BLUEWATER DAY SPA LAUNCHES ITS SEARCH FOR ITS FIRST-EVER BLUEWATER BABY IMAGE MODELS

 BlueWater Day Spa had been one of the pioneers in the country to offer a baby massage or infant massage treatments because they had always believed in its many benefits. And as a way of further promoting this treatment and in thanking loyal patrons who have availed of the said treatment for their babies, BlueWater Day Spa recently launched their first-ever search for BlueWater Baby Image Models!

Ms. Rikka Dylim, host for the said launch.

Bluewater Day Spa officials with Ms. Mary Simisim, owner and image endorsers Anthony and David Semerad with Fabio Ide and Ms. Rikka Dylim.

So Mommies, doll up your cute little ones and join this modeling search. BlueWater Day Spa is in search for cute babies for its signature Baby Massage. The contest will run from June 6 to August 6, 2013 and is open to all babies and toddlers ages 6 months up to 2 years old (two winners: boy and girl) and 2 years old to 4 years old (two winners: boy and girl).

Awesome prizes is up for grabs:

·         One (1) Birthday Kiddie Spa Party Package for a maximum of 28 persons at BWDS-Ortigas Spa Theatre worth P20, 000 (Terms and Conditions apply)

·         Complimentary Ten (10) baby Massage Treatments valid for one year worth P35, 000.

·         To be featured in a BWDS Ad Campaign for Baby Massage (online, print, in-store ad collaterals) with photo shoot.

Model Fabio Ide welcomes guests.

Basketball heartthrob twins Anthony and David Semerad.

If you think your babies have what it takes to become a model, avail of this chance and who knows, your little one might just be the One that BlueWater Day Spa had just been looking for. For full mechanics of the contests, please check out this link- https://www.facebook.com/bwdspa.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. 

BIOESSENCE URBAN ESCAPE TREATMENTS: REVAMP AND RELAX IN STYLE

It is important to spend a time meant entirely for you. Next to vacations and lounging around mastering the art of doing nothing, what probably spells a better “me-time” than taking long luxurious laps of relaxation and beauty makeovers. Mommies, take time off slaving over work and reward yourself with a royal treatment. Bioessence prides itself in offering indulgent services that are sure to please the princess or the queen in you. When it comes to indulging yourself, Bioessence is a haven of pleasure with its wide selection of spa treatments and wellness services. So seize your me-time and get yourself some well deserved pampering and primping at Bioessence and spend an afternoon or an entire day of infinite bliss and self-indulgence spent wisely. Go ahead and spoil yourself from head to toes with a treatment of your choice. 

 Bioessencerecently launched their Urban Escape treatments at their West Avenue branch and introduced their latest brand ambassador model/blogger Iya Consengco. During the said launch, Ms. Consengco gave a short talk on how to prevent stress while Bioessence’s Training Manager, Ms. Charisse Sampang, further explained how they come about with the Urban Escape treatments as well as its benefits.

Face it: the harsh weather, layers of makeup, stress and sleepless nights are getting under your skin (and are showing on your eye bags too!) Don’t fret though, there’s still hope.  Bioessence’s new Urban Escape Treatments are here to help. After one session, see and feel your face clean and radiant.  Bid adieu to every skin flaw imaginable with these treatments and feel refreshed without necessarily escaping the city.

For the Urban Escape Treatments, clients have two options: A Luxurious facial—It is a facial inspired by the pure essence of life to relax, purify, invigorate and restore the natural balance of your skin. This facial combines pampering and therapeutic techniques with specialized, proven products to restore the skin’s normal moisture level while revealing a more vibrant complexion.

 Then of course, there’s the Pampering massage. The leaflet says “Relax in a cocoon of warm, rich oils that lavish your skin with naturally health-enhancing nutrients, in a luxurious 60 minute body massage. A truly line indulgence as only natural extracts are being used blended with pure essence to ignite your body’s self cleansing and healing mechanisms. This helps flush out impurities and improve blood circulation.

