Tag Archives: jenni epperson

One on One with Chef Sonja

Posted on by
Reply

Let me start by saying, the name Sonja of ‘Cupcakes by Sonja’ is pronounced as son-jah not son-ya. Dami kasing nagtatanong. LOL

Now that we’re all clear on that, it’s my honor to feature on my blog one of the most passionate and humble chefs I know cupcake Queen Chef Sonja Ocampo.

Sonja is a Slavic name that means wisdom. For Sonja, what is the meaning of Sonja? Can you relate yourself to Slavic? Wisdom?

Restless. I’m really quite active and eager to learn. I constantly challenge myself to try and discover something new. I do my best to not to take anything for granted.

I always feel like I don’t really know enough so maybe I’m always in search for wisdom in the things that I do.

Piggybacking on the topic of wisdom, what have you learned since opening Cupcakes by Sonja in 7 words for those 7 years?

Always keep your foot on the ground.

You can easily ride your ego right to the top and then ride them right to the bottom again. I really try to stay grounded and grateful.

What’s your favorite color? Why? How does your favorite color inspire you? Have you created a cupcake in that color? Which one is it?

For some reason, I’ve never had a singular favorite color. I tend to move from one color to the other.  I guess it depends on my mood and state of mind.

I was also into the color blue when I was about to open the store, hence the signature blue box and the colored buttercream frosting for Vanilla Sunshine and Chocolate Surprise.

Why cupcakes? Why not brownies or macarons or cake pops? What’s the magic between cupcakes and Sonja?

I think cupcakes appeal to all of us, no matter what our age is.  They’re chic, elegant, cozy, comforting and cute! They are individually portioned so unlike cakes, no one has to argue about who gets the last bite.  They go anywhere, at any time and are for anybody. They’re also the perfect treat for parties and special occasions.  And the flavor and design possibilities are endless!

I really don’t believe in scrimping on ingredients and compromising quality. I hope that resonates in the taste of our products.

Are you a hopeless romantic or a realista? How can you translate that to a cupcake? What is a Sonja’s cupcake that has the traits of a hopeless romantic?

I think I’m both.  I always start as a hopeless romantic but end up wanting to keep it real and simple.  I put a lot of heart in what I do so I guess that is the romantic in me.  For cupcake flavors, I always start with a variety of combinations but then I painstakingly narrow it down until it becomes simplified and clear. Red Velvet Vixen would be a hopeless romantic – its sexy and it screams with romance!

Which cupcake was the most fun to create? Why was it fun? Which one is closest to your heart?

They were all fun to make! But the most recent one would be our newest flavor- Upside Down Pineapple Passion Fruit Cupcake.  It’s a classic American dessert but we put a twist by adding a passion fruit cream at the center, and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. The sweetness of the caramelized pineapples just blends perfectly with the tartness of the Passion Fruit Cream.  It’s a great combo that we don’t normally see in a cupcake.

Chef Sonja Ocampo

Let’s go back to Magnolia Bakery and New York! What do you miss the most in those places?

Everything! I really love New York like no other city. I learned so much in the 3 years that I lived there. I try to go back as often as I can. I miss just being able to walk the whole day and not have any care in the world.

Lots of people say, “I ❤ NY!” or “I left my ❤ in NY!” What is your line for New York? Why?

I survived NY! I don’t think I’ve ever worked as hard as I did when I lived there. It’s not easy working at a kitchen in NY, let alone at a 4-star restaurant. Bouley was really tough but it was such a great experience. I was lucky to get sponsored but they really made me work for it.  I’m grateful because I’ve met so many people there who have now opened their own restaurants across the city.

The new Cupcakes by Sonja stores are winners! How did you come up with new ideas? How do you come up with new ideas for the stores and for the menu?

Thank you! I research a lot and I try to get out into the world to gather unique insights.  I also like to travel and absorb as much as I can from new and also familiar surroundings.

I have a great interior decorator as well. Her name is Lisa Ampil. I worked with her on the original store. We collaborated and had many dialogues about how we wanted the design of the store to evolve. She’s great at putting all the ideas together.

Who’s the best person who have influenced you to put up Cupcakes by Sonja? How?

My mom.  She would always tell me that I would end up working for the family business regardless of what career I choose for myself. It was so painful to hear.  I had watched my 2 elder brothers do exactly what my mom had told them to do. The thought of it happening to me as well was just so scary.  Because of those statements, I made it my mission to do the opposite. I did everything I possibly can to leave the country and to follow my own path. I didn’t want that for myself.  I wanted to have options.  I hated the feeling of being restricted and not having a choice. Culinary was huge at the time so I flew to New York right after my last day in school.

Shoppingero/shoppingera, visit Cupcakes by Sonja at the second floor of the Bridgeway at Glorietta 2! And soon to open at Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Eastwood City, Greenhills and TriNoma!

For more information, visit Cupcakes by Sonja online!
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/CupcakesBySonjaOfficial
Twitter http://twitter.com/CUPCAKESBYSONJA
Instagram http://instagram.com/CUPCAKESBYSONJA
Pinterest http://pinterest.com/cupcakesbysonja
Blog http://blog.cupcakesbysonja.com/
Tumblr http://cupcakesbysonja.tumblr.com/

Wake Up and Smell the Hotel Flowers

Posted on by
Reply

A pop of color, a whiff of sweet scent and a statement in a vase create a beautiful difference in your home. Start by getting inspiration from the flower arrangements that you see around you. Recently, I got my muse from Solaire Resort & Casino’s use of assorted flower bouquets highlighted using different heights of glass vases.

