I got this scent during Mother's Day after doing a lot of research on it and watching enough reviews about it from perfume afficionados I follow. La Vie Est Belle is a fragrance that has captured the hearts of many since its launch. It is definitely one of the most mentioned fragrances online. Created by the renowned French perfume house Lancôme, this scent embodies elegance and femininity, making it a popular choice for women. At first spritz, La Vie Est Belle reveals a vibrant burst of juicy blackcurrant and pear, followed by a heart of delicate florals, including iris and orange blossom. This combination creates a fresh and uplifting introduction that tantalizes the senses. As the fragrance develops, the base notes of warm vanilla, praline, and patchouli emerge, adding a rich and creamy depth that lingers beautifully on the skin. It is a rich vanilla floral that I like and dries down sweet and powdery.

The bottle design itself is a work of art—its sleek, modern silhouette is complemented by a luxurious ribbon. It reminds me of a classy lady with an elegant scarf on her neck. I love this touch of whimsy in the packaging.

La Vie Est Belle is said to be versatile enough for both day and night wear, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're heading to the office, out for dinner, or enjoying a casual day with friends, this fragrance has a way of enhancing your presence without overwhelming those around you. Personally, I prefer to use it at night and usually for special occasions because while I love its scent, I find that the Philippine weather does not work well with its somewhat heady fragrance. It smells great but it projects very strongly and sometimes it triggers headaches and sneezing fits with me. I use it quite sparingly and I find that the best way to apply it is to spray it by a fan and let it mist you all over ever so gently or a single pump to the wrist. I like applying my perfumes with a light touch. Subtle and intriguing without being obnoxious. 

Overall, La Vie Est Belle is more than just a scent; it's an expression of positivity and grace. It's a fragrance that encourages you to celebrate life and all its beautiful moments. If you're in search of a signature scent that conveys elegance and warmth, La Vie Est Belle is definitely worth considering. When I got it, I wanted a scent that evoked all the impressions I wanted to make. A signature scent that stands out but is universally pleasant and unique enough for me to know I'm the only one wearing it at the party.

Is La Vie Est Belle for You?

Determining whether La Vie Est Belle is worth its price depends on several factors, including personal preferences, budget, and the value one places on fragrance. Here are some considerations:

Quality of Ingredients: La Vie Est Belle is known for its high-quality ingredients and craftsmanship. The blend of fruity top notes, floral heart, and rich base notes creates a well-rounded and sophisticated scent. Many users find that the quality justifies the price. Frankly, it is one of those scents that just smell expensive, albeit more mature-- not matronly... more like womanly, soft but confident. 

Longevity and Sillage: One of the standout features of La Vie Est Belle is its longevity. The fragrance tends to last several hours on the skin, and its sillage (the trail it leaves) is noticeable without being overwhelming. This means you may not need to reapply frequently, adding to its value. I personally spray it on just once and the scent stays on your skin til the next day and even leaves a whisper of it on your pillow.

Versatility: The scent is versatile enough for various occasions, making it a good investment for someone looking for a multifunctional fragrance. Whether for work, casual outings, or special events, La Vie Est Belle can easily fit into different settings. You can actually just use this for any occasion but I prefer light, clean, citrusy, and fresh scents during the day. This just is too heavy for me at night.

Brand Reputation: Lancôme is a well-respected brand in the fragrance industry, known for its luxurious products. Investing in a fragrance from a reputable brand can offer a sense of confidence in the quality and performance of the product.

Personal Connection: Fragrance is highly subjective, and personal connections to a scent can greatly influence its perceived value. If La Vie Est Belle resonates with you emotionally or evokes cherished memories, it may be worth the investment, regardless of the price tag. I associate scents like this to my mom and grandma which are beautiful, classical, and soft. 

In conclusion, if you appreciate the scent, the quality, and the brand, and if it fits within your budget, La Vie Est Belle can be considered worth its price. However, it’s essential to try it out for yourself on your skin to see how it works with your body chemistry. I do not recommend blind buying this fragrance because along with its hefty price tag, it isn't a scent that fits everyone's vibe and if you aren't careful with it, it can be cloying and migraine-inducing. I love this scent but I know it's not for everyone and it can seem like a grandma scent for some. It is very feminine for me and I love the gourmand scent. Again, try it on your skin before buying. 

Thanks for dropping by and may the glam be with you always!

I just attended BDO's Kapihan at Park Inn and I never knew all these new services were available now for clients interested in banking with BDO. From all the innovations that make bank transactions easier and help you skip the lines, online services, e-wallets, and Cash Agad services, there's a BDO service for just about anybody looking to manage their finances better.

