A Time of Giving and Forgiving

Before everyone gets caught up with the holiday rush, the stream of parties, and the endless eating that always comes with this season, it’s always good to take a pause and consider what else the holidays have to offer. Too many times, we’re focused on completing our Christmas shopping or ticking things off our to-do lists that we don’t realize that the act of giving can go past the mundane and material, but move with more depth and substance.

Giving something of ourselves to those we love may come naturally to many. Another challenge that comes with this season is the ability to not just give, but forgive—both those we love, and those we’ve come to fall out with. The act of giving and forgiving doesn’t just connect us to others, but essentially allows us to better our relationships with ourselves too. After all, there is no better gift to give yourself than more love, forgiveness, compassion and care—regardless of the season.

Here are some tips to prepare your heart for the holidays!

Tips for Giving:

1. Honor the other person by devoting your full attention to them. Forget your phone for an hour or two while you’re out having Christmas lunch with your best friend. Turn off the Internet when reading your kids a bedtime story. We’re so busy trying to multi-task we are hardly ever present for ourselves or for others. Create opportunities to bring focus to the ones you love this season.


2. Think different. A little creativity goes a long way—whether it’s for a gift you’d like to DIY for your parents, or for a new way to spend New Year’s Eve with the family. Exerting a little effort can help you work around tight budgets and infuse a little more of your own personality into what you offer others.


3. Open yourself up. Christmas is all about traditions, but there is always space to tweak your practice. If your husband’s family wants to go out of town for the break but you’ve always been a stickler for staying at home, be willing to compromise and try new things out. Allowing change to happen is a gift in and of itself.


4. Put yourself in others’ shoes. Exercising compassion is key in softening your heart and expanding your spirit during the holidays. Forgiveness may come more easily when you realize that just like you, that person who’s been a challenge to deal with, just wants to be happy.


5. Acknowledge the past and put it behind you. Again, this comes to being aware of the present moment. Forgiveness becomes difficult when we become too attached to what happened in the past. Realize that what happened has happened, and while you’re living the consequences of your past today, you can choose what you take with you as heavy baggage or what you consider today as a lesson to live by.


6. Ponder this thought. A gift is pure when it is given from the heart to the right person at the right time and at the right place, and when we expect nothing in return. —The Bhagavad Gita

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Stay Christmas Shopping Savvy

The holiday rush is upon us—this is the Philippines after all, home of the world’s longest Christmas season. If Filipinos had their way, we’d be celebrating the holidays not just from September to January, but all the way through the rest of the year. That said, an extended Yuletide season also means a prolonged high-stress shopping situation. Finding the last stock of Furbies in a toy store can mean going into a virtual battle zone, and making sure your ensaymada orders get in before your favorite home baker runs out of ingredients can present migraine-inducing troubles too.

It is key to approach the season with the grace of a seasoned shopper, the calm of someone who knows exactly what she’s doing, and the lightheartedness of Santa Claus. Retract those claws, and transform yourself into a savvy seasonal shopper with these tips.

Make that list and check it a dozen times. Preparation is the only way to beat this highly stressful season. Bank on your Excel prowess, pull up your best pocket-sized notebook and categorize, prioritize, and most importantly, write everything down. If you don’t write down your initial gift ideas, the names of almost-forgotten godchildren, you will almost certainly miss out on them. Get on it.

Carve out a budget. Figure out which column in your spreadsheet you’re willing to shell out a few extra bucks for, and which giveaways will have to be relegated to the 100-peso mark. The season of giving isn’t about monetary value, but as a giver, you have to stay on top of fund allocation.

Put a personal touch. Everyone will be hitting the bazaars this month and next. Do you really want to give the same shoe bag / bag organizer / rubber stamp set that everyone else will be gifting? If you must give in to your bazaar buys, then put a spin on your purchases to make them stand out. Be unique.

