Big Bad Wolf Continues Hunt for 1M Readers at First-Ever Filinvest Tent Book Sale

Big news, Wolfies! Big Bad Wolf has officially landed at Alabang for the very first time! In pursuit of its mission to reach 1M new readers in 2024, Big Bad Wolf takes the world’s biggest book sale to the South at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang from August 23 to September 1, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 MN.

The opening of the book sale attracted a vibrant crowd of book enthusiasts and budding readers alike, all eager to explore the selection of titles available at budget-friendly prices. Metrobank returns, offering credit cardholders an exclusive 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000 at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale. Swedish furnishing brand IKEA is also heading to Alabang to give Wolfies from the South a special treat!

The Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale is part of Big Bad Wolf’s broader campaign to promote literacy and nurture a love for reading among people of all ages. The Filinvest book sale is the latest in a series of Big Bad Wolf book sales, dedicated to making books more accessible to more people across the country.

“We have always been passionate about igniting a love for reading and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality books,” said Big Bad Wolf Books Co-founder Jacqueline Ng who was present at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale VIP Day. 

Ng added, “It’s our first time in Alabang, and this marks another significant step toward our goal of bringing 1 million new readers into the fold. We believe that books can change lives, and we are even more committed to making books available to as many people as possible.”

Big Bad Wolf Books Philippine Managing Partner Carol Chuaying echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Big Bad Wolf’s mission to promote literacy. “We believe literacy is the foundation of learning and personal growth,” said Chuaying. “At every book sale, we are not just selling books. We are opening doors to new opportunities, knowledge, and a brighter future for everyone. We are thrilled to bring the book sale to Alabang and continue expanding our reach to more people.”

Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines Dato' ​​Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon, and Filinvest Alabang, Inc. First Vice President Don-Don Mari S. Ubaldo; Filinvest Corporate City Association Inc. General Manager Engr. Kristine P. Triviño; Festival Supermall, Inc. Vice President and Head of Corporate Marketing Denise Rae O. Lagayan; Festival Supermall, Inc. Assistant Vice President and South Cluster General Manager Engr. Christian Wesley D. Villanueva; joined Ng and Chuaying to celebrate the opening of the Big Bad wolf Filinvest Book Sale.

Aside from great deals, discounts, and Big Bad Wolf’ wide collection of over two million books, guests can expect even more excitement as Big Bad Wolf cooks up more surprises for another grand book sale experience that wolfies won’t soon forget. Keep an eye on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages to stay in the loop and find out more about the sneaky treats that the Wolf has in store.

South wolfies, ready to howl? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book sale at Filinvest Tent, Alabang, open from August 23 to September 1. Doors open daily at 10:00 AM to 12:00 MN! Grab your pack and get ready for an adventure you definitely shouldn’t miss! We’ll see you there! 

5 Planning and Budgeting Tips for Your Dream Home Build

 Many people nurture the dream of having a home to call their own. There’s nothing quite like a place where you can completely relax and attend to your loved ones, perfectly designed to accommodate your needs and lifestyle. Real estate also remains a great investment across generations, and your dream home can one day become a valuable asset that can be passed down to your children or relatives.

However, buying your dream home is a big financial decision requiring planning and budgeting beforehand. This is an investment that you’ll want to save up seriously for, from the initial land acquisition to the stage in which you roll out your home’s floor plan. Knowing that there are some long-term saving tips that will soon allow your hard work to translate into the home you’ve always wished for:

1) Review Your Current Financial Situation

For most people, buying a house isn’t a one-time expense. Many need to build up years of savings just to afford the down payment, while some inevitably have to take out loans to afford them. Different methods of financing a home can suit different people depending on their income, so it’s up to you to determine how best to fund your future dream home.

To that end, your first step should be to undergo an in-depth review of your current financial situation. Do you have the savings to fund a down payment? Can your income comfortably support paying a monthly mortgage? What will constitute your monthly expenses after you finally become a homeowner? Having a clear view of your income and expenses will help you determine whether you’re financially capable of buying a home at the moment or if you still need time to build up your savings.

If you’re an aspiring homeowner based in the Philippines, you can start saving up for your home with Maya Savings, which allows you to enjoy a base rate of 3.5% interest p.a. that you can still boost up to 15% by simply using your Maya wallet when paying for your day-to-day expenses. A high-interest savings account like this one will not only help you save; it will also allow you to earn more substantially on your savings as you finance your future home.