Kapiahn Forum Panelists: Ms. Ana Ong (VP and Area Head of Davao), Ms. Grace Caguioa (First VP and Head of Cash Management Services (CMS)- SME Segment), Mr. Roy Villareal (First VP and Head of Digital Banking), and Mr. Jim Nasol (Senior VP and Head of Agency Banking)

I'm a working mom and time, as of late, has become the most expensive commodity for me. I have to constantly balance work with valuable moments for my children. This simply means I need to find the most efficient way to complete my tasks to be able to give that to my little ones. So you can just imagine how excited I got when I learned about the services BDO had to offer that would help me get my banking tasks done faster and more efficiently.

Universal Teller Machine

This machine takes away the need to queue for bank transactions as it covers check deposits, updating passbooks, cardless transactions using QR and biometrics, cash deposits and withdrawals, paying bills and more. 

Honestly, having to line up to get all my banking business done is one of the reasons I avoid going to banks. I hate the idle time I have to sit there and wait. The Universal Teller Machine certainly makes this so much easier for people on the go like me.

Service Assist Machine

I really appreciate not having to do manual forms in banks. Better for our carbon footprint and its less hassle for the customers. With SAM, you simply enter your transactions digitally without needing to write anything down, and you just sit and wait to be called with the teller knowing what service you need when you get there.

Online Branch Booking and Online Account Opening

Want a hassle-free visit to the bank? You can schedule your appointments online now by visiting www.bdo.com.ph/book-your-visit. Just enter your transaction details, save the QR and visit the branch of your choice.

Interested in opening an account with BDO? You don't even need to go the the bank. You can do away with the manual paper forms and choose the deposit product that's right for you. You can even apply for loans and credit cards now.

BDO pay

This payment app lets users pay directly with their BDO Bank account or credit card without needing to cash in. You can Scan to Pay, Send Money, Pay Bills, Request Money, Split Bill, Have access to BDO Rewards and Bills, when you need cash---so QR withdraw. Frankly, I do most of my work and shopping with my phone and I always have it with me wherever I go. This service actually makes it so much easier for me to shop or pay for bills.

Busy moms will certainly appreciate the move to going digital. It's great having access to all the important banking transactions through an app that packs a punch.

Junior Savers

Another delightful thing to add which I asked about during the Kapihan is the Junior Savers for my kids. Did you know you can open an account for your chikitings from ages 0-12 and with the minimum initial deposit just being 100 Pesos? As your kid's signatory, you can access your child's account with your online banking account and put in your contributions for their savings as well as the cash gifts they get for birthdays and Christmas. After 12, it becomes a regular account that belongs to your child but you can keep sending money to them and continue to teach them about financial literacy and the importance of saving money.

Thanks for dropping by and I hope you found this information useful for precious mommy time management and starting financial literacy with kids early. Save time with your banking errands and get more time with family. BDO truly finds ways for busy moms like me.

Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue Intense packaging and appearance  pretty much looks the same as the old Light Blue but with a velvety box and a darker shade of blue.

I love scents that are fresh and clean during the day and especially when it’s warm and sunny. I grew up wearing Spanish colognes like Nenuco so I suppose that plays into why I like D&G Light Blue Intense. I love smelling like I just stepped out of the shower, no care in the world and I don’t have to worry about making people nauseous when they smell my cologne.

It’s not punchy or the least bit obnoxious as most perfumes. It’s very subtle and it’s the type of smell that reminds you of clean laundry, fresh fruits and crisp apples. Something about it is just so cheery and sunny. It’s the type of scent that you get a faint whiff of and you kinda want to smell it some more. 

Dolce & Gabbana's Light Blue Intense is a captivating fragrance that embodies the essence of a sun-soaked summer day. This scent is a deeper and more concentrated version of the original Light, like a sound more audible than the faint whisper of the first one. 

From the first spritz, the fragrance opens with a burst of fresh lemon and crisp apple, providing an invigorating and fruity introduction that instantly uplifts the spirit. This citrusy top note is complemented by a heart of jasmine and bamboo, which adds a floral and slightly green character, enhancing the perfume’s refreshing quality.

As the scent develops, the base notes of cedarwood and amber emerge, offering a warm and sensuous finish that lingers on the skin. The combination of these elements creates a well-balanced fragrance that is both lively and sophisticated, making it suitable for various occasions—from a casual day out to a romantic evening.

The longevity of Light Blue Intense is impressive, with the scent lasting several hours without losing its vibrancy. It lasts about 6-8 hours on me. The sillage is moderate, leaving a pleasant trail that is noticeable but not overwhelming. It doesn’t make me feel dizzy or give me headaches.