Regulate your payments. Allocate spending to cash, credit card, and even gift certificate purposes. Big ticket items that you can avail on installment at 0% can be relegated to plastic. The token classroom gifts your kid needs to tote to her class Christmas party can be sorted out with whatever cash you’ve got on hand. Groupon deals that you’re giving away can be purely on your PayPal account. Strategize your spending so you don’t end up with bill shock and unrealistic deadlines.

Schedule shopping hours. Go to Divisoria on a weekday morning to keep your sanity intact. Do your online shopping on a Sunday, when the malls are too busy to even deal with. Run through the malls during off hours to avoid the weekend rush.

Take a breather. Give yourself a break in the midst of attacking your shopping list and your errands. The last thing you need is seasonal burnout, when aside from all the buying and giving, you’ve also got weeks upon weeks of parties to attend. Watch a movie in between shopping and take a quick salon break to refresh and re-energize!

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Trick or Treating 101

Halloween can seem like a free-for-all for both kids and adults—a day to escape the rudimentary, day-to-day in order to get out of your skin (figuratively, and almost quite literally!). Now things can go either one of two ways, getting into the spirit of ghouls, ghosts, zombies and tearing through town with wild abandon; or exercising just the right amount of restraint and civility to keep everyone happy.
Parents can allow their kids to indulge a penchant for sweet treats, but at the same time (and without being a killjoy), give them appropriate boundaries to ensure they stay safe yet still spirited. Of course, the rules apply to the adults too—just to ensure that the partying doesn’t get out of hand and to avoid unfortunate Halloween hangovers the morning after.

If the lights are on, go for it. If not, move on. Kids (and parents) should stick to homes with sure signs that there are treats waiting inside for trick or treaters. Don’t force the Halloween thing on a person or venue that just isn’t in the mood.

Stay classy—you don’t get to grab for more. Be thankful for whatever your host puts in your basket. Say “please” and “thank you.” Adults at parties too, should keep themselves from chugging every drink in sight—fun for everyone is the motto!

Stay supervised. Kids should always be accompanied by adults, and adults should always watch out for each other.

Keep things kid-friendly. Scaring people is pretty much the point of any Halloween scary movie, party, or horror house, but safety is still key. Keep any items that can cause physical harm (wires that people can trip on, sharp objects, etc.) just to make sure everyone plays safe.

Keep it clean. Hygiene is absolutely essential. People would poke fun at a home that gives away kid-sized toothpaste and toothbrushes as treats, sure… but giving away treats that are individually wrapped just ensures everyone’s teeth stay (generally) happy.

Be ready to play. Going all out on your costume might bring out your inner wallflower, but Halloween is the one day of the year you’re actually allowed to play. Get your kids to gun for it, and if you’re the one attending a party, go all out or go home! Have some fun and lighten up.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Making an Inquiry

Planning a big party, scheduling ocular visits to your prospective venues, or scheduling food tastings with possible caterers will have you sending out a slew of inquiries. While customer service will always put you and your requests as top priority, it’s also important to maintain a respectful and gracious tone. Conducting yourself with decorum isn’t just proper—it can also score you a better deal, and have you building better working relationships with people, whether or not your deal pushes through.

Here are a few tips to keep you courteous on the phone or over email.

ONLINE

Set up a professional email account. Get rid of that 15-year old embarrassing address you created as a teenager and move on to something a little more serious. If you’re going to be going through business transactions, you want to be taken seriously!

Start and end appropriately. You may be sending the same inquiry over a bunch of suppliers—make sure each letter is addressed properly, especially if you’re cutting and pasting the same text. Start off with a polite “Hello” and end with a cordial “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.”

Use the signature function. Have all your details included in your email signature so they know how to reach you across all networks. Be wary of putting in personal accounts though! Keep things strictly professional to avoid getting into hairy situations with work contacts.

ON THE PHONE

Get your questions ready. Prepare a list of specifics you need from your supplier to get the conversation going without any unnecessary lags. The more specific you are about what you’re looking for, the more help your customer service representative can offer you.

