CELEBRATE IN STYLE WITH PARTY DECO

 

Unlike most adults, children actually count the days and nights until their next birthday. When asked, they would usually say their birthday is their second most favorite time of the year, next to Christmas.

 

Coming up with a successful birthday party entails a lot of preparation and attention to detail. As much as parents would lovingly sacrifice time to look into each detail and make sure everything goes well in their child's event, most couples sustain a two-income household which poses a bit of challenge when it comes to planning the big day. Thus, the high demand for event planners and stylists.

 

Making a business out of event styling can be a fulfilling and profitable venture for someone who enjoys the social scene, is organized in nature and has a flair for beautifying spaces. It doesn't even require a hefty amount for investment and capital. 

 

"Creativity, imagination and passion are your best assets in this industry," shares mompreneur Khimberly Ty Cruz, owner and lead stylist of Party Deco. "This kind of profession thrives on impression and reputation. You're only as good as your last work, so you have  to give your best in each project. You are measured according to your portfolio, network and how people recall your work as an artist and service provider."

Khimberly is the newest addition to the growing population of event stylists in Davao City. She points out how the rudiments of her job has turned her into a perfectionist and taught her the value of teamwork and humility.

 

"This is not something you can do alone. Just like parents who seek our services, we also need helping hands to execute the nitty-gritty details. You see, nothing is left unnoticed by guests. Be it the cake, ceiling work, centerpieces, giveaways, wall accents, lighting design, chairs or balloons, each of these makes a lasting impression that can either make or break your career. The main task of an event stylist is to put together all these elements and create a memorable experience through visuals, texture and colors."

 

 

Dream job

"I've always had that knack in putting together decorations special occasions," Khimberly gushes. "It was a hobby that simply grew in me, something I enjoyed doing but never really gave much thought in terms of career possibilities. It turned out, what I needed was a little push and encouragement from family and friends. I finally saw the business potential in this when I was organizing my child's 1st birthday party. The positive feedback from guests helped boost my confidence and courage to finally establish myself as a professional events stylist."

 

To this 32-year old working mom, opening her own production outfit called Party Deco is not only an investment for the future but also in personal development.

"Learning is a life-long process and I never stop researching on how I can improve my style. My think tank is practically like mood board that continues to expand with fresh ideas from online and printed resources. Each event is different and every client would want something original even if the theme is nothing new." 

While living a life in parties can be crucial and taxing at times, Khimberly is not complaining. She happily juggles work with mommy duties, making sure that she keeps the latter sacred and non-negotiable. "Time for the family is important. That's mainly the reason why I chose to put up a business that is close to  my heart. Work for me comes relatively light and breezy, which gives me more time to share with my husband and child."

Getting the party started

"I encourage clients to speak their mind even during the first meeting," explains Khimberly. "There's never a dull moment in brainstorming sessions. The event actually starts to take shape at that moment when you sit down with clients and sum up all their points and suggestions." 

 

"Making decisions is easier if you have a well thought out theme, as this instantly sets the tone for your party. A big chunk of my time is spent on design and production. If needed, I source out materials and decors abroad. Most of the time, everything is customized and produced locally. Clients love personalized printables from name tags, water bottles, popcorn boxes, etc. They want the party to look fun but not too overwhelming."

 

Khimberly humbly gives credit to her own roster of talents. "I have a fantastic team of dedicated production assistants and artists. I personally attend to each project and look into every detail. To keep the quality of work at its best, I try not to accept bookings for events happening on the same day. From planning, researching, conceptualization to execution, depending on the extent of work, I can work around with lead times from as short as 2 weeks to a month or more."

 

When asked about her plans for the future, Khimberly prefers to keep her feet on the ground and focus on training and development. "I am still relatively new in this industry. I have a lot more to prove and improve on. For now, I just want to live in the moment and enjoy each step of my journey."

For more details and inquiries about Party Deco, please log on to www.facebook.com/partydecoPH or call 0917-725-6076.

 

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Story published on my newspaper column, Metro Mom.
A1, Indulge, Edge Davao, Vol. 7 Issue no. 137, 24 September 2014.


 

NINOBASILIO: WEAVING MODERN FASHION INTO THE CLASSIC UTILITY BAG

Just about every woman carries a handbag. In a way, bags are key barometer of our times which shows the pivotal change in women's role in society. The rising number of working women factors in the evolution of this fashion accessory, propelling it to an industry on its own with the high demand for variety to cater to a host of occasions from day 'til night.  
 

To some, a bag is a survival kit, an investment, a status symbol, an expression of individualism or an accessory that complements any outfit or mood. It goes by different labels, designs and craftsmanship. But whether it's fashionable or functional, utilitarian or accessorial, practical or luxurious, a bag is very personal as it carries you through the day's mission in any destination.

