Finding joy in the little things
“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.” —Ernest Hemingway
Embracing the beauty of becoming, I have been in a constant moving journey of enlightenment. Just when I figured where my life is headed, I am once again in a place of uncertainty. Without clarity and communication, there is no respect and trust. Without these key aspects, there is no reason to continue any relationship.
Building trust—after cycles of betrayal, discomfort, and misjudgment—is a huge part of breaking free and finding a better life. Trust grows with honesty, consistency, and forgiveness. If we survive several rounds of disappointment, we can certainly evolve into a more refined version of ourselves with courage and grace.
After experiencing this setback, I am refocused on things that give me joy like supporting local products and shopping. I am delighted to support the upcoming ArteFino Fair, which showcased the fashion collection of Jor-el Espina. His 30-piece collection called Heirloom is inspired and guided by the Grand Dame of Philippine Fashion, Patis Tesoro. The fashion show was held at the lobby of Makati Shangri-La Hotel.
The collection, which will be available only at the ArteFino Fair (July 31–August 3, The Fifth at Rockwell), is the result of a creative fusion between two Filipino designers. The process and magic behind Heriloom saw Jor-El capture the multicolored, richly layered universe of an icon, pioneer, and conservationist of craft and heritage. He infused elements of this world onto contemporary garments that suit the modern way of Filipino living. The collection also captures the generosity of Patis Tesoro as she imparted her techniques and creative wisdom as each piece was brought to life.
ArteFino founders Mita Rufino, Cedie Vargas, Maritess Pineda, Suzy Quiros, and Mel Francisco are excited to share the story behind ArteFino Fair 2025, which celebrates Champions of Change.
More than a trade fair, ArteFino has become a cultural movement rooted in purpose and community. This year, the spotlight shines on the HeArteFino—the heart and soul of the platform—and the growing ecosystem of artisans, advocates, and creatives who are preserving heritage while pushing Filipino craft forward.
From thoughtful collaborations and design innovations to immersive experiences like the inaugural ArteFino Lounge at Balmori Chef’s Table, this year’s fair continues to reflect a lifestyle that’s rooted, evolving, and deeply Filipino.
Another thing that sparks joy for me is my active lifestyle. From golf to biking to running to Zumba to yoga, I am just so blessed to be so fit and energized at my age. Rudy Project has been in my fitness journey for many years.
Last week, Rudy Project worldwide celebrated its 40th anniversary in partnership and hosted by Tatler Philippines. It was a night where sports and style came alive!
Talk about athleisure and sporty chic! Simone Barbazza, Marketing Director of Rudy Project Italy and son of founder Rudy Barbazza, flew in especially for the occasion. He gave a short speech about how Rudy Project products are now going the sustainable route and he presented the new commemorative “Performance” eyewear made of titanium and produced via 3D printer.
Rudy Project has been in the Philippine market for the past 22 years thanks to CEO and President Gabriele Boschi and the event was attended by athletes, celebrities, and figures who were part of the Rudy Project family since the day it started . Team Pangilinan attended by the whole brood—Anthony, Maricel, Donny, Ella, Hannah, Benjie and Solana, Team Valdes Tessa (now Team Prieto) and Dennis Valdes, marathoner Tim Yap, Rocco Nacino and Melissa Gohing, OCR National Champion Tess Nocyao, Manila Padel Club founders Alenna Dawn and Fred Lönnqvist, to name a few.
The highlight of the night was an amazing video produced by Rudy Project Philippines showcasing the wonderful stories of athletes and celebrities who have been part of the Rudy Project family over the years.
From my fitness world, we head to my beauty world. I recently attended the launch of Teviant Star Balm Mini. It is a compact take of its cult-favorite multipurpose glow balm. Designed for the modern muses on the move, it delivers an intense luminosity in a sleek, travel-friendly size. With its powerful blend of skincare, fragrances, and radiant finish, this mini must-have simplifies beauty in one chic balm that slips effortlessly into your pocket.
Teviant founder Albert Kurniawan launched his latest product at Cork in BGC, which was also his birthday celebration. The beauty bash was attended by several makeup artists, celebrities and beauty influencers who were so excited to sample the glow booster.
Star Balm Mini is infused with skin-loving ingredients to hydrate, soothe, and enhance your skin’s glow. As an added indulgence, it also acts as a solid perfume enriched with a subtle yet captivating scent that complements its luminous finish. With every swipe, it leaves behind a luxurious fragrance that lingers on your skin, making it the perfect mini essential for touch-ups throughout the day. This balm enhances not just your glow, but your overall presence, offering a sensorial experience that’s both functional and luxurious.
Apart from the Star Balm, Teviant also launched Ultimate Skin Master Silk Touch Perfecting Powder. To celebrate its debut, the mini collection includes three stunning new limited edition shades, available exclusively in this size, that deliver an ethereal glow both in real life and on camera. The shades are available starting today at all Teviant counters nationwide and at their online sales channels (Lazada, Shopee, TikTok).
In this turbulent week of rollercoaster emotions, I realized what a bit of lipstick, beauty balm, and perfecting powder can do! I am happy to discover the latest collection of Teviant to cheer me up for the rest of my life!