I had tried Bioessence’s Urban Escape Facial treatment and I’d have to say that it’s the best facial I’ve ever had! I bet you guys are curious what makes it different from the other facials. It uses a unique blend of pampering and rejuvenating. The treatment starts with facial cleansing milk, followed by some facial scrub, I also had a diamond peel treatment included and pricking followed by a relaxing and invigorating peppermint mask. In between, I received a soothing massage on face, neck and décolleté (chest massage) to break some nodules and manage the lactic acids (lamig) on the arms. Using precise hand movements on my skin, the response creates an increase in my body’s own transport mechanism which causes lymphatic fluid drainage. The therapist used her hands to knead, rub and gently squeeze the muscles on my upper back, arms, shoulders, neck, scalp and face. Oh, and my lips were also dabbed with a special lip balm to make sure that even my lips were properly moisturized and my hands were wrapped to further seal the moisturizing oil or lotion as well. Everything induces a feeling of well-being and calm and are believed to help re-balance the body, sharpen the mind and improve concentration.

 Next time I visit Bioessence, I’d like to try the Urban Escape Treatment pampering massage. My friends say I’ve got to try it. It uses basalt stones and helps relax tight muscles. They say the experience is far different from my usual classic European (Swedish) massage. Well, I look forward to having such treatments soon. In the meantime, allow me to relish my baby-soft skin from the Bioessence Urban Escape Luxurious Facial I’ve just had.

For more info on Bioessence or any of its treatments, call or text 0918-8-BEAUTY (232889) or call (02) 376.7106 

Follow Bioessence on Twitter @BioessencePH and like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BioessenceCorporatePage.

Bioessence West Avenue Branch is located at #68 Carbal Bldg. West Avenue, Q.C.

Bioessence has branches at SM Megamall, Greenhills Shoppesville, Connecticut Greenhills, LPL Condominium Makati, Binondo, SM Fairview, Sta. Lucia Cainta, SM Bacoor, SM Southmall, SM Pampanga, SM Baguio, among many others.

Special thanks to Ms. Anj, Ms. Cha Sampang and all the staff at Bioessence West Avenue branch.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are 100% my own. 

CHILDREN’S HOUR TREATS KIDS TO THE MIND MUSEUM WITH THE STARS OF GMA 7’S ANNA KARENINA

It was indeed a red-letter day for the kid beneficiaries of Children’s Hour as they were treated to a fun-filled day as they toured the Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.  And not only that, they even had special guests that day with none other than the stars of GMA 7’s latest teledrama Anna KareNina, young stars Barbie Forteza, Krystal Reyes and Joyce Ching. The three young ladies gave words of encouragement to the kids, inspiring them and telling them not to lose hope and to continue to have faith in God. 

 There were also kids who showcased such amazing talents. A blind young boy had rendered the crowd a song entitled, “Ako ay Ikaw Rin” which left almost the entire crowd teary-eyed because the song says that blindness should never be a hindrance in achieving success. There were young girls who made a duet of a religious song and a boy who’s apparently deaf but danced to hip hop music.

 The bloggers also enjoyed the said event. Although it was a bit sad that we did not had much time to interact with the kids from Children’s Hour. But nevertheless, it was a fulfilling event. I was able to partake in an exciting activity for the less fortunate brothers and sisters. I may not have made much or helped more in as much I want to, some may probably do not remember who I am, but knowing fully well that these kids went home with smiles on their faces was good enough for me. Thank God for organizations such as the Children’s Hour who never gets tired of helping these kids out.

If you have spare to spend, I strongly suggest you give to Children’s Hour. So that there will be more kids to be happy and more kids will benefit and learn. For more info and to find out how you can help, log on to www.childrenshour.org.ph.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are 100% my own. 

ANNAKARENINA REMAKE BEGINS ON JUNE 3 AT GMA 7

AnnaKareNina stars Krystal Reyes, Barbie Forteza and Joyce Ching

Beginning June 3, GMA 7 recreates another well-loved classic teledrama via the remake of RJ Nueva’s Anna KareNina. The original series ran for about six years in the 90’s and had a really strong following, which eventually paved the way for the rise to stardom of former teen sensations Antoinette Taus, Sunshine Dizon and Kim delos Santos.  