Have a pen and paper handy. Or if you’re more tech-oriented, open up a new Note on your phone or a sticky on your laptop. You’ll be getting a lot of details over the phone and you’ll want to have a place to record all the information you acquire. Don’t let the person who’s assisting you wait. Having everything ready shows you’re serious about your call.

Stay focused. Try not to leave the person you’re talking to hanging, or be distracted by whatever’s going on around you while you’re on the phone. Dedicate a specific time in your day to make your calls in a quiet space to get things done more efficiently for both you and your supplier.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Debut Do’s and Don’ts

Turning 18 is a huge milestone in any young adult’s life as it marks the transition from adolescence to adulthood. And over generations, one’s 18th birthday has been celebrated. A debut traditionally means someone’s introduction or launch into society—debutante balls have young women being officially welcomed into the world of grown-ups, socializing, higher education, and all ways and forms of adult life.

What started out as a highly formal event, complete with cotillions and ball gowns has, over the years, transitioned to fit into modern times. “Aside from being more expensive, modern debuts are more unique and detail-oriented,” says Marla Miniano, editor-in-chief of Candy magazine (www.candymag.com). “Everything has to be "Instagrammable" or Pinterest-worthy—from the decor to the outfits to the food to the souvenirs. There is also a wealth of inspiration available online today, so modern debutantes have more options to customize their parties to fit their personality.”

If you’re thinking about throwing the party of the year when you turn 18, several factors need to be taken into consideration so that not just your event, but also the long and arduous planning process turns out just right.

“Your theme and budget should always be compatible. Compromise with a simpler theme if your budget is a bit tight,” advises Marla. “A simple theme (like an all-white bash, or a DIY crafty party) executed well is definitely better than a grand, ambitious theme that just ends up looking tacky because you're running on limited funds.”

“And just like in weddings, seating arrangements and table assignments are super important. Don't place your rowdy guy friends next to your lola's amigas, and make sure the ‘VIPs’ are seated near the front,” she adds.

One other factor that 17-turning-18-year olds need to consider is that their parents play a big role in creating the event. “Your parents are more likely to let you run the show if you can prove to them that you know what you're doing. Do your research in advance (pegs, cost, alternatives), and show them that you're willing to do the heavy lifting. Don't just dictate what you want, let them do all the work, AND have them pay for everything!”

Turning 18 is a big rite of passage, and marking it with a grand party is no mean feat. But with the proper planning, time, care and attention to detail, you can turn this milestone into one you’ll love to look back on in the future. Remember, you’ll only be this young, and wild, and free once—celebrate it the best way you can!

Special thanks to Candy magazine. Candy includes a free debut special along with its August 2014 issue! Click on to www.candymag.com for more details. Candy is available in all leading bookstores and newsstands.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Planning tips for the Millennial Bride

Today’s engaged couples, mostly born in the 80s and 90s, are a long way from the traditional brides and grooms from years ago. Everything from hipster-themed weddings and artisanal giveaways, to tech-inspired games at the reception and impeccably produced pre-wedding videos are now part of the millennial wedding framework that many young brides subscribe to. With Pinterest boards replacing three-ring wedding binders, Spotify playlists becoming a viable alternative to hiring a DJ, and even off-the-cuff color palettes taking the place of the typical white wedding gown, millennials have a myriad of ways to define their weddings as unique to them and to their generation.

Stay in touch with the trends and score savvy points for your wedding planning with these pro-active tips that every millennial bride can use.

Maximize social media.
Get on your gadgets and create a Facebook event to keep your guests, family and friends updated from the get-go. It can save you the trouble of creating save-the-dates if you’re on a time crunch and a budget, and it can also save you the hassle of recounting your plans over and over again. Not only will a consolidated group of people all subscribed to your feed help you keep a sharp eye on your guest count, it allows you to reach people you’re not normally in touch with at the click of a mouse.