2) Start Saving Up for the Down Payment

Once you’ve determined that you’re financially ready to buy and plan your home, it will be time to start saving up for a down payment. Remember that as far as down payments go, a smaller amount doesn’t always mean getting a better deal. Aim to put down an amount that’s higher than the minimum so that your monthly mortgage payments will be much more manageable.

If you’re still saving up to make a higher down payment, then try out personal finance solutions like Maya Personal Goals or Time Deposit Plus. Maya Personal Goals will allow you to set up to five sub-accounts that all stand for specific financial goals, and each one will have a designated due date and goal amount. From your Maya Savings account, label a goal “house down payment” and start allotting money from your main account to that sub-account. Your personal goal can earn 4% interest p.a. monthly, thus giving your savings for your home an extra boost.

Meanwhile, opening a Maya Time Deposit Plus account will allow you to benefit from high interest rates for your savings—up to 5.75% interest p.a. monthly if you reach your target amount and date. You can also add to your initial deposit after the term starts and thus earn a bigger amount when the time deposit matures. Simply set your savings term, and then allow the money for your home down payment to keep accruing interest.

3) Cut Back on Unnecessary Expenses

To support your goal of buying a house, over the long term, you should implement some lifestyle changes to get rid of unnecessary expenses. This could mean dialing back first on expensive holidays and instead putting the money you could’ve spent into your account for your dream home savings.

See if there are recurring expenses you can lower as well. For example, perhaps there are more affordable alternatives to the usual brands you buy. If quality and effectiveness won’t be compromised, then consider making the switch to add to your savings. Given that you’ll be spending on your dream home long after you’ve acquired it, every little peso put toward the future counts.

4) Look for Ways to Increase Your Income

If it’s viable, you should also look for ways to increase your income so that it won’t take you too long to buy your dream home and everything else that comes with it. This will allow you to be in a better financial position to support the ongoing expenses and make them less heavy on your wallet.

Try out part-time or freelance work to help add to your earnings, or perhaps explore opening a home business and offering your products or services to a certain market. You can also apply for a loan to ease up your cash flow, as long as it won’t be an extra financial burden to make the repayments. 

5) Visit Open Houses

Lastly, so that you can visualize the dream home you want to save up for, consider attending an open house event soon. Open houses are properties that are open for public viewing, essentially allowing potential buyers like you to window shop for homes.

Your attendance at an open house event may give you more ideas on the look and build you may want your future home to have. During the event, you may also get the opportunity to talk to real estate agents regarding prices and financing options. Keep an open mind about what form your dream home could take, and you may find it easier to plan the particulars—especially your budget and requirements.

In a long time it could take between your decision to build your dream home and your first time to step through the doors, you may find it both scary and difficult to maintain your financial discipline. But tips like these should give your plan some structure and make it easier to focus on the bigger goal of living your dream life in your own place. 

My St. Peter Story

 Last May, I lost my Mom. 

She passed away on a Friday, after lunch. The time and date of death matter if you want everything sorted within 24 hours. What do I mean by this? 

1. Processing and registering the death certificate. Apparently, if the death occurred Friday after lunch or on the weekend, you will need to wait until Monday to get this processed. Nothing else can be done until then. You will need to have your loved one inside a freezer which costs additional money and additional emotional stress.

2. Approval of Cremation. Since we live in Las Pinas and the only licensed crematorium of St. Peter is in Quezon City, we need approval to transfer the body from Las Pinas to Quezon City and only then can we get a slot for the cremation. 

3.  The actual embalming which takes hours and then the cremation that also takes hours.

If we didn't have a St. Peter plan, all of these would only be processed on Monday which would have meant that we had to put my Mom in a freezer for 3 unnecessary days. 

Thank God I got a St. Peter plan on a whim during an event last year. I paid the first year and this allowed me to transfer my plan to my Mom for a fee of only Php500. 

The St. Peter team took care of everything. They were respectful, efficient, and they went out of their way to make things happen for us and to not add more stress at the most painful moment of my life.

Not once did I feel that it was just business for them, from my St. Peter contact person Marj to the staff of Las Pinas. Everyone was so helpful and respectful. Note that since I just lost my Mom, I was severely volatile because I was angry at the world for taking my Mom away. 

I had no reason to explode. St. Peter handled everything professionally and with touches of humanity. 