 

Making bags stand out in this competitive industry is the main challenge for all designers. Creation involves constant improvisation, reinvention or deconstruction of traditional styles, study of trends and experimentation. When it comes to resources, materials and fabrics, it's recommended to shop for best prices without sacrificing quality and durability. 

While most follow the standard philosophy of form and function, 25-year old Davao-based designer Basil Yap Cabaral adds 2 more elements into the creative process resulting to a modernized take on native utility bags. 

Sustainability and Local Heritage
 

"The NinoBasilio brand takes pride and inspiration from the traditional Filipino bayong," explains Basil. We want to give a new twist to this iconic commodity, to make it look modern, sleek, trendy and versatile. The body is made of woven dried pandan leaves --- colored and polished ones which are abundant in Negros. The bag handle is shaped out of treated mahogany. As accent, we made use of man-made leather and we are now exploring other fabrics like maybe the T'nalak and other indigenous materials."

Woven dried leaves are usually type-casted as relating to tropical settings and daywear. Basil explains how he recreated the model for today's urbanites. "I wanted to design the bag in such a way that it can still be fashionable and adaptable to all kinds of events, whether indoor or outdoor, day or night."
 

 

"How did I take it to the level where fashion meets function? Aside from playing with different shapes and sizes, color is one of the key elements which make our designs adaptable to street and high fashion. Say, our multi-colored patchwork bag to accentuate that all-black attire. We also have a variety of subdued tones and vibrant plains which go well with any printed or structured ensemble."

Basil, who is no neophyte in the retail industry, values his exposure to culture and arts through his "regular" day job in one of the city's premier malls. As Visual Display Officer, he gets to experiment with colors and various materials, research on trends and explore art techniques. "It fuels my imagination. It's like the warm up exercise to the actual workout routine which is my other job as a bag designer. I discover new things and, in a way, I also get to do cross training in fashion merchandising because of the nature of the mall and retail business. I'm happy that I live and breathe in a world surrounded by creative minds."
 

Currently, Basil's bags are only on a per-order basis. "I had a chance to display my products in a mall event back in August and, since then, orders have started pouring in. It was a feat to have such overwhelming reception from locals and tourism players, given that it was my first venture and production only began in June. Imagine, what came as a cure to my mid-life crisis turned out to be the most rewarding and fulfilling investment I've made to date," gushes the young entrepreneur. "I have so many plans for this brand, see it go places and to make it grow past the 7-year itch. Eventually, if budget and resources permit, I'll work on putting up a store of my own. I want my bags to be readily available for anyone who wishes to buy on the spot, especially visitors from other regions and countries. My bags are not only unique in form and style, but they also showcase a part of our culture and heritage."

Follow NinoBasilio Bags on Facebook and Instagram for more product details. For orders, please contact 09173211652 or 09255211552. Some pieces will soon be available at Martish specialty shop located along J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City.

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Story published on my newspaper column, Metro Mom.
A1 and A4, Indulge, Edge Davao, Vol. 7 Issue no. 132, 17 September 2014.

 

CHOCOLATE UNWRAPPED: CONFECTIONS BY A DABAWENYA MOM

 

 

Over the years, chocolates have changed in form and taste --- from creamy and sweet little nuggets to carefully calibrated mix of different beans and artisanal creations from both imported and locally grown cacao.

  

Food and beverage is still a booming industry and along with it is the growing community of epicurious palates. Gourmet chocolates raised the bar in the chocolate industry, giving the well loved candy a sophistication that got everyone hooked at first bite.

 

While gourmet chocolates may seem synonymous to expensive and imported, Dabawenyos need not run off to the imported goods aisle anymore to get their chocolate fix. Homegrown brand Kai Artisan Chocolates offers decadent chocolates of different types and flavors, boasting of rich ingredients and quality standards.

Independent chocolatier Kai Caguiat, also a mother, spills the beans on her world of chocolates. This Dabawenya and proud mom of two is fast becoming a household name in the local scene because of her own variety of gourmet Belgian chocolates, confectionary masterpieces slathered in layers over the most delightful fillings. A former mall marketing manager and key accounts specialist for branded consumer goods, Kai found her true calling in growing a business of her own that's inspired by her love of family and chocolates. 

 

"I come from a family who loves chocolates and desserts," shares Kai. "My grandmother used to indulge us with sweets like Popsicles and colas. My mom is also a baker. As a child, I'd scoop out and lick the batter while watching her work. I inherited the skill and started baking while I was in college. Pretty soon, my taste buds and obsession for anything with chocolate triggered by curiosity in learning how to make them on my own. I used to crave for gourmet chocolates, which were unavailable in Davao at the time. I learned how to make them by reading books and various print materials. I even searched online for video tutorials and easy to do recipes. I’d also do my research whenever and wherever we traveled. I was so eager to know more and tried on new tastes and tips from bonafide chocolate makers. Hands on experience and experimentation were also my best teachers. I went through series of trials and errors and used kilos and kilos of Belgian and French chocolates until I got my techniques right."