Lobby Lounge

I find it cute when people take pictures in front of the hotel lobby’s floral arrangement. Maybe people want to look “fresh” beside it. I don’t know. Personally, I like taking pictures of the floral arrangement itself without any obstructions so that I can copy them for my home. LOL

Bay View Suite

I believe that this gorgeous floral arrangement upstaged the room’s view of Manila Bay!

Assorted flowers using glass vessels in different heights and shapes make a grand floral arrangement.

Tip: Use similar hues of flowers to make a cohesive arrangement.

Calla Lilies, stargazer and roses spell fresh!

It's all about grouping!

I love the cascading vine used in this arrangement! Saan ako makakabili ng vine na yan???

Executive Lounge

Mala-mansion flower arrangement!

Maison Epperson:

I went to the flower market last weekend and bought some of my favorite blooms. I created my own floral arrangements at home inspired by what I saw in Solaire Resort & Casino. Check them out:

I styled my 'Virginia" Bar Cart with my 'Zelda' Tray (shop my collection at The Ramp Crossings), assorted silver Mint Julep cups and a glass cylinder vase filled with bouquets of pink and red roses.

I love the pop of pink!

Inspired by Solaire's floral arrangements, I put my own twist by combining roses and orchids in a crystal vessel. I love this!

Tip: Shop in Dangwa flower market, especially when buying in bulk, it’s way cheaper than commercial flower shops.

Be inspired!

• Take photos of flower arrangements you love.
• Prolong the life of the flowers by adding a little bleach (I use 3-5 drops of Zonrox, depends on how much water is in the vase).
• If you prefer monochromatic floral arrangements, you can arrange a couple of monochromatic arrangements and combine them in one bouquet.
• For good proportion, use different heights of vases.
• Mix vases with different textures to combine and complement.

What is a Wellness Center?

Posted on by
7

There’s this Benjamin Franklin saying that goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” that has been on my mind recently and that I hope will also inspire you to pursue the right path to good health.

My husband and I believe in preventive medicine. We have been doing our best to lead healthy lives. An example of this is our preference of chia seeds (these tiny babies are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber and antioxidants) over any other seeds or grains in the world. Before I go preaching about food, let me tell you our story.

Tom and I have been looking for a medical facility that could help us stay healthy. We’ve been reading about wellness centers abroad where people go to to get tested not because they are sick but because they want to stay healthy.

Tom and I are not LifeScience endorsers, just believers of preventive medicine but, if LifeScience is reading this, you can get us as your models. Haha!

Photo taken using Instagram

What is a wellness center? A wellness center or clinic is a building or facility that is devoted towards the promotion of healthy living as well as the prevention of illness and disease.

Early this year, Tom and I visited a total wellness facility with an ambiance that was the farthest cry from a hospital with Kenneth Cobonpue furniture to boot!

I know that most of us turn to Google for information we need on anything especially about food and health. Well, this is a first-hand experience and a scientific one at that. All of us have physical make-up unique from each other. Our genes that we have inherited from our two unique parents were combined to further that uniqueness. I believe that the “one size fits all” rule will never apply here. LifeScience provides all the medical information and tests to stay healthy.

Our research on how preventive medicine works helped us realize that we can map out the health of our future. Good thing we found out that this innovation is already available in the Philippines through LifeScience! As an investment not only to our health but also to the best life, Tom and I had below LifeScience exclusive tests done. The results took a while to come back since LifeScience sends the samples to partner Klentze Institut in Germany.

LifeScience is evidence based. They take out the guesswork by validating the Anti-aging Physician’s initial assessment through a series of laboratory tests exclusive to LifeScience. These tests determine the exact state of the patient’s well-being, validate the Anti-aging Physician’s prognosis or identify the root cause of the patient’s present health issue.

Translayshun: Waley ng hula-hula, buking na sa ebidensya! Alam na. LOL

Some of the more basic tests include:

Micronutrient Profile. This blood test shows a patient’s vitamin deficiencies as well as reveals their levels of antioxidants, nutrients and minerals essential to their bodies’ internal functions.

Tom and I are holding bags of our Day & Night vitamin packs from LifeScience.

Photo taken using Instagram

My translayshun: The Micronutrient Profile Test is a blood test that shows what vitamins we need to take. Yes! Not all of us should consume doses of the same vitamin C or E everyday. Aside from vitamin deficiency, this test also showed us our levels of antioxidants, nutrients and minerals so we know what other supplements we need to maximize our bodies’ internal operation.

Food Intolerance Test. This immunoglobin G (IgG anti-body) test determines a patient’s digestive reaction to as much as 220 food samples. Not to be mistaken with a food allergy test (immunoglobin E anti-body, or IgE), this one determines one’s intolerance to specific foods and which inflammatory reactions will eventually lead to disease.

The difference between food allergy and food intolerance

Photo taken using Instagram

My translayshun: The Food Intolerance Test, this is an immunoglobin G or IgG anti-body test that showed us what certain food we are intolerant (not allergic) to. This revealed that the healthy food like wheat and soy that I have been ingesting are food that I should avoid!Tom, on the other hand, is intolerant to milk! His 30 years of practice of drinking milk gave him that bloated feeling and he didn’t even know it. Little did we know that some food that we thought are healthy or normal for us to eat would one day lead to a disease.