THERE WAS NO UNNECESSARY STRESS at any point. 

They guided us with the paperwork. They helped us get things done so we could cremate our Mom the next day. They made sure that after cremation, our Mom was placed in this beautiful ceramic urn that was part of the package already. 

By the time we went back from Quezon City to Las Pinas, my Mom's viewing room was already decorated and ready. 

The flower arrangement was an add-on and not part of the service but it was asked of us before we were about to leave so it did not feel forced. We were very happy that we got it because our Mom's urn looked more beautiful once placed in the middle. 

The people at the crematorium also offered this beautiful locket where some of my mom's ashes can be placed since I asked about how to go about putting ashes in mementos, lockets, or keychains. 

Overall, I can honestly say that St. Peter thought of everything that can make the processing of the death of a loved one easier. 

They took care of everything: 

1. getting the body and bringing it to the morgue
2. processing of the death certificate
3. registering the death certificate (this was an add on help which they did not charge us for)
4. giving the timeline for the embalming 
5. what steps were needed to transfer the body 
6. what steps were needed to cremate the body 
7. transferring the body 
8. cremation the body 
9. choosing the urn 
10. providing options if you want to put the ashes to bring with you 
11. handling the viewing room 
12. small eulogy for the departed 

I don't even know what we would have done without St. Peter. We don't know anything about all these steps so having them was a godsend.

I can honestly say that getting a St. Peter plan has been one of the best decisions of my life. I actually already got another one and I plan to get for my husband and kids. 

As much as we don't want life to end, it will all go there and end so might as well make sure that those left won't have a hard time dealing with things so they can just focus on the grieving. 

I am sharing this because I know that there are people like me. People who have ZERO IDEA of what to do when someone they love pass away. Get a St. Peter plan. You need it. Your family needs it. We all need it. 

Trust me. 

This is the information of my St. Peter person. I am so happy that I chose to do this with her. 

Marjorie Pineda-Uy

St. Peter Life Plan, Sta. Mesa

Mobile No. 09178145009 

Email: marjuy.financialwellness@gmail.com 

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/WomanInDigital 

Camella, A Brand Built on a Foundation of Life-Long Dreams

In 1977, a vision grew from a newly founded gravel and sand company, laying the foundation for what would become a leading force in the national building sector.  

As the enterprise expanded into construction and property development, it became clear that its ultimate mission was to enable every Filipino to call a home of their own. Capitalizing on its growing real estate operations, the company aimed to turn these long-held dreams into reality. The focus shifted to serving hardworking kababayans, particularly the Overseas Filipinos (OFs)—the nation's unsung heroes.

Recognizing the potential to harness economies of scale and a network of construction experts and suppliers, the strategy evolved from building individual homes to developing entire housing communities. This approach facilitated the creation of cost-effective, high-quality homes. By offering homes with uniform designs and amenities, many Filipinos who once considered homeownership out of reach saw their dreams realized. This innovation led to the creation of Communities Philippines, which eventually became one of the most cherished and largest home builders in the country, Camella.

Built on Dreams and Building Legacies

This vision has developed into more than 200 communities dotting the archipelago, where dreams continue to evolve and take on deeper meaning. Today, Camella represents more than the realization of lifelong ambitions; it symbolizes the creation of family legacies. These homes are not just structures but receptacles of years of memories, adventures, and conversations. They are treasures shared across multiple generations, carrying the imprint of each individual and family that has lived within their walls, spanning from the last five decades to the hope of many more tomorrows.

Camella, the most recognizable name in Philippine real estate, has become synonymous with homes across the country and is intricately woven into the national consciousness. This narrative was born at the meeting of two essential elements: the Filipino collectivist culture and the fundamental belief that homes are cornerstones of many family legacies. Camella is a dedication for every Filipino who wishes to own a home in a community that champions the values they uphold and what the family holds true––through each generation.

Wherever They Want to Live

Camella has committed to realizing the vision of turning Filipino dreams of homeownership into reality while crafting spaces where cherished memories can be created and preserved for many generations. In doing so, the company also embraces every homeowner's desire to settle in any part of the country they choose. Whether driven by tradition, employment opportunities, or simply the beauty and charm of the location, Camella has established communities that cater to these aspirations.

