jenni evolved and added other skills and talents to her resume, becoming a multi-tasking personality — with several interesting slashes to her occupation — while reaching a wider base of readers. Jenni the stylist has also become Jenni the designer/chef/food stylist/tablescape artist/décor diva/shopingera/wife/mom.
Her blog likewise transformed into her website, www.jenniepperson.com. She is busy running from shoot to event to project with many deadlines to meet while raising a beautiful teenage girl and a precocious toddler. Yet she finds the time to prepare and share special meals with her family. She makes the balancing act of family and fashion seem so easy and effortless.
I approached her to produce a book that consolidated all the advice dished out in the blog into one beautiful tome. The book is organized by occasion. The usual holidays are elevated to a higher level, while the ordinary ones are made more special by little thoughtful details and a lot of creativity. It wouldn’t be Jenni’s book without the elements of food, fashion and stylish décor and tablescapes combined. Thus, I am delighted to present to you: ‘Jenni Epperson Fashion + Food’, as part of the National Book Store lifestyle publishing program.
To Jenni’s readers, I hope this book inspires you as much as it has inspired me to live every day in style.”
Xandra Ramos-Padilla
Purchasing Director for Books
National Book Store
Here's a teaser photo of the book! Watch out for 'Jenni Epperson Fashion + Food'
*Insert drop-jaw face here* Yes, this is what I’ve been working on all year — I wrote a book! This is also the reason why I haven’t been going out, attending events, hanging out with friends, writing my column for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, and not blogging as much as I used to.
Suffice to say, this book has taken over my life for the past 15 months! It has consumed me. It had to. It was the only way that I could harness all my energy, passion, and know-how in order for me to put it in writing and pictures so that I could share it with all of you!
If you are following me on Twitter, you would remember this: "One of the most important parcels in my life is now in God's hands. Can you guess what it is?" This marked the day when I sent out the proofs of my book for printing. I cannot contain the excitement I feel so I could share it with all of you!
Immortalizing this book did not come with ease or in a blink of an eye. I’ve been dreaming (and drafting) about this for about 7 years! If you ask my former assistants, Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Kat Cruz, Steph Cabal, Maureen Disini, and Nina Estacio, they can attest to the fact that I’ve been wanting to write a book since time immemorial. At that time though, I was contemplating on writing a fashion/styling book, but Nina Garcia had already got that covered. She is the queen of helpful fashion books! Plus, I’m at a point in my life where fashion is not the singular aspect I am passionate about.
I wanted a book that would not only answer your fashion dilemmas but also nurture you from within; hence, the inclusion of food — cooking! I believe that life is one big celebration. That being said, each chapter of my book marks one of the most important occasions, as well a daily celebratory affair with your loved ones!
I would like to take this opportunity too to thank my team who tirelessly worked on this project:
To my dearest husband Tom, who worked with me for months on end, shooting till wee hours of the morning, and taking such beautiful shots for my book, I thank you from the bottom of my heart! I not only enjoyed shooting with you but also eating the dishes I whipped up for the book! I love you!
Thank you Dix Perez for your patience and creative prowess in designing and laying out my book! Those years we worked together in Chalk and Just Shop couldn’t have prepared you enough for this! Haha! I cannot imagine working with a better artist for this project. You simply gave life to every page of the book! You are amazing!
To Bea Ledesma, thank you for editing my work. Without you, all the punctuation marks would have been exclamation points!!! I love you!!!
Big thanks to the young and the restless, Soleil Ignacio and Kris Abrigo for the beautiful artworks! I can’t wait for everyone to see how talented you guys are! Goes without saying I love your work!
Special thanks to Abbi Gabasa for helping me brainstorm for this book to materialize. Thanks for listening!
Thank you Miguel Ramos of NBS for the undying support. You rock!
I would also like to thank my Philippine Daily Inquirer family, especially, Ms. Thelma Sioson-San Juan for always believing in me. It means a lot to me.
To all my friends, thank you for all the love, support, and understanding! I am the luckiest person in the world to have been blessed with such amazing friends! I love you all!