In the latest incarnation of the said drama series, GMA 7’s homegrown talents Barbie Forteza, Joyce Ching and Krystal Reyes breathes a new life into the roles popularized by Antoinette, Sunshine and Kim. 

Barbie explains her role while Joyce Ching smiles.

 Barbie Forteza showed her acting ability when she reprised the role of the young Jodi in the Filipino adaptation of the Korean tearjerker Stairway to Heaven. She has also topbilled other Kapuso programs such as First Love, Tween Hearts, Pilyang Kerubin, Nita Negrita, Ikaw Lang ang Mamahalin, Luna Blanca Book 2 and Paroa: Ang Kwento ni Mariposa.

Joyce Ching was able to make her mark in showbusiness when she portrayed the role of the young Shirley in Endless Love. She recently received accolades for a notable performance in Pakawalang Anghel: The Michelle Reyes Story in an episode of GMA 7’s Magpakailanman.

 Krystal Reyes, on the other hand, gained respect and attention from the public from her sterling performance in Bakekang. This young thespian has continued to shine in her own way in the drama genre and has made her own starring roles via Princess Charming and the TV remake of Mga Mata ni Anghelita. She had also excelled in hosting the now defunct award-winning children’s art show Art Angel.

The bloggers had lunch with the stars.

The author of Purple Plum Fairy in pink with Krystal Reyes.

During the bloggers’ lunch with the three young ladies, they had revealed how excited they all are for Anna KareNina. “We’re really very excited for this project but at the same time feeling somewhat nervous,” 16-year-old Krystal divulges. The three young lass feel the pressure that surrounds them knowing fully well how big this Anna KareNina project is. And the fact that it airs after GMA 7’s flagship news program 24 Oras, they will be the first ones viewers can watch during the so-called GMA Telebabad timeslots. “But the three of us are blessed to be given this opportunity to showcase our acting talents among all the many talents at GMA. I am so honored and flattered,” adds Krystal. 

There will be a lot of firsts for Anna KareNina. Barbie Forteza will be portraying a role far from her usual ‘weak’ role in her past television drama/fantasy roles.  Barbie will be playing the role of Karen (originally played by Sunshine Dizon) who’s kikay but has a mean streak and can be unstoppable when provoked. “I’m very happy to portray a different role this time. It’s something that’s totally far from my usual roles of being the ‘underdog’ so things have become more challenging for me,” adds Barbie.

 “The original story had also been tweaked. There have been quite a lot of changes and other exciting stuff, like this time around, even us, we don’t really know who’s the real granddaughter of Donya Carmela in the story,” volunteers Krystal.

The three misses did not watch any of the past episodes of the original Anna KareNina so people can expect a fresh approach when it comes to acting from the three lead actresses. “We were actually advised by Direk Gina (Alajar) to watch snippets of the said soap to get some tips because most of us weren’t born yet when it was aired,” relates Joyce. “But we couldn’t find any, not even on youtube. So it may just be not meant for us to see,” says Barbie.

Anna KareNina is about Donya Carmela who will post a 10 million reward for whoever finds her granddaughter Anna Karenina Monteclaro. Hundred of 15-year-old girls will all claim the identity of Anna Karenina but most of them are fake; except for the three girls who showed authentic birth certificates and other proofs—all three girls bear the same name, yet they have different motives.

 Joining the three lead stars of Anna KareNina are Sandy Andolong (as Donya Carmela), Yul Servo, Derrick Monasterio, Julian Trono, Hiro Peralta, Neil Ryan Sese, Juan Rodrigo, Valerie Concepcion, Allan Paule, Ana Roces, Maureen Larrazabal, Maybelyn Dela Cruz, Alicia Meyer, Kathleen Hermosa, Joanna Marie Tan, and with the special participation of comebacking actress Yasmien Kurdi as the young mom of Anna KareNina.

Don’t fail to watch Anna KareNina beginning June 3 after 24 Oras on GMA 7!