Consequently, the brand has expanded across the country farther than any other. Having the widest geographic reach was essential from the outset, building communities in the exact locations where Filipinos wish to reside—places where they feel more at ease, believe they can lead their best lives, and where they can relish in cherished memories—where they truly feel at home.

Understanding the ethos behind Camella is crucial, especially the philosophy that a home is not limited to the walls of its structure but includes the whole community in which one resides. Every Camella community is crafted with purposely built spaces where neighbors can gather and connect. Features include clubhouses with function halls and al fresco seating, swimming pools to cool off in the tropical heat, play areas, sports courts, jogging paths, piazzas, and parks. These spaces invite residents to step outside and engage in activities, conversations, and playdates, all set within beautifully landscaped surroundings. Camella aims to foster a sense of belonging among its residents, making them feel "I belong here."

Building Up to 50 with Five Pillars

With Camella approaching its 50th year, the company will also celebrate half a century of building homes and communities that make every Filipino family's dream real. 

The longevity of Camella as a preferred housing brand is anchored in its five brand aspirations. These ideals shape every aspect of operations, from day-to-day functions to long-term pursuits, laying the groundwork for lasting success. 

Dream Communities. Each Camella development is a themed neighborhood featuring landscapes inspired by the most beautiful places in the world. Camella holds the view that the true home of its residents goes beyond the walls of their individual houses, embracing the broader neighborhood and community as integral parts of their living space.

Convenience and Accessibility. Camella strategically builds its communities near the center of progressive cities. It understands the importance of safety and security in tranquil environments and having easy access to urban conveniences offered, allowing the residents to experience life and pursue their goals in ways of their choosing. 

Safety and Security. At the forefront of community planning is the integration of safety and security measures within every Camella neighborhood. The company upholds that homeowners deserve to live in environments where they feel secure and at ease, enabling them to unwind and address their concerns without worries.

Wise Investment. Each Camella home built is an investment that appreciates through time and grows with the families living there.

Value for Money. Camella builds dream environments, spaces, and amenities that enhance the lives of its homeowners, both now and in the future, ensuring they are entitled to the full value of their investments. In Camella, every family finds the upgraded lifestyle they have been seeking in their communities, leading to the fulfillment of their dreams. 

The journey spanning five decades from a gravel and sand company to becoming a household name has been remarkable. What stands out even more is the capacity to grow and evolve like Camella has done while staying true to the core mission of providing a home for every Filipino family. Over the years, Camella has seamlessly combined the aspirations of its founding principles with the evolving desires of the Filipino families it serves, continuing to deeply resonate with its community.

After all, that is precisely why Camella is here––and why it keeps building.

Learn more about Camella here: https://www.camella.com.ph/. 

Big Bad Wolf Comes to Alabang!

Calling all Wolfies! Big Bad Wolf is making its way to the south of the metro! The world’s biggest book sale is set to take over the Filinvest Tent in Alabang from August 23 to September 1.

The Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale marks Big Bad Wolf’s return to the South, but its first time in Alabang. As it strives to reach 1M new readers, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale makes its highly anticipated debut in Alabang! The VIP Day of the Filinvest book sale, happening on August 22, will see the presence of Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon, and the Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines Dato' Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino.

With more exciting surprises up ahead, Big Bad Wolf promises to deliver a spectacular book sale experience for residents of Alabang and neighboring areas, all while it furthers its mission to promote literacy and inspire a life-long passion for reading in communities far and wide. Bringing its selection of over two million books at insanely good prices, plus jaw-dropping deals and discounts, book enthusiasts and budding readers from the south of the city are sure to pile on their next great reads! Join us for another great adventure you definitely won’t want to miss!

WHAT The Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale 

WHEN August 23 to September 1, 10 AM - 12 NN

WHERE Filinvest Tent, Alabang

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)  

About Big Bad Wolf Books

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers worldwide. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these are different Asian cities like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.  

7 Essential Tips for Aspiring Content Creators and Momfluencers

As a seasoned blogger and fellow content creator, I know firsthand how exciting yet daunting this journey can be. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft, I’ve gathered some essential tips that have helped me thrive as a content creator and momfluencer. 

1. Master the Basics of Content Creation

First things first, you need to nail the basics. When I started, I spent hours figuring out what worked best for me. Here’s what I learned:

Find Your Niche: What are you passionate about? What can you talk about endlessly? That’s your niche. Be authentic and let your personality shine through.