This is the result of my F.I.T. I've been eating soya beans/tofu and what thinking it's good for me when in reality, according to my test, my body is intolerant to these food! After months of not eating food that I'm intolerant to, I hardly feel bloated. AMAZING!

Photo taken using Instagram

Hormone Profiling. To address problems brought about by hormonal imbalance—and there are many: stress, decreased metabolism, increased abdominal fat, reduced bone mineral density, irregular menstrual cycles, high blood cholesterol, etc.

My translayshun: Best for women who suffers from menopause.

Gene Testing. A one-time profiling test that allows patients to understand the blueprint of their DNA, this test reveals health conditions and diseases to which they are prone, and thus allow for the most ideal program to steer the patients away from living a lifestyle that will cause their bodies to take that path.

My translayshun: This will knock your socks (or stockings) off! The Gene Testing! I absolutely adore scientific breakthroughs! LifeScience describes it as, “A one-time profiling test that allows patients to understand the blueprint of their DNA, this test reveals health conditions and diseases to which they are prone, and thus allow for the most ideal program to steer the patients away from living a lifestyle that will cause their bodies to take that path.” After knowing diseases we were susceptible to, we can definitely work our way to good health!

There is only one meaning to this: a smart scientific investment to good health. It broke down the walls to what we believed were beneficial to our bodies. These tests definitely took out the guesswork and have paved the path to the healthy lifestyle we have been dreaming of. Health is wealth so they say. It is true because naivety about our own bodies results to huge hospital bills and unpleasant confinement or even surgery. I call it the missing link to the pink of health.

Brings me back to Benjamin Franklin and to the one hundred dollar bill. Think about it!

LifeScience Center for Wellness and Preventive Medicine
8th floor, Accra Law Tower, 2nd Ave cor. 30th street,
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
T: (632)- 828LIFE M: (63) 917-573LIFE

Pretty & Punk Cupcakes

Posted on by
Reply

Our favorite sugar rush place expanded, and take note, with a new look! The brand’s spanking new makeover of Cupcakes by Sonja (pronounced as son-jah not son-ya) is love! I like it better because it’s more punk than pretty. It’s all about anarchy – truly going against the grain and not the typical pastel-colored interior that everyone expects. The look is also a reflection of Sonja’s baking style — kick-ass flavors without being overly sweet.

Imagine the old world mixed with the modern kitchen, wire whisk chandelier, chairs in different designs, a counter constructed out of upcycled materials with that unmistakable Cupcakes by Sonja calligraphy.

Cool graffiti lamp

The new Cupcakes by Sonja is located at Glorietta 2 Bridgeway

It’s only been six and something years since Cupcakes by Sonja started serving its delicious, fanciful goodies, but it has changed the way Filipinos look at desserts forever. Before Cupcakes by Sonja, we saw cupcakes as little cakes with sweet-tasting frosting. We considered the cupcake a confectionary afterthought, taken only after the cheesecake, crème brulee, chocolate mousse, and pineapple tart have left the dessert cart. Cupcakes by Sonja changed all that.

When Cupcakes by Sonja opened its doors in September 8, 2006, it showed us how wonderful and versatile cupcakes are. By introducing the gourmet cupcake concept in the Philippines, Cupcakes by Sonja redefined the dessert industry by coming up with one brilliant flavor after another.

Vanilla Sunshine. A classic and fluffy yellow cupcake topped with either their signature vanilla buttercream or creamy chocolate frosting

S'mores Tart. Layers of rich dark chocolate ganache, marshmallow fluff and honey-cinnamon graham in a buttery chocolate crust, topped with a caramelized marshmallow

Berries N' Cream. Brown butter almond cupcake with fresh strawberries and whipped cream icing

Banana Walnut. Moist banana cake filled with toasted walnuts, topped with cream cheese frosting

Chocolate Overload for the chocoholics!!! Rich, moist Valrhona chocolate cupcake filled with creamy chocolate ganache and topped with velvety chocolate cream.

Did you know that Cupcakes by Sonja is only six years old? It feels more than that! Chef Sonja has truly reinvented the regular cupcake to the gourmet cupcake! I remember the long lines to get a bite of the ever-popular recreation of the PB and J (peanut butter and jelly) sandwich where she used concord grape jelly filling and peanut butter topping. How about the leveled-up red velvet cupcake? Who can forget the carrot cupcake spiced up with cinnamon and of course topped with cream cheese frosting!

PB and J. Their chocolate cupcake filled with concord grape jelly and topped with creamy peanut butter frosting

Peppermint Patty. Valrhona dark chocolate cupcake topped with their refreshing peppermint frosting

Choco Cream Pie Rich. Luscious Belgian chocolate cream in Oreo crust, generously topped with whipped cream and Oreo bits

My top 3 favorites:

Red Velvet Vixen. Traditional Southern Red Velvet cupcake made with Belgian cocoa and topped with luscious cream cheese icing

Loa Lani Coconut Cream Pie with Fresh Bananas. Luscious coconut filling flavored with dark rum with fresh slices of banana nested in a crumb crust, topped with billowy clouds of whipped cream and toasted coconut

Banana Monkey Cream Pie. Luscious banana cream with fresh slices of banana and rum-flavored caramel in a cookie crust, crowned with whipped cream

Aryanna and I have spent some of our mother-daughter bonding dates at Cupcakes by Sonja. Very memorable place for us! Truth is, Aryanna grew up eating Cupcakes by Sonja. As in, favorite! Nothing fancy naman… cupcakes and coffee or iced tea.