Special thanks to MC Richard for the invites.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are my own.

THE ACADEMY OF INTERNATIONAL CULINARY ARTS: YES, YOU CAN ACHIEVE CULINARY EXCELLENCE!

In the animated film Ratatouille, the French chef Gusteau made that famous line: “Anyone can cook!” In my case, I’d like to think that because I love to eat, I must learn how to cook. Thus, that’s how my interest in culinary started. It’s true, anyone can cook. It’s really just a matter of having the right attitude; as in every new skill you have to learn and in doing so you become a dedicated student. 

Sure, there are recipes. It could either be simple or more advanced in technique, but nevertheless easy to follow. Always read through a recipe and familiarize yourself with the ingredients. In culinary, we have a French term called “Mise en Place”—it’s a golden rule followed by all professional chefs and culinary students. It literally means that all the ingredients are “put in place” before the actual cooking process begins.

My recent visit to the Academy for International Culinary Arts (AICA) during their Open House brought back memories of my own struggles as a culinary student taking up baking and pastry arts. With the numerous culinary schools nowadays sprouting like mushrooms, finding the right school had been quite a daunting task. You have to find out what these culinary schools can provide and offer? I think it’s also good to know and learn about their instructors’ experience and professional background so you can be assured of your own education

The author in her chef jacket.

The first time I set my foot on AICA, I thought it was some café or restaurant with an open kitchen. But it was later explained by the AICA’s school registrar/student coordinator, Ms. Khristine Crisostomo that it’s meant to be that way for the students’ restaurant simulation (a part of their course) where they have a task of designing and decorating the resto according to a certain theme and creating a menu based on it. 

AICA offers an International Culinary Arts Diploma Course—it’s a combination of strong theoretical foundation, advance practical training and intense formative experiences. They also have certificate courses such as Fundamentals of Professional Cooking (64 hrs.), Fundamentals of Professional baking and Pastry (64 hrs.), Fundamentals of Professional Asian or European Cooking (32 hrs.)

So you might ask why choose AICA? “We have been providing world-class culinary education since 2004. We have distinguished chef instructors with excellent credentials like Chefs Nicki Zamora, Neil Manuel, Lilibeth Camposano and pastry and baking chef Lara Dizon,” quips Mr. Jason Maquimot, AICA’s Marketing Coordinator. Not to be outdone with facilities, AICA boasts of a restaurant kitchen, professional kitchen and a basic kitchen, along with a classroom exclusive for a class size of 14 students per class to give ample hands-on and more focused culinary education. “Here at AICA, we have high hands-on policy. We’re also TESDA accredited plus reliable internship programs with top restaurants and hotels here and broad.” 

In fact, AICA’s president and proprietor, Mr. Michael Tiaoqui also studied culinary and baking and pastry at AICA himself so that he gets to experience the intensive and world-class training at AICA’s. You can even watch the AICA video here yourself: https://www.dropbox.com/s/7c5oyebuh5gseml/AICA%20avp-2013-for%20the%20blog.wmv

I believe practice makes one a better in the kitchen. Not all your dishes will come out perfect, but you will learn along the way. Enroll in a culinary school like AICA where small class size is always better than huge ones. Once you’re able to build confidence and erase self-doubt, you learn to cook by instinct. Here, your senses must be fully alert. Have a keen eye; learn to cook by touching, smelling and tasting. Good luck!

For more info on Academy of International Culinary Art or AICA, visit their website at www.aicaculinary.com or call (02) 672.2271/671.0276 to 77.

Special thanks to Ms. Khristine Crisostomo, Mr. Jason Maquimot and Mr. Ronald Sunglao. 

Check out their campuses:

Pasig Branch

2^nd flr. Skyway Twin Towers

351 Capt. Henry Javier Street, Brgy. Oranbo, Pasig City (Just a few blocks away from ULTRA and Valle Verde Country Club)

Cebu Campus:

The Gallery, Juan Luna St. Cor. Golam Drive, Mabolo, Cebu City, Philippines

(+632) 316.4828/268.5636.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are 100% my own.