Joyful Celebration
When I was a child, the holidays were always in full swing in our home right after my birthday in early November. While pine, eucalyptus and cinnamon are synonymous with the season for many, for me it’s that strange smell of warm plastic from a synthetic tree glowing with hot twinkle lights, mixed with the intoxicating scent of fried bacon-wrapped banana poppers. I would smuggle a few from the kitchen and bring them under the Christmas tree. I would snack on the sweet and salty treats as I lay under the tree staring at the sparkling lights blurring my vision, making me feel as though I was floating in a forest of fireflies.
The house would be clamouring with holiday stress; my mother in a flurry trying to get the tables prepped, the food ready and the drinks chilled. I enjoyed the feeling of anticipation welling up inside me as I remained motionless, and the whole world spun around me in an excited frenzy. Our Christmas Eves would be loud and boisterous family affairs with over 40 people: my abuelita, my parents, siblings, titos, titas, cousins and any straggler who needed a welcoming home for the holidays. The joyful chaos that ensued was always the epitome of Christmas for me.
Times have undoubtedly changed, and if there is one thing I have realised, it is that while big parties are fun, I personally enjoy smaller, more intimate gatherings. Those that leave room for more meaningful and heartfelt conversations, where I can spoil my guests with more elaborate dishes and beautiful, carefully selected wine. I love styling the dinner table, creating complex and festive arrangements, taking the time to handcraft these myself. My favourite moment is when the candles have burnt out, the last drop of wine has been sipped, everyone looks around happily smiling— and someone suggests: “Shall we open another bottle?” You know it’s going to be a memorable night.
However, the most special memories are the most innocuous ones. Unexpected sticky hugs and kisses from my children on sleepy Saturday mornings after pancake breakfasts. A spontaneous phone call from an old friend that turns into a long and animated catch up. Waking up extra early to quietly enjoy my freshly brewed cacao on the terrace with my pup, Pepper. These times, when we can honour life and relish deep human connections, are truly valuable. This is luxury.
In this issue, we celebrate the people, spaces and objects that help us achieve those small yet significant moments. Photographed by Scott A Woodward, quintessential hostess and lifestyle writer Alicia Sy opens her home and shows us how to put together a space that is layered with meaning and memories. Carol Karthe showcases her newly built residence in Sta Elena that prioritises seamless outdoor and indoor living, with vast open spaces for welcoming guests. Nathalie Kuepfer Henares and Happy Ongpauco-tiu share their family traditions and recipes, while the glamourous Tina Cuevas gives tips on entertaining. We also gather the metro’s best appetisers in a sumptuous renaissance spread styled by Isabel Lozano for W17 and captured by the talented Sonny Thakur. Gift ideas, sweets, treats and many more festive inspirations fill these colourful pages.
We also explore the soulful Danish concept of Hygge, which means to create a warm and cosy atmosphere where one can enjoy good things with good people. I can’t think of a better way to sum up what this issue is all about.
Cheers to a joyous and meaningful season with the people you love!