Special mention to my best friend Tim Yap, thank you for always guiding me and loving me unconditionally! I love you!
To my children Aryanna and Dylan, you are my loves and my life! You continuously and endlessly inspire me. Everything that mom does, she does for both of you!
To my parents, sister, and brother, I love you more than words could say. I dedicate my book to all of you!
Last but not the least, to my lovely readers and Team JENNIration (worldwide, o, diba?), this book is for all of YOU! Thanks for all the support and I am grateful for the community that I have in the world wide web! You guys are the best!
Ladies, gentlemen, and gheys, mark your calendars! I am launching my book on the 6th of December 2011, 6pm at National Book Store, Glorietta 5. I hope to see you there!
More details on the book soon!
November 26, 2011
The Philippine Tatler Ball is THE most sophisticated event in Manila. More than being a bubbly and ballgown event, it aims to raise money and awareness for different charities. This year, the lavish fundraiser was for the benefit of Habitat for Humanity Foundation. Auctioneers, Tessa Valdes and Tim Yap were able to raise around P3 million in less than an hour! Bravo!
Congratulations to Ms. Irene Martel Francisco and Anton San Diego for helping so many causes and charities and for organizing the most fabulous formal event of the year!
I wish I took more photos but I was busy documenting my daughter’s first formal event. Thanks Anton for inviting Aryanna in place of Tom! We had a grand time!
Look who we first saw at the ball:
Aryanna with "Tito" Tim! The youngest couple at the ball! Haha!
The man of the hour, Philippine Tatler’s editor-in-chief Anton San Diego with Aryanna.
“Team JENNIration”. With my former assistants, Mau and Nins! So proud of these girls!
Former Philippine Tatler fashion editor turned designer Maureen Disini; Me; Tatler fashion editor Nina Estacio; and Aryanna
My BFF’s
Tim Yap and Marc Gueco
Metallica! Aryanna and I both wore Jun Escario and Aranaz bags that night! Thank you Jun and Amins!!!
Photo op!
Raymond Gutierrez in a stunning Avel Bacudio jacket, Aryanna, and Ms. Pops Fernandez
Elegant table setting prepared by Makati Shangri-la Hotel
Sharing is caring
Aryanna with Ginggay Joven- Dela Merced. She witnessed how intense we were in taking pictures of each other! Haha!
Aryanna and Alex Escat in Rajo Laurel
Style icons, Ricky Toledo and Chito Vijandre
Inquirer Radio's Paulo and his lovely wife, Ria Prieto, in Charina Sarte
My girl, Celine Lopez and HOTT beau Paul
And the best-dressed couple in our books goes to…
Dennis and Tessa Valdes! Tessa was literally glowing (read: LED lights sewn in her gown) in her megawatt Rajo Laurel couture! Ahmayzing!!!
I spotted my weight-loss doctors too at the ball! I can’t wait to blog about how effective their program is!
Dr. Z and Dra. Aivee Teo
The young and the restless:
Tim, Aryanna, and Tim's nephew, Kevin Yang
Isabelle Daza in a stunning Jun Escario metallic evening dress, Aryanna, and the beautiful Heart Evangelista
Belle was so cute that night, when she saw Aryanna, she whispered to me, “sabihin mo sa kanya wag muna magboyfriend, ha!” Very, very ate lang s’ya! No worries Belle, she’s only 15 yrs. old, no plans in getting into a relationship yet.
The food:
Jamón Ibérico and cheese
Grilled fish in tomato soup
Sorbet on an ice sculpture
I skipped the main course as I don’t eat lamb but according to my seatmates, it was mouthwatering!
Churos and crème brûlée for dessert
I wore a platinum Jun Escario gown to the ball. It was comfortable and beautiful! The jersey fabric Jun used was the same as Halston’s. The evening jacket was made from leather and abaca! My mother of pearl and snakeskin clutch is from Aranaz.