Sometimes, we share just one cupcake para sweet and of course, to share the calories too – haha!

Lots of shared chikahan at tawanan with my daughter at this beloved sugarlandia!

Must try: Cupcakes by Sonja’s signature Iced Tea, Lemonade and Iced Caramel Latte

Cupcakes by Sonja also makes made-to-order cakes and cupcakes

Chef Sonja, hats off to you! Thank you for starting the cupcake connoisseur trend and our sweetest dreams ever!

Check out my daughter’s cute video on how to plan a simple yet fancy tea party, teens style:

 

Tip: Watch in HD mode

Subscribe to Aryanna’s show PEPPER DRAWS!

Promo:

Want to share Cupcakes by Sonja’s brand of sweet happiness? Take photos of your favorite parts of the new Glorietta store and post it on Cupcakes by Sonja’s Facebook page. The top five photos will win a special gift from Cupcakes by Sonja.

Shoppingero/shoppingera, visit Cupcakes by Sonja at the second floor of the Bridgeway at Glorietta 2! And soon to open at Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Eastwood City, Greenhills and TriNoma!

For more information, visit Cupcakes by Sonja online!
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/CupcakesBySonjaOfficial
Twitter http://twitter.com/CUPCAKESBYSONJA
Instagram http://instagram.com/CUPCAKESBYSONJA
Pinterest http://pinterest.com/cupcakesbysonja
Blog http://blog.cupcakesbysonja.com/
Tumblr http://cupcakesbysonja.tumblr.com/

Farm-to-Table Recipe: Warm and Cold Salad

Posted on by
3

Farm-to-Table restaurants have become big. Cooking in-season is a great way to utilize healthy and fresh produce from local suppliers.

I grew up eating food with ingredients from our own backyard. My dad was a great gardener. I believe that he got it from my grandmother who could grow anything. I remember spending my vacations at my Lola Adelina’s home in Negros Occidental where my cousins and I would help in harvesting corn, sugar cane and all kinds of vegetables. My grandparents would feed us food with whatever ingredients they found in their garden.

Did you know the US organic labeling is big deal? There are three categories: 100% Organic, Organic, and Made with Organic Ingredients. The organic seal cannot be compromised.

This is not the U.S. and I don’t know the standard of organic commodities here but I never turn my nose up on local markets. Every time I have the opportunity to buy local organically grown vegetables, I take advantage.

Not a popularity contest. The organic trend is not a passing fancy but a reality. I can imagine Alice Waters with her Chez Panisse and how in an era of growth hormones broke out of the mold and has been serving organic and local harvest to their five-star tables. Of course, I drool and think of ratatouille and the reminiscing brings me back to the present and Breakfast at Antonio’s!

A little bit of history: What started as a farming hobby of Tonyboy and Agnes Escalante’s in 1997 became the home of esteemed restaurant, Antonio’s, Breakfast at Antonio’s and The Grill as well as four estates that provide the best produce to Manila’s A-list restaurants.

Another reason to drive all the way to Tagaytay is their shop filled with artisanal breads, homemade gourmet pasalubongs and organically grown veggies! Of course, I dream up dishes when I lay my eyes on the fresh, multi-colored hues that can give a pop of color to any dish like red, orange, green and yellow and sweet smelling produce! Ahhhhhhhhh!

Tom and I also dream of growing our own crops and herbs and maybe selling them too. Tom has a green thumb just like his grandparents. Like me, he also spent a lot of his Summers at his grandparents’ farm picking apples from the tree, harvesting corn, and eating grapes straight from the vine, para lang sa pelikula.

The down side about living in a condo is that we don’t have a yard to grow anything. Our patio has a few pots of herbs growing but not enough. Tom and I dream of more space for our family. Someday. Let’s cross our legs, shall we?

Spotted: itlog

Very Barefoot Contessa lang ang peg ko dito. I really want Ina Gartner’s life! I mean, the woman lives and works in the Hamptons with the view of the beach, an organic garden to boot, and she has gay BFF neighbors to hang out with!

One day, I will have Ina Gartner's life but hopefully I will not add as much butter in my recipes as she does. Bawal cholesterol. LOL

My loot!

Farm-to-Table Recipe: Warm and Cold Salad

My creative juices started flowing upon seeing these beautiful veggies! I asked myself why not whip up a contrast of flavors and senses with an organic warm and cold salad?

From Farm:

Ingredients:

Curly endives, bell pepper, radish, basil, assorted tomatoes, arugula

Tuyo

Easy peasy:

Step 1: Chop the curly endives to bite sizes. Rinse well.

Step 2: Dry the curly endives

Step 3: Preheat grill pan or large nonstick skillet over medium high heat. When the oil is hot, add the bell peppers and cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the curly endives. Stir till the greens are slightly wilted.

Add ribbons of fresh basil

Step 4: For the cold part of the salad, rinse the arugula well and dry.

Set aside the cooked veggies.

Plating:

Make a bed of arugula and top it with the warm vegetables. Garnish with slices of cold grapes, radish and some light cheese.

Drizzle your favorite dressing. I used a roasted sesame dressing for the salad.

You can also add tuyo to this salad. Tom doesn’t eat it and since gutom na kaming lahat habang ginagawa ko ‘to, hindi na pwedeng ma-contaminate ang salad-ey baka away lang. Masama pa naman awayin ang gutom. Haha!

