• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Momma 'N Manila

Growing through parenting

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
  • Nourish
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Cheers
    • Guest Recipes
  • Advocate
    • Autism
    • Best Buddies
    • Down Syndrome
    • Special Needs
  • Gather
    • Crafternoons
    • Entertaining at Home
    • Events
    • Mothers Who Brunch
    • DIY
  • Review
    • 4 KIDS
    • Dining
    • Travel
    • Home & Hearth
    • Health & Beauty
    • Giveaways
    • Fashion
  • Nurture
    • Education
    • Parenting
    • Relationships
    • Yoga
  • MWB

DIY Sponsored

Christmas Decorating with SM Home

Just the other day, I posted about a few of the things that I have learned because I have lived in Manila for 10 years now. Of the many gifts I have received from my life here in Manila, one thing is for sure.

Christmas and the season of giving begins in early September.

img_5315-copy

The year after we moved to Manila, I remember killing time in one of the stores in a local mall. I remember the date clearly. It was September first. I was looking for a gift for Nino’s nephew in one of the local clothing shops because I had asked his mom what he needed for his birthday. I had a little less than a week to prepare what I would choose for him and wrap it so that we were ready for his simple birthday celebration.

I turned to the sales girl while sifting through the racks and said, “Oh Miss, you should change your music. I think someone mistakenly put on Christmas tunes.”

She turned to me and said “No Ma’am. There is no mistake. We are allowed to play Christmas music today. It’s September First.”

Ah, and there you have it. The ability of the Filipino people to stretch the most important holiday of the year for us, the day Jesus Christ was born, to an almost four month celebration.” 

YESSSSSSS.

img_5309-copy

Truth be told, I have not always enjoyed the fact that Christmas is four months long.

In the beginning years of my residence here, I wanted to enjoy all the holidays BEFORE Christmas.

I didn’t want to push Halloween or Thanksgiving out of the picture and put my tree up too early.

I wanted to relish in the days that led up to Christmas because it builds the excitement and it’s in the preparation that we create memories for our children as well.

img_5323-copy

But as the years have passed, I have embraced the idea that Christmas can come earlier than December 1st. I have made it my mission to now have my tree and decorations up BEFORE the day that we celebrate our make shift Thanksgiving. After all, who doesn’t love taking photos in front of a tree that’s brimming with lights, shiny ornaments, and memories?

I love what some of my friends do to make the most of their Christmas Tree and decorating. Two of my friends who are lovely homemakers and women I look up to because they keep such a lovely home.

My friends Karen and Kaye have "Halloween Trees!" Is that the most fun thing ever?

My friends Karen and Kaye have “Halloween Trees!” Is that the most fun thing ever? Photo Credit: Karen Boccone

Isn’t this tree so cute? And how easy is it for my friends to transition from Halloween to Christmas by simply removing all the ornaments and replacing them with shiny silver and gold ornaments to welcome the next holiday?

img_5348-copy

My Christmas Tree is the same Christmas Tree I have had since Nino and I first got married. It was a sound investment all those years ago. It came with us when we left New York, and traveled across the sea to find its home here in Manila.

It’s a good tree.

We have taken many a Christmas photos in front of this tree, and I’m sure if trees could talk, it would have some beautiful stories to tell.

img_5347-copy

Recently, when I visited SM Home, I got to thinking that maybe my tree could use an overhaul or a sprucing up of sorts. I have had a few different themes as the years have passed. From the hand made ornaments of the kids, to the angels which were given to me by Nino’s family, and as of recent, I have enjoyed using jewel tones to adorn our tree and home.

I wanted to buy SO MANY THINGS!

I think these are the fun ornaments that I would like to add to my jewel toned happy tree.

img_5318-copy

Ornaments, garland and decor in this flat lay range in price from Php99 to Php399.

They are all so fun, cute, and colorful! I can see it now…Gelli will be using my new ornaments in her play kitchen…

Come to think of it, I think my friends Karen and Kaye can even use ornaments like these for their Halloween tree as well! The candy theme is just so cute, I can’t take it!

Growing up, my mom changed the theme of our tree a few times. I loved decorating the tree with my mom, and looked forward to that time because we would put Christmas music on and she would make hot chocolate for us. But my most favorite theme for my mother’s tree was white and gold. I remember the year she changed it over, she made each of the little bows by hand. I was amazed at how creative she was, and I would lay for hours on the sofa with the tree lit up in all of its splendor.

It was calming for me to sit there…even now, I enjoy sitting in the dark room only lit by way of lights weaved carefully through each branch.