Stay Consistent: Consistency builds trust with your audience. Whether it's posting once a day or once a week, stick to a schedule.

Develop Your Voice: Your unique voice is what sets you apart. Don’t be afraid to show your quirks and personality.

2. Invest in Essential Tools & Skills

Having the right tools can make a world of difference. Here are my go-tos:

Quality Gear: You don’t need the most expensive camera, but invest in good quality equipment. A decent smartphone camera, some basic lighting, and a good mic can work wonders.

Content Planning Tools: I swear by Google Keep and my Happy Planner. Planning helps me stay organized and consistent.

Learn the Basics: Basic photography, videography, and editing skills go a long way. There are tons of free resources online to help you get started.

3. Create a Stunning Media Kit & Rate Card

A media kit is your digital resume, and trust me, it’s a game-changer.

What to Include: Your bio, audience demographics, past collaborations, and key stats. Make it easy for brands to see your value.

Design Matters: Use tools like Canva to make it look professional. A well-designed media kit can make a great first impression.

Clear Rate Card: Outline your services and fees clearly. Knowing your worth is crucial when negotiating with brands.

4. Leverage the Power of PR

Good PR can elevate your brand in ways you never imagined.

Build Relationships: Connect with PR agencies and brands. It’s all about building and maintaining good relationships.

Network: Attend industry events, join online groups, and engage with fellow creators. Networking can open doors to amazing opportunities.

Use PR Strategically: PR isn’t just about getting featured; it’s about boosting your visibility and credibility.

5. Avoid Common Posting Pitfalls

We all make mistakes, but here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Overposting/Underposting: Find a balance. Too much content can overwhelm your audience, while too little can make them lose interest.

Engage Authentically: Respond to comments, ask questions, and make your audience feel valued. Interaction builds community.

Prioritize Mental Health: Set boundaries and take breaks when needed. Your well-being is more important than any post.

6. Handle Bashers with Grace

Negative comments are inevitable, but handling them well is key.

Differentiate Feedback: Learn to spot constructive criticism and ignore trolling. Take the constructive, ignore the rest.

Respond Thoughtfully: Sometimes it’s better not to engage. Choose your battles wisely.

Seek Support: Connect with fellow creators for support. It helps to have a community that understands what you’re going through.

7. Negotiate with Brands & Manage Ex-Deals

Collaboration can be incredibly rewarding if managed well.

Craft Compelling Pitches: Highlight your unique value and how you can benefit their campaign. Confidence is key.

Set Clear Terms: Make sure both parties have clear terms and expectations. This helps avoid misunderstandings.

Know When to Say No: Not every offer is right for you. Know your worth and don’t be afraid to walk away from deals that don’t align with your values.

Being a content creator and momfluencer is a journey filled with growth, authenticity, and connection. You've got the tools and tips to succeed—now go out there and make your content shine!

What’s the most valuable tip you’ve learned? I’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments below. 

8 Manifestationshis 8.08

I kept seeing that this 8.08 is what they call the Lion's Gate. They say that the portal will be open, which is the best time to manifest things. 

"Occurring annually, the Lion's Gate Portal happens when the star Sirius aligns with the Sun in Leo, creating a time believed to be extremely fortunate for making dreams come true." 

With how everything is going, I figured, no harm in trying things out. It says that I should write my 8 manifestations and post them within the strongest hours which is 8am to 8pm of the 8th day of the 8th month of the year. 

So, here are my 8 manifestations. 

1. I am financially stable with savings in multiple accounts in the 7-digit figure. I no longer have debt and every loan has been paid off. 

2. I am enjoying my brand new 7-seater SUV that we bought and can pay in easy installment terms that are not heavy on the budget. 

3. I am producing content regularly with followers that have multiplied a thousandfold and I am enjoying popularity with my subscribers and followers in a very positive manner.

4. I am in a very loving relationship with my husband, kids, siblings, and friends. 

5. I am healthier, stronger, and more flexible when it comes to my body. My husband is also in his best version of his mental and physical state. 

6. I am praying regularly, meditating, and have a calmer state because I have found my zen. 

7. I am collaborating with my dream brands regularly and these are all paid in the 5-digit figures. 

8. I am helping others in my own little ways and I am a blessing to other people. 

To be honest, I didn't have 8 manifestations but I had to think of 8 so I did. I've come to realize that amongst all of these, it's really the first that I want to manifest the most. 

As I will it, so mote it be. 