To table:

Et viola!

A mélange of contrasts from the sweetness of the grapes and the saltiness of the cheese makes a delish, healthy salad.

Something refreshing using the garden-fresh, crisp greens, radish, grapes and cheese. Something soothing using the warmth of slightly cooked endives, bell peppers and tomatoes. Bam!

This time, my family was blown away by the complement of tastes! Well, aside from the fact that this is quite the organic salad, a delicious organic salad from market to table.

Family Weekend Getaway

Posted on by
7

Day 1

It has been ages since our last family trip to Tagaytay. Nothing much has changed from that Tagaytay we visited. The charm of this place is unchanging in its stance in the midst of neighboring developments. So instead of our usual family staycation in Metro Manila hotels, we decided to get out of the city for the long election weekend. We needed the therapeutic lull of birds chirping that was a sense of healing from the noise of the city. The fresh air from the cool mountain breeze was a welcome break from the pollution of Manila. In other words, fresh-freshan ang pegaloo!

Pine trees!!!

The month of May is also extra special for the Epperson’s as we celebrate three consecutive occasions: our wedding anniversary, Tom’s birthday and Mother’s Day.

Crosswinds Resort was the perfect venue in a picturesque Swiss Alps setting. The hundred acres of green including the 20,000 pine trees, a Christmas Village (scroll down to find out) and rolling hills just like a perfect painting.

What we like about Crosswinds is that it is located away from the hustle and bustle of Tagaytay’s main road. Crosswinds Resort Suites is located in Tagaytay City, about 2 km from the Tagaytay Picnic Grove. It’s easy to get to from the Tagaytay rotonda. Click here for the map.

We checked-in Crosswinds’ service hotel managed by Hotel International, Inc. We booked a two-bedroom suite for the weekend.

The room is simple, cozy and very zen, perfect for a relaxing weekend.

Fresh fruits and flowers welcomed the Epperson’s

Kid’s station

We love hotel rooms with kitchen!

The master bedroom with a balcony and spectacular view!

I could wake up to this view everyday.

The kids’ bedroom

Aryanna and Dylan haven’t seen rolling hills so they were blown away by the view from their room to say the least.

When out of town, go out!

Walking around the village and smelling the fresh air is something my family and I miss a lot. Crosswinds has acres of land to explore.

Dylan Finn running around and enjoying the abundance of space.

Me: “Guys, relax. Let me take your photos.”
Tom, Aryanna and Dylan: *deadma*
Me: “C’mon! Be serious.
Tom, Aryanna and Dylan: *points finger to temple*
Me: ” Da hell…”
Tom: “You said to be serious. We’re thinking. This is our serious pose.”

Our explorations brought us to hidden and undiscovered place. Like Santa’s House. OMG!!! It’s Christmas at Crosswinds 365 days!

The jokers in the family.

Sleigh ride in the Summer!

We had a great time walking around… Goofing around. Even the sky was perfect.

The life we imagined: fresh air, a yard, trees, and a Swiss chalet. Haha!

After spending time with the kids, it’s time Tom and I get to spend quality time and celebrate our 18th year anniversary.

I booked a dinner for two at Antonio’s. More about this place on my next post.

 Photo taken using Instagram

Happy Anniversary, hun! You bring joy into my life!

 Day 2

When you have a toddler, sleeping in is not an option. Even if it’s your birthday.

We took advantage of our spectacular bedroom view and had Tom open his gifts in the balcony. Again, having kids mean you never get to open your own gifts.

 Photo taken using Instagram

It’s hard to give my husband gifts as he is not materialistic. I do know that he would like some peace and quiet. So, we tried to leave him alone.

After an hour to himself, he realized we were all starving so he cooked his favorite breakfast: buttermilk pancakes!

Happy birthday, Tom!

Day 2 is all about chillaxing. No pressure to go out or be somewhere.

Aryanna and Dylan make the best playmates. They are never bored. They always find something to amuse each other. Simple things like two chairs and a comforter make the best indoor tent and a make believe cave.

Lunch meant burgers at Breakfast at Antonio’s.

When in Tagaytay, it’s all about the Taal Volcano view.

One of our favorite burgers is their House Burger. It’s simple yet mouthwatering.

Cornichon love

The soft sesame seed bun is the bomb!

Fries for sharing

Coffee break at Bag of Beans, another must-go when in Tagaytay.

Found this small store Coffee Country that sold organic vegetables. We bought some greens for dinner. It rained that day so we stayed in and cooked dinner in our suite.

Another beautiful sunset in Tagaytay.

Day 3

Mother’s Day has never been this sweet! My little man gave me a rose. I’m the happiest mom alive!

 Photo taken using Instagram

Started my day happy, cuddled my kids under the sheets. Life’s simple pleasures.

 Photo taken using Instagram

We woke up early on our last day. We wanted to beat the traffic going back to Manila.

It's always hard to say goodbye.

Good bye, Crosswinds!

Last stop

Photo ops before leaving Crosswinds. We’ll be back!!!

My family treated me to brunch for Mother’s Day. Yes, we went back again to Breakfast at Antonio’s. What can I say? We’re creatures of habit.

Aryanna’s order: Banana Pecan Waffle

For the purists like me, Golden Brown Waffle. Exactly like Pancake House’s but with better syrup.

Tom had omelette

Our rug rat runner. Sige, magpakapagod ka, Dylan!

One last look at beautiful Taal Volcano.