Overall, Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Intense is a must-try for those who appreciate fresh, fruity fragrances with a touch of elegance. Its ability to evoke the feeling of summer all year round makes it a timeless addition to any perfume collection. Whether you're lounging by the beach or heading out for a night on the town, this fragrance is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.

Listen to it HERE.

December 12, 2024—Davao City, Philippines—The indie rock ensemble electrOgourmet, hailing from Davao, has officially launched their highly anticipated full-length album, Satellite. Following the release of four singles and one earlier track, the complete album is now available for streaming across multiple platforms.

Satellite is a compilation that reflects electrOgourmet’s musical journey from its inception to the present day. Initially a duo project formed in 2006, guitarist Kre enlisted vocalist NeP-C to add melodies and lyrics to his instrumental demos. The two, residing in the same city, would meet on weekends to exchange writable compact discs. Most of the songs on the album were crafted during the band's active period in the independent music scene, where they performed alongside various groups. They initially went by the name Planeta from 2009 to 2013, later rebranding as Electric Gourmet from 2017 to 2018. In 2021, amidst the pandemic, they adopted the name electrOgourmet and recorded Satellite from home. The album was produced by Kre and subsequently mixed and mastered by Jerome Velasco, known for his work with Teeth and Pupil.

Musically, electrOgourmet draws inspiration from the sounds of the 90s and early 2000s, incorporating elements of bubblegum pop, indie, alternative, riot grrrl, indie OPM, and Britpop, which are intricately woven into each song.

The track "OFFSET" captures an angst-laden essence reminiscent of the "angry girl" music that Kat Stratford from 10 Things I Hate About You would appreciate, while also incorporating classic rock influences akin to bands like Kansas and The Beatles. Despite its punk-inspired sound, the song features a solid melodic structure that distinguishes it from typical pop-punk and riot grrrl arrangements.

"Fleeing Prickles" showcases clever wordplay that veils disdain for persistent suitors. This track gained popularity on the now-defunct social media platform MySpace, with listeners noting its distinctly European sound, drawing comparisons to the vocal stylings of Damon Albarn from Blur and Gorillaz. The arrangement reflects influences from both OPM and indie genres.

"You Dare" is an experimental piece born from NeP-C’s newfound synthesizer, echoing her early 2000s obsession with bands like MGMT and Tame Impala. Composed in the C-major scale, the song contrasts its feminist and grotesque lyrics, creating a blend of dark and light atmospheres.

The song "sakuretu" embodies the electronic vibe of electrOgourmet. While it currently resides within the alternative rock genre, listeners can detect subtle influences from bands such as Sneaker Pimps and Massive Attack. This track is one of two Bisaya songs featured on the album.

"Satellite," one of the band’s more recent compositions, explores the mature theme of strained relationships teetering on the edge of collapse. This track highlights electrOgourmet's admiration for alternative and pop icons like Lisa Loeb, Michelle Branch, and The Sundays.

The song "FSTED" (From Seascapes to El Dorado) begins with the oxymoron "Your lovely instability" and serves as the ideal soundtrack for an anti-romantic comedy set in a cheerful locale, albeit with conflicting "lovers." Its bitter-sweet lyrics, combined with an upbeat sound, encapsulate the emotional rollercoaster of dating.

"DAKS," an acoustic track penned in 2005 during NeP-C’s high school years, was recorded spontaneously and without rehearsal. Although NeP-C considers it an embarrassment, in this age of AI, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of authenticity in music creation and production.

Another track suitable for a rom-com is "Perfect Goodnight," written by Kre and inspired by one of his intriguing yet fleeting affairs. With its enchanting lyrics and melodic guitar riffs, the song is both progressive and charming, evolving through various forms while maintaining a romantic and introspective essence.

"Wandering in Downtown" is a slow electronic piece influenced by 90s luminaries like Mono, Zero 7, and Portishead. The poetic lyrics evoke a trance-like state, reflecting the complexities and challenges of life.

As a culmination of their 19-year journey as a band, Satellite showcases the diverse influences, streams of consciousness, and growth of its members—not only as musicians but as individuals navigating their personal and professional lives.

Tracklist for Satellite:

1. OFFSET

2. Fleeing Prickles

3. You Dare

4. DAKS (Lo-Fi)

5. sakuretu

6. Satellite

7. FSTED

8. DAKS

9. Perfect Goodnight

10. Wandering in Downtown

11. Satellite (Downbeat Remix)

Satellite is currently available for streaming on all platforms. Follow electrOgourmet to stay updated on new releases, live performances, and engaging content.