This set of ornaments and decor reminds me of my mother’s tree when I was growing up. I have added some silver in and even some bronze pics. Choosing these ornaments to put together for a flat lay made me nostalgic. I was thinking of my mom, and wishing we could be together for Christmas.

img_5334-copy

Ornaments, garland and decor in this flat lay range in price from Php 49 to Php 1699.

So when I was thinking of what to include in this post, I had quite a few ideas how to kick off the posts that welcome Christmas here on the blog. And as I was taking photos, the idea came to me that I should either make over my tree or refresh the look of my home. Being pratical, I’m thinking I will just refresh some new ornaments on our tree and keep the sentimental ones well, because they are sentimental.

But I think if I was to start over from scratch, I would also consider the traditional colors of red, green, and white. It reminds me of my Italian heritage. It’s classic. And I can choose to go playful or a little more fancy depending on what SM HOME has on the shelves for me at the moment.

img_5332-copy

Ornaments, garland and decor in this flat lay range in price from Php 99 to Php 679

I rather like what I came up with. What do you think? I’ve been working on my flat lays, and working on my styling. The other thing that really made it easy for me to put together these flat lays for you, was the help of the sales girl. She was even helpful in choosing different pieces that would compliment one another. 

I know that SM HOME also offers this kind of service as well. If you need help, they can assist. Not just in choosing your decorations, ribbons, ornaments and all things shiny, silvery, and gold, but even in choosing the right tree to start with.

How Cute are these gingerbread men? Perfect for a Cookie Swap!

How Cute are these gingerbread men? Perfect for a Cookie Swap!

But if you ask me, I prefer to pick everything up (perhaps with some help from the sales girls) make it a mish mosh of fun, cute, and playful things (because my kids are still young) and then I like to bake some cookies throw on some Christmas tunes, and have the kids help me trim the tree so we can welcome Baby Jesus and the spirit of Christmas into our home.

img_5349-copy

I’ve been a good girl this year. I hope Santa remembers me!

No matter if it is Christmas Decors or something for the home, I know, if I can take my time, I can come up with something creative to give the perfect hostess, the best teacher, the most caring yaya, and even my girlfriend who loves cooking. 

I love it even more that I can pick up all these fun items in one stop at SM HOME. Plus, when they have their sales, it’s so hard to resist. They make it so easy. EASY PEASY is my motto.

How do you decorate your home for the holidays? Do you decorate in all one theme? Is your tree matchy matchy with the rest of your home? Do you change decors yearly? Or are you like me, keeping some very sentimental pieces and adding others to the collection?

I would love to hear your home hacks and diy’s if you don’t mind sharing 🙂 

Remember, sharing is caring! 

https://smhome.com.ph
https://www.facebook.com/SMHome.ph
https://twitter.com/SMHome_Ph
https://www.instagram.com/smhome/

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related


« Be a Wall Against Dengue
Thanksgiving Gratitude »

Hello and Welcome!


Hi! Here is where I share my thoughts on yoga, cooking, crafting, raising a special child, exploring, eating, playing, and living in Manila.
READ MORE

You can also say hi or email me at mish@mommanmanila.com

Twitter

Tweets by @mishaventajado

Pinterest

Recent Posts

  • Our Dental Experience at Affinity Dental, One Bonifacio High Street
  • Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • A Grapeful Summer with Taste Australia
  • Suite Treat Mommy Weekend at Marco Polo Manila

Archives

Categories

Recent Comments

  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • Angelie G. Y. Melsbo on LUMOS RAY Projector Review

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @mommanmanila

mommanmanila

It’s December 1st! Is there anything more delic It’s December 1st!

Is there anything more delicious than the smell of Christmas and the new found freedom as we anticipate celebrating the holidays with our families again?

@festivalmall has hosted a series of musical shows since November 5th that include Ace Banzuelo and Silent Sanctuary. Check out Michael Pangilinan on December 10th, too!

With Santa visiting, Christmas parties, arts and crafts and lots of promos, you can even enter for a chance to win a Toyota Fortuner!

Best of all-I love it when the places we know give purpose to their celebrations. Thank you #FestivalMall for partnering with @dsapi1  this holiday season. 

Thank you for sharing all the different ways we can celebrate the holidays with you!

#tistheseason #seasonofgiving #downsyndromeawareness #aintnothingdownaboutit #upsyndrome
I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Th I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Through this learning exercise with @usapeecphl, I have learned a bit more about these little birds that have bigger breast parts, and thank you Chef @ivoryyat for showing me how easy it is to prepare Greek Lemon Roasted Cornish Hens with Roasted Potatoes.
 
Clean and fresh flavors are perfect for these smaller birds that are rich in protein with zero carbs. Try the recipe in the comments section. I’m sure you’d enjoy it as much as I did!
 