  

Her first product, Pia Mallows, became a hit right away. With the advent of new technology and available resources, Kai was able to develop her own line of pralines and truffles under a brand of her namesake --- Kai Artisan Chocolates.

 

"Surprisingly, there are a lot of people who love our liquor infused chocolates. Those are among our best sellers next to the Cacao Nibs Truffles. I used to have this notion that Filipinos, in general, prefer milk over dark chocolate. So, it really came as a surprise for me that our number one bestseller is the Cacao Nibs. We also have Durian Filled Chocolate on the menu, plus Hazelnut Truffle and Salted Caramel and Ube flavored pralines. Some flavors are customized according to what the client prefers, particularly for bulk orders for big events." 

 

At home, Kai makes extra effort to balance family life with business. "I am a breastfeeding mom, which is why I find working from home so convenient. Then again, family has always been my core and I even gave up an opportunity to work in Manila just so I can stay with my family in Davao. I took on the responsibility of helping out with the administrative side of my husband's print business. Now that I have my own chocolate brand, family remains top priority. My day starts and ends with family time. I have a 6 hour window in between which I spend on anything work related." 

  

Aside from skill and technique, Kai says her new career helped build her character and kept her aligned with her goals in life. "This chocolate business taught me patience and humility. Chocolates entail a lot of manual labor and creativity. You really just have to love the process and enjoy every minute of it. There are no shortcuts. Same principles go in raising a family --- you just have to take it by the day."

 

Follow Pia Mallows Chocolate Company on Facebook and @kaiartisanchocolates on Instagram. You may send in your orders through Viber at 09178860167. Discounts are offered to those who will place orders for Christmas goodies by October. Delivery is scheduled every Wednesday. Buyers may also pick up their orders at Kai's shop and office along Cabuguio, Davao City.
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Story published on my newspaper column, Metro Mom.

A1, Indulge, Edge Davao, Vol. 7 Issue no. 127, 10 September 2014.

MYOH 2014 FEATURES PHILIPPINE EAGLE PIN BY DABAWENYO ARTIST MACKY PAMINTUAN

Spring into eternal summer with comfy flip flops and watch out for this year’s Make Your Own Havaianas caravan!

 

Aside from ice cream, shorts, tank tops and plenty of vitamin D, Havaianas is also one of the day to day basics in a tropical setting like ours. Each pair of this slip-on thongs comes in a rainbow of shades to match any outfit theme or outdoor activity, plus a shock-absorbing midsole and a durable rubber outsole for a steady step all throughout your journey. Whether you're building sand castles in the beach or sashaying through the mall, Havaianas will keep you light on your feet all season long.

 

This well-loved brand of trendy slip-on’s paints the town once again as it opens its annual interactive event for a special limited run this month of September.

 

 

Make Your Own Havaianas brings in the element of fun as it sparks up creativity in every individual. This event has also become a favorite among locals, who enjoy living the spirit of fashion, self-expression and imagination. There’s the thrill of creating your own pair, customized with your choice of colorful sole and straps inspired by street art, added with sundry quirky pins.

 

This year’s highlight is the commemorative pair featuring colorful Bonfirms --- Brazilian wish ribbons that are worn for good luck. The print symbolizes wishes for joy, amusement, excitement, euphoria and bliss to anyone who wears the limited edition pair.

 

Havaianas makes MYOH more special for Davaoeños this year with its limited edition Davao pin, created by the world-renowed illustrator, Macky Pamintuan.

 

“This partnership with Macky is a perfect fit,” says Marga Nograles, Managing Partner of Martish Marketing Company, exclusive sub-distributor for Southern and Eastern Mindanao. “Not only was he born and raised in Davao, he also lives the same Havaianas spirit of fun through his happy and colorful illustrations.”

Macky Pamintuan

True enough, Macky was able to come up with a design that is a fitting representation of Davao. The MYOH Philippine Eagle pin is reflective of the city’s rich and colorful ecosystem, and stands for the Filipinos’ indomitable spirit.

 

150 pieces of limited edition Davao pin will be available when the MYOH kicks off at the Gaisanao Mall of Davao on September 5 to 7, from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm. Another 150 pieces will be available at the MYOH caravan in Abreeza Mall from September 19 to 21, open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

 

Havaianas is regularly available in All Flip Flops stores in SM City Davao and Abreeza Mall, Sunlab in Gaisano Mall and Martish specialty shop along JP Laurel Avenue.

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Story published on my newspaper column, Metro Mom.
A1, Indulge, Edge Davao, Vol. 7 Issue no. 122, 03 September 2014.