Pull in favors.
These days, the chances that you know someone who’s got a pretty good handle on Wordpress, or owns a small graphic or web design firm are big. Instead of paying a truckload of money to register at an official wedding website, survey your circle of friends. Your Apple genius can set up your site, someone who’s been tinkering with Photoshop since your college days can probably help you create an invitation mock-up, and your fiance’s brother who’s got that collection of GoPros and vintage cameras may be willing to give you a pre-nuptial shoot, pro bono.

Create an online registry.
It used to be that the only shopping option you could offer your guests was a swing at a posh department store. These days, the world is your oyster. Digital registries allow international guests to ship you gifts via brands not available locally, or even through digital superstores such as Amazon.com. Some sites even allow guests to make a monetary donation to your honeymoon fund (all in a stylishly classy website).

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Be a Good Boss

People can spend years in the workforce climbing up the corporate ladder or building up their portfolios so they can one day head their own company. That said, reaching a top tier position or finally having enough say in a business to head a group of people is no mean feat. Being the boss, whether that means having an executive VP position in a multinational or taking charge of your own work hours and deliverables as a self-employed freelancer, involves much responsibility. It means being able to handle people, work concerns and yourself with empathy, enthusiasm and drive—which can be a lot to juggle.

Keep your head above water and while keeping the best interests of your people and workplace in mind by staying true to these tenets.

Prioritizes accountability.
Own your mistakes and value people who take responsibility for their missteps. In any workplace, there is much room for error no matter how much commitment and hard work goes into a certain project, process or plan. A lot can be said for people who are willing to admit to their mistakes and are quick enough to think up ways to rectify imbalances. In the long run, these are coworkers you’d like to keep on board—acknowledge them and make sure they know that their accountability is valued.

Offers solutions.
Whether you’re dealing with a list of suppliers or speaking to 10 different clients at a time, businesses often pose problems or issues to those in the boss’s chair. Being a good boss means being able to come up with smart solutions that can shift a negative situation into something more positive. This trait offers leadership that people under you can take inspiration from, boosting their morale and encouraging innovative thinking.

Makes smart decisions.
Running a business involves making many crucial choices on a day-to-day basis. Being able to head an entire company or run your own ship means having that killer instinct that leads you down the right path. Apart from trusting their gut, being a good boss bases these intelligent decisions on experience—it’s about honing and remembering the lessons from the past in order to make wiser decisions for the future.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Seaside Etiquette

It’s that time of the year again—families and friends troop over to the water to take a refreshing break from the heat of the sun. Whether you’re in for a diving adventure, tanning by the shore, or even hanging out by the pools, it’s almost impossible not to run into crowds this summer season. While having a bunch of strangers taking over your personal space can be disturbing, especially when your aim is to de-stress and relax, keep in mind that everyone’s out in the water to enjoy their own time in the sun.

Keep the sounds down.
It’s tempting to blast your speakers at maximum when you’re chilling poolside—but if everyone had the same idea and different tastes in music, your peaceful day by the water will just result in pure chaos. Tone down your music to a respectable level; and have someone watch over the kids so that they can be reigned in when their noise levels become too rowdy.

Respect dress codes.
You might be shy about bearing your bikini bottoms but haven’t got a pair of board shorts to cover up—but it’s a must to follow any venue’s dress restrictions to keep yourself safe. Baggy clothes that aren’t meant for the water can weigh you down and put you in danger. Invest in appropriate swim attire and embrace the sensation of sun on your skin!