5 Brands that I Use for Khali

Khali is now in nursery and since he now goes to school, there are certain things that I need to buy for him and use so that he will be comfortable in school. As a Mom, we all know the perils and stress when kids are at school and we want to make sure that we can keep them safe. 

So, how do I do this? 

1. Efficascent Oil 

This is what I put on my son's tummy, back, and head when he finishes taking a bath. I use this to make sure that he won't easily catch a cold. It's important because kids tend to run around and it's an added layer of protection. 

2. OFF Sakura-no-Hana Lotion 

I use this to protect him from mosquito bites. We all know that schools fumigate but there will always be wayward mosquitoes and since I am worried about dengue and itchy marks, I make sure to put this on him before he goes to school. It also doesn't smell like the usual OFF Lotion. 

3. Johnson's Baby Active Kids Shower

 We use this on Khali since he runs around a lot. He's very active and gets sweaty so we need to make sure that he won't smell. This shower gel is already good for his head and body so it's a 2in1. Since he started using this, he no longer smells like sweat or the sun even when he's been out running. 

4. Johnson's Baby Powder 

This is a staple in our home since he was a baby. I grew up with it, my first born used this, and Khali will definitely continue to use this. This is what we use after every bathtime, when he gets sweaty and needs to change clothes, and at night to make him feel more comfortable and have a good sleep. 

5. Cough Patch 

I discovered this in one of those videos and decided to give it a chance. Since then, I have made sure that I always have stocks in hand and the moment I hear him coughing, I put some on his chest and back to make sure that it doesn't get worse. So far, it has been effective in the last year since we started using this. 

This is not sponsored to be clear. I just wanted to share with you what I use for my kids because it might work for your kids too. Let me know if you have tried any of the items I listed. 

Flawless and Effortless: Dazzle Me's Makeup Must-Haves for the Working Gals

In today's fast-paced world, juggling multiple roles is a reality for many women. Whether you're a busy mom or a dynamic boss babe, finding makeup that not only enhances your beauty but also fits into your hectic schedule is crucial. Enter Dazzle Me's trio of game-changing products: the Maxnificent Essence Cushion, Fixed Loose Powder, and Double Way Two Way Cake. These products promise to keep you looking flawless and feeling fabulous all day long, with minimal effort.

Dazzle Me Maxnificent Essence Cushion

The Dazzle Me Maxnificent Essence Cushion is a true marvel in the world of makeup. This cushion foundation offers a 12-hour long wear and micro-fine coverage, ensuring your complexion remains flawless from morning to night. But what truly sets it apart is its skin-loving formula. Infused with Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Camellia Extract, Resveratrol, and Witch Hazel Water, this cushion not only perfects your skin but also nurtures it.

Benefits

12-Hour Long Wear: No need for midday touch-ups; this cushion stays put all day.

Micro-Fine Coverage: Achieve a natural, airbrushed finish without the heaviness.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: Niacinamide brightens, Vitamin E nourishes, Camellia Extract soothes, Resveratrol provides antioxidant protection, and Witch Hazel Water controls oil and reduces inflammation.

Flashback Proof: Perfect for photos, ensuring you always look your best.

For moms on the go and career-driven women, the Maxnificent Essence Cushion offers quick and easy application with impressive longevity. Plus, the added skincare benefits mean you're treating your skin to a little TLC every time you apply your makeup.

Dazzle Me Fixed Loose Powder

The Dazzle Me Fixed Loose Powder is your secret weapon for maintaining a flawless, matte complexion all day long. This powder offers a filter-like cover that blurs imperfections and provides an instant oil fix, making it a must-have in your makeup arsenal.

Benefits

12-Hour Long Wear: Keeps your makeup looking fresh and flawless.

Filter-Like Cover: Blurs imperfections, giving you a smooth, matte finish.

Instant Oil Fix: Controls shine and keeps you looking polished.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: With the same beneficial ingredients as the Essence Cushion, your skin receives continuous care.

For those who juggle multiple responsibilities, this powder is a lifesaver. It instantly fixes oil and sets your makeup, allowing you to quickly freshen up without fuss, perfect for maintaining your look throughout a busy day.

Dazzle Me Double Way Two Way Cake

Versatility is key with the Dazzle Me Double Way Two Way Cake. This dual-use product offers customizable coverage for all-day zero shine. Available in six shades ranging from C02 Light Pearl to W06 Deep Cocoa, it caters to a wide range of skin tones.