Interested in U.S. Cornish Hens? You can buy them in stores near you. #CornishHen #USCornishHen #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ad
@gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @pura @gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @puratosph products that they sent over the other day. Ready to use Bavarian Cream made these Cream Puffs easier than ever. I think we have to figure out how to temper our couverture better…

#workinprogress #wasdelicious #giabaked #puratosph #gavinosph #anyonecanbake
@mommymundo always has a way of bringing together @mommymundo always has a way of bringing together just what we need, no matter the time of year. Loving these photos of my first boy that were snapped @expomom.

Anyone else thinking about #HolidayPhotos? I am not one of those moms that has it all together before Christmas. It’s usually a mad dash for us at the end of the year, but if it’s anything that the past few years has taught me, it’s that the little things are what makes the Christmas special.

Many of us haven’t been together with the extended family or even our immediate family in so long. That means it’s the perfect time to document.

@nextbymetrophoto will be hosting one last Christmas Marathon family photo shoot before the end of year. Check them out or shoot them a message. They have some cute set-ups.
****GIVEAWAY ALERT*** 10 things I LOVE about @sed ****GIVEAWAY ALERT***

10 things I LOVE about @sedahotels listed here and on FB!

1. Each property has a Signature Dish. If you can’t make it to Bacolod, you can still enjoy Chicken Inasal in any of their properties.

2. Clean Design. So easy to work and play in a space that is light, modern, and clean in design. 

3. Beautiful views. Every chance I got, I would sit outside at @straightupatseda. 

4. Spacious Rooms and Residence Stays. Staying in the Three Bedroom Premier was perfect for our family. 

5. Attentive Service. Everyone was pleasant and accommodating.

6. Centrally Located. If you are thinking of fun things to do in Makati and want a home base, Seda Residences Makati is near a few of the museums, parks, and malls.

7. Work with ease. Internet service is uninterrupted. Meeting rooms are available and easy to book.

8. Relax and Play. From mid-day tubbies with Gelli to, taking advantage of the pool, or the children’s room, the little girl had more than enough things to keep her busy!

9. #FamilyTime. Spending an extended amount of time outside our own space led to laughter, fun conversations, and opportunities to try new things. We were comfortable and rested in the space we were in, which meant more opportunities for us to connect.

10. Homegrown with a Purpose. A Filipino brand that understands the importance of both work and travel, each property is important to the city & province location. Environmentally aware by adopting Mayumi, a Philippine Bald Eagle. 🦅

Want to win your own staycation at #SedaResidencesMakati?

Up for grabs is one night in a ONE BEDROOM DELUXE for two persons with breakfast!

Here’s how to enter to win:
1) Follow @sedahotels 
2) Follow @mommanmanila & @kitchen143 
3) Tag a friend (or more) who love(s) staycations too!
4) Comment why you should win this staycation treat!

Plus points for people who share this post in stories and the winner will be announced on December 6th.
Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work. Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work.

@kitchen143 is something I really do love. Sharing a little bit of my kitchen with viewers and followers brings me joy. Even better when I get to work with chefs whom I can learn from and friends who like to spend time in the kitchen too!

#Thanksgiving
Thankful for the gift of music. Wish I caught mor Thankful for the gift of music.

Wish I caught more mini moments from We Will Rock You.

Such a great musical!

@sedahotels 
#sedaresidencesmakati 
#sedaat10
Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. @gelliaventajado j Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. 

@gelliaventajado joined our family and led me to @bestbuddies. 

Thankful for all the ambassadors who were able to spend time with us. And for @smlpeeps  and @asurionphcareers for helping make magic happen on Saturday afternoon for #Friendsgiving.

#Thanksgiving #bestbuddiesph
Thankful for women who share their faith with me. Thankful for women who share their faith with me. 

#Thanksgiving
Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at this time of year? Whole turkeys require serious commitment to cook. #IYKYK But because U.S. Poultry is now available here in the Philippines, that also means preparing turkey is a tad bit easier.
 
Frozen U.S. turkey products are available and ready to cook for people who want to dabble with flavors for this bigger bird but aren't sure how.
 
Thank you to Chef @ivoryyat for putting together a medley of my favorite fall flavors. This combination of apples, sweet potatoes, and maple syrup perfectly compliment  the roasted turkey leg and remind me of flavors and scenes from back in New York. 
 
@usapeecphl l has the highest standards that follow USDA requirements which are certified safe before shipping to the Philippines. Get them in stores near you. 

#ad #Turkey #USTurkey #Thanksgiving #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ServeTurkey #EatTurkey
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2023 · Blog Design by Fancy Girl Design Studio

Copyright © 2023 · Divine Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

 

Loading Comments...