Mind your trash.
If you’re taking out a bag of chips or a pack of beer to the sand, it’s important to bring all your leftovers back with you. The appeal of any beach isn’t just in the water; it’s also in the cleanliness of the surroundings. Protect the reefs from clutter and the sands from garbage and litter by packing with you a handy trash bag in your picnic basket or in your waterproof totes. It’s the least you can do to help maintain the beach setting you’ve grown to love and enjoy.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Holy Week Do’s

Being a primarily Roman Catholic country, the month of April brings with it many Holy Week traditions that Filipinos participate in, regardless of religion. Along with the many fiestas that mark the celebration of Easter come solemn ceremonies that have become part and parcel of many a town or family’s yearly devotion. Not only do these holy days commemorate many a religious milestone, for the most part, they also mark the full shift into summer, signaling the transition from the busy month of March to a season of exploration, relaxation and creating more space for yourself.

Whatever your holy week tradition may be, participating in events such as Easter Vigil or the Way of the Cross necessitates some etiquette in church. Remember to be respectful and reverential to traditions, both familiar and not, during this time of year.

Follow the dress code.
Though the weather may be calling for bikini tops and leg-baring cut-offs, paying your parish a visit will require you covering up some skin. Dress decently and keep your limbs covered up. Bring a cardigan that you can layer over your sleeveless top or a scarf that you can wrap around bare shoulders.

Stay quiet.
Whether you’re attending mass or walking through the Stations of the Cross, being in a church equals moving from the outside into a more meditative state. Resist the urge to engage in full on chatter with those you’re with, and always make sure that your cell phone is on silent or turned off. A quiet space lends itself well to prayer and contemplation and preventing any disturbances from happening is a sign of deep respect.

Silently participate.
A Catholic ceremony does require active participation of its congregation, with prayers, song and even kneeling, standing up and sitting. If you are an active participant, move along with the missal and listen to the sermon. If you are a visitor and happen to chance upon a mass or service, it is polite to stand along with the rest of the crowd and simply sit when everyone around proceeds to kneel. Reserve any conversations for after the mass, of course, so you may stay solemn along with the rest of the congregation.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Expo Etiquette

A huge part of planning a wedding, or any celebration, is making the rounds at fairs and expositions. Not only do these events bring you better deals and big discounts, they also expose you to a wide array of suppliers that cater to every need, from food to photography, video to bridal wear, makeup to giveaways. Brides with detailed checklists, who know exactly what they’re looking for are able to haggle for great prices, while couples who are starting from scratch and haven’t the faintest idea about how to plan a wedding can come out of an expo with a better grasp on how to hold their event.

Regardless of your approach, it’s best to attend expos with an open mind. These fairs draw in large crowds and can be difficult to navigate through. As with any event that draws in many people, participating also means making sure you’ve got your etiquette intact so you, and all the other couples in attendance, have a pleasant and fruitful expo experience.

Create a navigation plan.
Stepping into a wedding fair without figuring a path you want to take can leave you stumped and standing in the middle of a busy aisle. If you’ve got targeted suppliers on your list, head first to them and browse through other booths when you’ve still got time—this way, you don’t interrupt the flow of traffic. If you’re more the type of couple who would rather window-shop, at least snake your way through the fair in an organized manner so you keep moving efficiently.

Wait your turn.
With the massive influx of couples, wedding planners, and even future in-laws coming in at a fair, people manning the booths may be juggling a lot of requests and inquiries. Exercise patience and respect those who come in before you as common courtesy. If the line looks like too much of a wait, leave your business card at the fish bowl and tell whoever’s in charge that you’ll be back after a few minutes—they will surely move you up on the priority list once you return.

List your concerns.
Taking a directed approach to visiting a wedding fair can help you maximize your visit. Whether or not you’ve got specific suppliers in mind, it helps to come with a list of questions you need answered. Creating a list of inquiries can help you form a better idea about the event you want to plan, and can also move things right along when you’re speaking to a representative or supplier. Asking intelligent questions won’t just benefit you, it’ll also help booth owners give you the information you need in a much quicker, more hassle-free way.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Modern Dating

The month of hearts is upon us and whether you’re scheduling a surprise with the wife, driving out of town with your significant other, or are taking your boyfriend to your prom, it’s important to keep your heart and mind open. No matter how comfortable you are with your long-term partner, it’s a wonderful practice to make your date—both the person and the event—extra special. After all, Valentine’s Day is approaching and there’s no better time to be more gallant, more considerate, and more adventurous than February.