I have to mention that the evening jacket I wore was an original fabric made by designer Jun Escario called "JEBU" (short for Jun Escario, Cebu). It is made from leather and abaca. Very ingenious! I wish I took a detailed shot of the jacket because the weave is just incredible! I'm honored to be the first to wear it!
Aryanna also wore a nude and gold Jun Escario gown, a Vero by Gladys Young bronze choker, and an Aranaz bag. My baby looks amazing! Thank you fashion godmothers!
Aww...
Past her bedtime. LOL
Parting shot
(Photo taken using Instagram)
Congratulations again to the whole Tatler team! Happy 10th Anniversary! More power to you!
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November 21, 2011
Last Saturday was the 10th anniversary of the Philippine Tatler. Tom and I were honored to be invited to one of Manila’s most fabulous events.
Every year the Philippine Tatler organizes this formal affair all in the name of charity. This year’s beneficiary was Habitat for Humanity.
Congrats Philippine Tatler!
A day before the event, Tom told me that he was still too sick to attend the ball. *Insert my panic face here*
Tom: “Hun, I don’t think I can go with you to the ball tomorrow.”
Me: “Drink Berocca!” (Yes, Berocca is my answer to all sicknesses.)
Tom: “Seriously, you better inform Anton.”
Me: “Huuuuun! I need a human crutch! My shoes are high! Oh yeah, who am I going to have fun with?”(Chozera!)
Tom: “Bring Aryanna.”
Aryanna: “I don’t have a gown.”
*Insert stressed face here*
I informed Anton about my dilemma and he was kind enough to invite my daughter in place of Tom. Thanks Anton!
The only problem was to get a gown and accessories for my daughter. I am very lucky to be working in the fashion industry and having designer friends. Don’t hate me.
SO, how do “Cinderella’s” prepare for the ball?
Ever since designer Jun Escario saved me from my fashion dilemma two years ago (read my previous blog on the 8th Tatler Ball and the 9th Tatler Ball), I’ve been going to him for my formal wear needs. I am grateful that he also became Aryanna’s fashion godmother for this ball! Thank you Jun-Jun!!! We love you!
Thanks also to Hilki, Faye, and Anna for helping us out!
Aryanna choosing a gown for her first formal event.
Aryanna is only 15 years old so an age-appropriate gown and shoes are musts! She brought her own oxford high heels to Jun's atelier. Good thinking sweetheart!
Luckily, Vero by Gladys Young is also in Jun Escario’s atelier, so we were able to borrow accessories.
She chose this simple Vero bronze choker as her accessories. Beautiful!!!
Aryanna chose a beautiful Jun Escario gown and it fit her like a glove! Model size! Ah, the youth! LOL
Visit Jun Escario at the 2nd level of Greenbelt 5
We went next door to choose bags from my long time friend and bag designer, Amina Aranaz-Alunan. I love Aranaz bags because not only that they are made in the Philippines, the designs are modern, fun, and well-made.
Special thanks to Amina’s mom, Tita Becky, who was luckily in the shop, helped us choose our bags! We love you both!
Bag heaven at Aranaz!
Aranaz bags
Thank you also Monica Figueroa for the silver sky-high shoes!
I love the pleats detail and turquoise sole!
Before we head to the ball, the “Cinderella’s” need to do some domestic work (read: grocery).
Real life
Last minute primping = Home service
Aryanna and I chose matching nail polish. We used Essie "Wicked" (in honour of Cinderella's wicked stepmother, haha).
I booked make-up artist Fennie Tan to do my hair and makeup. She also helped Aryanna fix her hair! Thanks Fenn!!!
Aryanna: "I can get used to this!"
This was the first time my daughter attended a formal event. I wanted it to be special for her and we were both excited!
Life is filled with surprises; ours that day was having fairy godmothers bestow beautiful clothes and accessories on us! We are grateful!
More of the 10th Tatler Ball soon! Tune in for part 2!
Jun Escario 2nd level Greenbelt 5, Makati City
Vero by Gladys Young available at Jun Escario’s atelier, Greenbelt 5
Aranaz 2nd level Greenbelt 5, Makati City
Makeup artist, Fennie Tan +639178900818
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