Listen to Satellite Here:

 https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/electrogourmet/satellite

Stay Connected with electrOgourmet: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Spotify | Twitter | Bandcamp  

Contact Information:  

NeP-C Ledesma  

+639760281491 | electrogourmetph@gmail.com | nepcledesma@gmail.com

I had the remarkable privilege of interviewing Ms. Jaqueline Ng, Co-founder of Big Bad Wolf, along with Carol Chuaying, the Philippine managing partner, as part of a session with the Davao Bloggers Society. Although I was already familiar with some of their responses to our questions, I was nonetheless moved by the inspiring origin story of BBW and the significant impact the founders have made in fostering a growing readership among the public.

HOW IT BEGAN

Big Bad Wolf Books is a mission- driven Journey to Enhance English Literacy and Readership through Global Access to Affordable Books. This was Founded in 2006 as a modest 500-square-foot bookstore in Malaysia, Big Bad Wolf Books has transformed into a significant player in the global book-selling arena. Its core mission is straightforward yet impactful: to foster english literacy by ensuring that books are both accessible and affordable for all.

The visionaries behind this initiative, Malaysian entrepreneurs Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng, set out with the goal of reshaping reading habits in Malaysia. Over the years, the company has grown into the largest book sale worldwide, reaching millions of readers across various nations and establishing a distinctive model that promotes affordable literacy.

In 2009, Big Bad Wolf Books launched its inaugural large-scale event, the “Big Bad Wolf Book Sale,” designed to directly connect books with readers. Recognizing that many individuals do not frequently visit conventional bookstores, the founders aimed to create an engaging and budget-friendly book-buying atmosphere that would draw in families and friends. These sales have introduced many non-readers to literature for the first time, fostering a newfound appreciation for reading. As these events expanded, they began to feature millions of books, solidifying the company’s reputation as the “World’s Biggest Book Sale” for high-quality, affordable literature.

The influence of Big Bad Wolf Books has been significant. Co-founder Jacqueline Ng notes, “In 2015, we began to see young adult books selling out faster than ever before. This was a pivotal moment for us, as we realized that the children who attended our early sales had matured into teenagers selecting their own books.” This natural growth in young adult readership has strengthened Big Bad Wolf's dedication to nurturing a lifelong passion for reading.

International expansion commenced in 2016, with the initiative reaching Indonesia and Thailand, and later the Philippines in 2018. This global outreach introduced logistical hurdles such as transporting millions of books, dealing with customs regulations, and setting up warehouses in partner countries. Ng remarked, “We had to devise innovative solutions to every logistical challenge we encountered,” highlighting the importance of partnerships with local logistics providers, particularly in the Philippines, to facilitate book deliveries while maintaining low prices.

Despite the increasing popularity of e-books and digital platforms, Big Bad Wolf Books remains steadfast in its mission. Ng emphasizes, “Physical books, especially for children, hold immense value. The joy of physically holding a book, selecting one from the shelf, and taking it home is an experience that digital media cannot replicate.” The company has noticed that parents who attend Big Bad Wolf Book Sales with their children appreciate the event's diverse offerings and affordability, allowing them to purchase multiple books without financial strain.

Fueled by a clear mission and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of books, Big Bad Wolf Books continues to innovate and expand, promoting literacy and accessibility through each book sale.

As global impacts go, my children and I will forever be grateful for Big Bad Wolf’s push to make quality books available for everyone.

BIG BAD WOLF TODAY 

This year, Big Bad Wolf Davao is committed to attracting both passionate readers and those who may not view themselves as regular readers. The event aims to ignite curiosity and foster a love for literature in all attendees, creating an inclusive celebration of reading. With substantial discounts and a diverse selection of genres, Big Bad Wolf aspires to make reading both accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The Big Bad Wolf Davao 2024 event will take place from November 22 to December 1 at The Tent, Azuela Cove, Davao City. It will be open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight, extending to 2:00 AM on weekends. 

Metrobank cardholders can take advantage of a special 3-month 0% installment promotion on purchases of P3,000 or more, along with other offers to ease their holiday shopping. For updates on exclusive promotions and discounts, follow Big Bad Wolf Books on social media!

In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Big Bad Wolf is also dedicated to spreading the joy of reading to underprivileged communities. Guests are encouraged to donate books to enhance children’s access to quality literature, creating a lasting impact during the holiday season.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to discover holiday treasures, engage in exciting activities, and make a difference. Stay connected with Big Bad Wolf Books on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their website for the latest information on book sale events and offers.