Regardless of who you’re spending your Valentine’s Day with—a group of single girlfriends, your fiancé, or the whole family, The Blue Leaf wishes you a happy month of love!

When the mood strikes, go for it.
If you’re going back and forth about asking that girl out, or are hesitating whether it’s the right time to ask the busy husband if he’d like to take a leave next Friday, just do it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with letting a certain mood or instinct rule your decision. It is more than likely you will get a yes from your partner—all the better for your Valentine’s Day celebration. And if your plans aren’t as agreeable as you thought they would be, take things lightly and suggest an alternative or ask your partner what they would like to do. Dating involves communication and exchanges, after all.

Explore the unexplored.
Whether this means trying out a restaurant you’ve always been too busy to explore, having a conversation about topics you previously would have considered taboo, or even making a slightly embarrassing confession to your girl friends about who you would like to spend Hearts Day with, take this opportunity to go a step further with your heart.

Keep with the traditions, if it feels right.
There’s no need to go out of your way to hold the door open for someone if it feels unnatural to you. Sure, there is always a certain charm that will come with chivalry, but if anything is too contrived or put on—especially on Valentine’s Day then you may end up ruining the mood. Be aware of the traditions that come up with going on a full-fledged date, and with this knowledge of convention and of what works in today’s setting, be willing to break the rules too. As long as respect rules between both parties (or everyone, in the case of a group date or a family or friends celebration), then all is well.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Soothe Your Spirit

2013 has been a particularly challenging year for most people—not just because of the storms and natural disasters that ran through the country, but also with personal struggles that everyone had to endure and weather. Now that we welcome a New Year, it is time to take stock of what has been and how we can approach the next 12 months. After coming through hardships, it is always good to approach ourselves and our relationships with compassion and kindness so that everybody can celebrate the gift of healing together as a new year rolls on in.

Here are some ways to nurture your soul and the spirits of those you love so that 2014 can truly be a year that is lived with grace, tranquility and strength!

Happy New Year!

Travel.
Whether it’s taking a solo excursion on the weekends, riding out on your bike amidst a favorite trail or taking a walk by the stream in a province you grow up in, having some time to reflect and rejuvenate can boost your spirits no matter what you’re going through. Going out of town or even out of the country with people you love can put your relationships to a test, but can also award you with many memories that you can look back on when times get tough.

Stay in.
Going outwards is a great way to tune into yourself, but allowing yourself to nest and enjoy the great indoors, in turn, is also a wonderful way to look inwards. Invite some friends over for a relaxing night at home. Instead of donning the fancy ensembles you wore over the holidays, or cooking up a complicated meal, relax instead in your most comfortable clothes, have a hearty meal in and get the evening started with conversations that allow you to connect with your inner self and with others too.

Get moving.
One way to access our inner selves is to use our physical bodies. Feeling good physically is a wonderful way to get your mind happy too. Find a way to introduce a hop and a skip to your usual routine. Take up a group exercise class with your best friend, join in on the fun when taking the kids to swimming class, or start your day with some sun salutations if you need some quiet time, both inside and out.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

The Spirit of Giving, The Spirit of Christmas

It’s been a month since typhoon Yolanda hit the Philippines, and although there is widespread news about relief efforts not reaching those who need help the most, people continue to rally behind the victims and their families, consistently coming up with creative ways to offer assistance. In a country that boasts of the “longest” Christmas season, it has now become tradition for back to back parties to take place as early as the start of the month. This year has become an exception though—with many companies and even families relegating funds to victims instead of to celebration, people have taken a more somber tone towards the holiday season.