What a very calming and soothing long weekend! Recharged, rejuvenated and revitalized are the words that can describe what we felt – ready to take on our next adventures!

Thanks a lot to the staff of Hospitality International, Inc. of Crosswinds Swiss Luxury Resort! We hope to be back soon!

As the old world poet Ovid beautifully worded it, “Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop.”

Shoppingero/shoppingera, stop and smell the pine trees! Visit Crosswinds Swiss Luxury Resort and Hospitality International, Inc. other properties now!

International Fashion Celebrity Icon Nina Garcia in Manila for JAG Origins

Posted on by
Reply

One of the world’s leading experts in fashion and creative director of Marie Claire magazine Nina Garcia is set to arrive in Manila for JAG Origins, a fashion and design advocacy program developed by the top denim brand to nurture, promote and provide inspiration for Filipino design students and budding fashion entrepreneurs.

Happening for the first time at the Philippine Fashion Week on May 24, 2013 at the SMX Convention Center, JAG Origins is a creative platform that will spread art, design and creative thinking among young Filipino students nationwide. Envisioned to become an annual event, JAG Origins this year brings the celebrated Project Runway judge who will interact with the audience by answering their questions in a forum-type discussion that will focus on global style, design and fashion trends worldwide.

The inimitable judge on Lifetime’s Project Runway, Nina is truly a global fashion influencer with a strong online presence that reaches millions of supporters on her Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and Tumblr.

One of the world’s most influential fashion gurus, Nina is a 20-year veteran of the fashion industry who has worked with the world’s most seminal photographers, models and designers in the world. An award-winning author, she is both an advocate of early talent, as well as a supporter of historic and established fashion. Her award-winning work in the publishing industry has helped position Marie Claire as one of the leading fashion magazines in the world, in addition to strengthening its relationships with luxury advertisers and brands.

Sharing her global perspective on fashion, Nina will give guests a sneak preview of what’s to come for JAG Origins 2014.

During the forum, three world-class Filipino designers Jerome Salaya Ang, Normal Noriega and Jeffrey Rogador will present a special collection that highlights each of the designer’s distinct Filipino artistry.

I can’t wait to meet the Queen of helpful fashion Nina Garcia!

Shoppingero/shoppingera, are you ready for Philippine Fashion Week?

Beauty for all Seasons: Unilever PC Summit, Part 2

Posted on by
Reply

Products to keep you fresh tag-init o tag-araw!

Dove products define women so well… definitely can relate to us! They pamper you from head to toe:

Dove Shampoo and Conditioner Intense Repair for my hair especially after sunbathing, island hopping or snorkeling. Dove Go Fresh Body Wash in the perfect combination of Grapefruit and Lemongrass Scent that makes me feel like a queen after a shower. Keri na sans lotion because of the Nutrium Moisture!

And of course, the hair authority, Cream Silk! Impressed by the Hair Reborn Technology that Unilever has formulated to make the products beyond state of the art… the wide range of products from conditioners, daily treatment conditioners and weekly vitamin treatments restore the most damaged of hair to their better-than-virgin (my, my, my!) condition. Feel na feel ang improvement right after the pampering!

Such a feel-soooo-good product… Pond’s! Remember the Age Miracle and Gold Radiance lines that took the beauty world by storm? #LiveBeautiful is very encouraging coming from a brand that’s more than 200 years old! A winner in a lot of women’s books bags or kikay kits, Pond’s continues the legacy of providing excellent skin care that builds you up, Buttercup! At may BB cream na din sila!

Another therapeutic breakthrough product is Vaseline. Who will ever forget the “magic cream” that has provided relief from dry skin?! And now it comes with an SPF 24 and it does EVERYTHING you ever dreamed of in a lotion – whitening, moisturizing, protecting the skin! Gotta have it!

I had to smile and catch myself from falling off my seat when I remembered the jingle, “Rexona, won’t let you down!” True to its word, it won’t! It now comes in Passion and Whitening… you can keep those arms raised and proud! Two key words: dry and white!

 

Unilever PC Summit, El Nido, Part 1

Posted on by
1

I will never forget the first ever Unilever PC (Personal Care) Summit last April…

Held at the breathtaking Pangulasian Island Resort in El Nido, the summit taught me so much that it took my brain (and liver, yup, there were all kinds of tropical cocktails involved) to process all the information (and alcohol – haha!), thus my delayed post. Anyway, I was able to give you guys a blow-by-blow account of all the kaganapans on Twitter and Instagram. This blog is the nobela version at Part 1 pa lang ‘to. Humanda kayo!

Reminiscing brought me back to perfect pictures of each day in this tropical paradise… BLISS!

Cue music: “Para-para, paradise…”

Every event may pasabog… Look who welcomed us to the island! PR Head for Unilever Personal Care, Apples Aberin! She’s da bomb!

Tressemé’s Creative Director Raymond Gutierrez welcomed the group to the resort.

What is fresh and cool? I love Mondy!

All checked-in and ready to roll!

This is how we roll.

Welcome to my home. Tuloy po kayo. Kape?

Check out the view from my bahay-kubo!!!

Please feel free to leave me here 'till eternity.

Dorothy, we’re not in Kansas anymore!

Welcome goodies for my beauty. Char!

Personalized goodie bag! Love the chic design!

 Le baño

Check out the size of the bathroom! I feel sooooo beautiful in here. Lakas maka-GGSS (gandang-ganda sa sarili) dito!