Benefits

Dual Use: This can be used wet for higher coverage or dry for a lighter finish.

All Day Zero Shine: Keeps skin matte and oil-free all day long.

Versatile Shades: Six shades ensure a perfect match for various skin tones.

The dual-use functionality of this product makes it incredibly convenient, allowing you to adjust your coverage depending on your needs. Its all-day zero shine feature ensures you stay fresh and matte, whether you're running errands or leading a meeting.

The Dazzle Me Maxnificent Essence Cushion, Fixed Loose Powder, and Double Way Two Way Cake are perfect companions for efficient, long-lasting makeup solutions. With their skin-loving ingredients and impressive performance, they cater to the needs of busy moms and dynamic boss babes alike. 

These products ensure you look polished and confident without spending too much time on your makeup routine, leaving you free to conquer your day with ease and elegance. 

Dazzle Me is available at SM and on your favorite online shops. 

Remembering Francine Pascal: The Creator of Sweet Valley

For many of us, Sweet Valley wasn't just a series of books; it was an essential part of growing up, filled with unforgettable moments and characters that felt like friends. For me, Sweet Valley was where I learned a lot of lessons about life and what I need to stay away from. 

It was also where my imagination was cultivated. The Magna Editions were the best in either making me feel whimsical or terrified out of my wits.  

I have read almost the entire series: Sweet Valley Kids, Sweet Valley Twins, Sweet Valley High, Sweet Valley Senior Year, Sweet Valley University, and Sweet Valley Confidential. 

Here are 10 reasons why I believe that teens today may still be able to relate to these books, or most parts of it. 

Relatable Character

The twin sisters, Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield, were the perfect balance of sweetness and sass. Elizabeth's responsible and caring nature contrasted beautifully with Jessica's adventurous and sometimes mischievous spirit. No matter who you were, there was always a character you could see yourself in.

Dramatic Storylines

Who could forget the heart-wrenching moment when Regina Morrow died in "On The Edge"? Regina's death was a stark reminder of the consequences of drug use, a powerful lesson wrapped in a compelling narrative.

Suspense and Mystery

The series wasn’t just about everyday life; it also included thrilling plots like when Elizabeth Wakefield was kidnapped in "Kidnapped!" The suspense kept us on the edge of our seats and made us appreciate the value of safety and trust.

Romantic Adventures

The Sweet Valley High series was filled with crushes, first loves, and heartbreaks. Whether it was Elizabeth's steady relationship with Todd Wilkins or Jessica's more tumultuous romances, there was always a love story to follow and swoon over.

Life Lessons

The books didn’t shy away from tackling serious issues. From dealing with peer pressure and bullying to exploring themes of honesty and integrity, Sweet Valley High was as much about learning as it was about entertainment.

Nostalgic Setting

Sweet Valley was the quintessential small town with sunny beaches and friendly neighbors. The setting was so vividly described that we could almost feel the California sun and hear the waves crashing as we read.

Family Dynamics

The Wakefields of Sweet Valley gave us a deeper understanding of the twins' family history, emphasizing how our backgrounds shape who we are. The series highlighted the importance of family bonds and the complexities of sibling relationships.

Friendship Goals

The friendships in Sweet Valley were aspirational. Whether it was the bond between the twins and their friends or the loyalty within their social circles, the series portrayed the importance of having a strong support system.

Fashion and Trends

For many of us, the books were a window into the world of teenage fashion and trends. Jessica's fashion-forward outfits and Elizabeth's classic style gave us plenty of inspiration for our own wardrobes.

Escapism

At its core, Sweet Valley High provided a much-needed escape from the pressures of school and family. It was a world where we could lose ourselves in the drama, romance, and adventures of the Wakefield twins.

As I reminisce about those days spent with a Sweet Valley book in hand, I am reminded of how Francine Pascal's stories shaped my tween years. Each book was a journey into the lives of characters who felt like friends, teaching us about life, love, and the importance of staying true to ourselves.

Francine Pascal's legacy lives on in the hearts of her readers. Through the ups and downs of Elizabeth and Jessica's lives, we learned to navigate our own challenges. As we say goodbye to the brilliant mind behind Sweet Valley, we celebrate the joy and lessons she brought into our lives. Thank you, Francine, for the memories and for making our tween years a little bit sweeter.