People, this is personal care like no other.

1st day was a warm welcome in cool, cool white! Perfect for summer! I distinctly remember Apples in a drop-dead gorgeous white Rossana Ocampo sexy sarong skirt and cropped top that set the mood for the next one – a total Unilever experience… the amazing brands and my five senses!

Head of PR for Unilever Personal Care, Apples Aberin, then spoke of Unilever’s commitment to continuously reach out and listen to the people they serve to better understand their needs and wants. To fulfill this commitment, she then capped off the Welcome Lunch with the unveiling of Unilever’s first-ever Personal Care Brand Council who will serve as inspiration to the many Filipino lives they continue to touch.

The group was officially welcomed by Chairman and CEO of Unilever Philippines, Peter Cowan.

Gina Lorenzana, Unilever’s Vice President for Personal Care, then presented the company’s Mission Vision to sustainably uplift the lives of Filipinos. “Unilever Personal Care has the widest reach and greatest depth of brands that reaches Filipinos from all walks of life. As such, it is our responsibility to come up with products that can positively impact Filipino lives. In Unilever Personal Care, we aim to put people first,” said Lorenzana.

Time to eat!

Salad, salad kuno. Liempo naman for the main course! Haha!

Lunch was delish! I ate a lot so kailangang gumalaw-galaw baka ma-stroke. After lunch, we started our beauty tour. We were broken down into small groups and were treated to an insightful Summit Experiential Discovery Tour around the island.

A personal care tour unlike any other! I’ll write more about the fab products in my next post! For now, here’s a recap. Transforming lives, there’s the Rexona Do: More lifestyle that pretty much defining how the hottie Younghusband’s live it up: step up, do more, live more with Rexona – it won’t let you down!

Rexona challenge with brand manager Anne Remulla,Gretchen "rar" Pulido (this woman is hilar!) and Phil Younghusband (doing a chicken pose, long story). Guess who won? RAR!

Azkal superstar Phil showed us how it’s done. Cute pa rin n’ya kahit nag-pupush-up!

Uhm, anong kaganapan ‘to James? Hehe

James Younghusband doing a Rexona challenge. Dancing ba ito? Seriously speaking, he's a trooper and such a nice person. Go James!

At habang pagod-paguran and peg sa Rexona, ganda-gandahan naman kami ni teh Laureen Uy, Vaseline’s Brand Ambassador.

The lovely Laureen Uy and brand manager Jules Gulayan at the Vaseline Pavillon

And then there’s Dove! Products that make women truly feel beautiful.

Very, very light and natural lang ang peg sa Dove Pavillon.

What can I say, the biggest beauty brand for women is headed by a man. OK, lang Carlo. Alam ko naman type mong to be surrounded by women! LOL

Carlo Isla, Brand Manager for Dove; Mian Datu-David, Marketing Director for Skin

Of course, the Unilever top hair care brands: Cream Silk, Dove, Sunsilk, Clear, Vaseline and TRESemmé! Bango at gandang salon-gorgeous!

Can you guess which vignette is my favorite? *wink, wink*

Thank you Unilever PC team for including my book in your beauty shelf! So thoughtful! Bagay naman talaga yung colors ng Creamsilk with my book. Fenk!

Salon-gorgeous hair products from Tressemé

Here we go again: self-proclaimed Unilever PC beauty mascot Gretchen Pulido getting on the “hot seat”! Haha! Our tour was extra enjoyable thanks to her!

Beauty expert Lourd Ramos showed Gretchen how to change up her hairstyle and simple tips on hair care.

After spending time touring different Unilever PC pavillons, close na kaming lahat! Perfect time to visit the CloseUp vignette.

Reminisce na reminisce with CloseUp especially with the kilig soundtracks “Closer You and I” and “Moving Closer”!

My group are all smiles for CloseUp! (Front row) Gretchen Fullido, Toni Gregory, Gabby Libarios, John Imperial (Brand Manager for CloseUp and Pepsodent), Jason Domantay; (back row) Tweetie de Leon, Apples Aberin, Unilever Head of PR for Personal Care), Myrza Sison

After an afternoon of fun and insightful beauty tour, the best way to cap day 1 was with a Pond’s “live beautiful” dinner reception.

Woohoo! Beach BBQ!

Supermodels and super hosts in the haus!

Apples Aberin, Tweetie DeLeon Gonzales, Rissa Mananquil Trillo

Day 1 group shot

Kanya-kanyang paandar lang yan! Caftan and beach gowns are my favorites!

#ggss (gandang-ganda sa sarili) on IG - haha! According to our Unilever PC Passport of activities booklet, the dress code for the beach BBQ was 'Sunset hues'. Ganoon? Teka... Sunset hues ba kamo? Eto ang pasabog colors of the sun! BOOM! Kumpleto ako sa kulay! Kala n'yo , ha!

Photo taken using Instagram

2nd day was another fun-filled day! A good morning package of beauty and skin care products brought me out of bed to enjoy the seaside breakfast and a text: “Ms. Heart Evangelista would like to invite you to breakfast…” hindi ko na binasa yun buong text, HEARTY is in the island? Gow!

With the beautiful Creamsilk endorser Heart Evangelista.

While the rest of the folks went kayaking after breakfast, I went sunbathing. Chill lang. Walang effort. Bet ko yung very, very light movements lang ang peg pag nasa beach.

Good thing I had tapsilog for my bedroom ‘adventure’ where I enjoyed the comfy bed, fresh air, and the sound of the sea. In other words, buhay baboy.

Dear Unilever PC team, you surely know how to spoil us. Grabe!

I did a few laps in the pool. One lap. God, I’m so out of shape. Anyway, I did a few trips back and forth to the pool bar so I think that made up for it – hehe.

After some R&R, it was time to visit the Kalaw Villas for the Beyond Beauty Experience.

Nature and beauty abound

Beyond beauty babes

Apples Aberin and Gina Lorenzana

Day 2 was highlighted by a series of short talks about the science, studies and sales reports by experts. At the end of the day, numbers count.

After our beauty tour at the Kalaw Villas,  I booked myself a massage on the balcony. Nothing beats feeling like a marshmallow when on vacation. Namaste.

After ‘namaste’, it’s time to par-teh!!!

The day culminated with a celebration of limitless beauty and limitless possibilities.

Pool party set-up by The Events Architects (TEA). Congrats Ferdi Salvador and Czarina Ledesma for the fabulous set-ups! Clazz.

Not my last meal.

3rd day’s memories were about boys and the colors grey and beige… Hahaha! It’s the boys’ day! The Unilever’s Men’s Grooming Brands featured the gwapo guys! Filled with pogi tips and tricks, breakfast was definitely a meal not to be missed!

From left: Drew Copuyoc, Unilever Brand Manager for Clear; Clear Shampoo for Men brand ambassadors Phil Younghusband, Chris Tiu, James Younghusband; Jo Pua, Brand Manager for Men's Grooming

My last day of leisure was spent just marveling at the beauty of the Philippines.

Last group shot but hopefully not the last time.

Congrats team Unilever PC!!!

Kudos to Head of PR for Unilever Personal Care, Apples Aberin for a relaxing and insightful weekend! I’m honored to be part of the FIRST-ever Unilever PC Summit. Can’t wait for the next! Thanks Bridges PR, especially to Ms. Annie Ringor for a flawless and fun event! Kayo na!

Team Unilever PC: Andrew Copuyoc, Unilever Assistant Brand Manager for Clear; Jullian Gollayan,Brand Manager for Vaseline; Jonathan Pua, Brand Manager for Men's Grooming; Anna Mangilin, Marketing Director for Hair; Anne Remulla, Brand Manager for Rexona; Gina Lorenza, Vice President for Marketing of Personal Care; Mian Datu-David, Marketing Director for Skin Apples Aberin, Unilever Head of PR for Unilever Personal Care; Cesca Silvestre, Senior Brand Manager for Pond's; Nikki Abella, Unilever PR and Events Manager; Carlo Isla, Brand Manager for Dove; John Imperial, Brand Manager for CloseUp and Pepsodent

Time to go home.

So nice to come home to the Epperson’s. Always all smiles to see mom.

Meron akong sundo! TAMIS!!! My family makes me feel beautiful everyday. I love them!

I had a wonderful time at the beach bonding with friends while discovering and rediscovering Unilever PC products. This event really speaks of Unilever’s commitment to continuously reach out and listen to the people they serve to better understand their needs and wants. Yes na yes to limitless possibilities and beautiful experiences!

Shoppingero/shoppingera, get to know more about Unilever PC’s amazing products in Part 2 of my beauty adventure! Tune in!

Oh My Gwyneth!

Posted on by
Reply

First of all, thank you Xandra Ramos-Padilla for my copy of Gwyneth Paltrow’s book ‘It’s All Good’!

This book couldn’t have come at a better time as my husband Tom and I just got the results of our Food Intolerance Test (F.I.T.) and Gene-Testing from LifeScience (I will blog about this soon). Basically, knowing what food we’re intolerant (not allergic) to took out the guesswork in eating and feeling healthy.

In It's All Good, Paltrow and her coauthor Julia Turshen share recipes that are yummy, you'd never know they don't dairy or other ingredients that by definition make food tasty.

My whole family is on a mission to eat even healthier this year. We believe in preventive medicine and to be healthy, one must eat healthy food. We are slowly cutting out dairy and shifting to anything gluten-free. It’s not easy and we’re not sure if we want to totally eliminate gluten from our diet but we’re happy to try it.

We cook simple, healthy yet special meals everyday, three times a day so that we can enjoy pancakes and waffles on Sundays and the Lucky Me! Pancit Canton for merienda! Mmm…

I’m a Gwyneth fan because I can so relate to her cooking style and of course, her fashion sense. Browsing through her book is a joy.

Chambray, shorts and barefoot when cooking… So me! Aminin!

Tom and I grew up in a family that encouraged us kids to be in the kitchen and cook with our parents. It is one of the best things that has happened in our lives! Tom and I are doing the same with our kids. Aryanna is an ace at cooking and baking while our three-year old son Dylan helps us in washing the veggies and adding herbs when cooking. We supervise him but we also make cooking fun!

I’m being honest here, some of the ingredients in the cookbook are hard to find and some are not even available in the Philippines (like kale), but the photos of Gwyneth and her kids  make up for it.

The photos of Gwyneth's kid's cooking and helping out in the kitchen is authentic. It's awesome!

I’m going to try this salmon recipe of Gwynie! Looks delish!

One of my New Year’s resolution is to eat more fish. I’m loving this book’s fish recipes!

Shoppingero/shoppingera, grab a copy of ‘It’s All Good’ by Gwyneth Paltrow at National Book Store and Powerbooks branches!

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...