While it’s important to stay aware and conscious of those in need, it is also essential to not forget the celebratory spirit of the season. We can always come together to rejoice in the season and still work towards a cause. Here are ways that you can help while keeping the Christmas season close to your heart.

Hold an art auction.
Whether you’ve got a wide collection of art that can rake up a high price in the market, or would like to go low profile and ask college students to donate a few plates to raise money, using art not just as a medium of expression but also as a way to help sparks minds and hearts. You can even do a kiddie art auction and have kids draw up holiday-themed paintings that stores, collectors, neighbors, moms and friends can all invest in (no matter what the price!).

Go online.
It doesn’t take a lot of effort to log onto the Internet and find a site that you can assist you in sending monetary help (and well wishes) through. Everything from generous donation plans by Unicef(https://donate.unicef.ph/campaign/24/typhoon-yolanda) to specific Instagram campaigns can help spur awareness and give you an opportunity to give. Make sure you do your due diligence before contributing any amount to this cause however—stick to reputable institutions to ensure that your help goes to those in need. Even mailing out links to these sites to friends and family abroad can help you spread the holiday spirit.

Up your Christmas shopping power.
It’s the season of malls buzzing and people doing their last minute Christmas shopping. Stick to stores that donate a portion of their profits to the victims of typhoon Yolanda. Hit two birds with one stone by ticking names off your To Do list, and at the same time, giving to those in need. Showing support to establishments that come up with promotions such as this help push the cause and keep you within your holiday budget (shopping + donation all in one!) as well.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Coffee Break

The last decade or so has been witness to a big boom in the coffee scene here in the country. With local and foreign brands popping up from one street corner to the next, stopping by a coffee shop to grab a latte or a frappucino in the middle of the day has become a part of people’s daily routines. Cafes have been the standard hangout for many—either to spend time working remotely, to hang out with friends after dinner, or even to spend a few minutes getting a cup of joe before your morning workout.

With so many coffee shops and coffee drinkers around, people have had many a good (and disgruntled!) experience at their favorite place. Etiquette comes into play even as you sit down to relax with a cup of coffee. The next time you go get your red cup Christmas drink at Starbucks, or drive over to your neighborhood café, remember these tips to keep your baristas and your fellow coffee fans happy..

Don’t be a mooch.
WiFi is typically given free at most establishments—that doesn’t mean you have license to sit in the same spot for six hours, nursing your one cup of coffee for the entire duration of your stay. Sure, cafes are built to keep customers in, but show some respect to your fave place by spreading out your orders. Have a sandwich to go with your drink, or consider getting out of the WiFi zone if you’ve been there for over two hours.

Know what you want.
Designer coffee gives people the ability to customize their drinks according to very specific requirements. It takes over a minute these days to give a special order—make sure it’s what you want so you don’t change your mind as the barista hands you over the drink. You’ll end up disrupting the whole flow, and leaving other people in line upset.

Respect other people’s listening space.
Coffee shops offer customers ambient noise and music that is toned down and easy to work with—that’s why so many law students reviewing for the bar like to hang out in cafes. Don’t give other customers a hard time by talking loudly on your cell phone while inside the premises—if you can’t miss a call, step outside and give others an uninterrupted coffee shop experience. If you’re hanging out watching a move on your laptop or listening to music, remember to plug those headphones in.

Pick up your order.
You might be engaged in conversation with a friend and end up not hearing your name being called out by the barista. If you haven’t gotten your coffee yet, stay alert and on your toes. Having a coffee order sit by the pick-up counter isn’t only confusing to other people waiting around for their drinks, it’s also a headache for baristas to deal with so much coffee traffic. Plus, you wouldn’t want to sit with a cooled down cup of “hot” mocha, would you?

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

The Value of Time

Filipinos have earned the reputation of arriving late—so much so that “Filipino time” has become the rule rather than the exception. While traffic jams, unexpected flooding and freak accidents on the road have become part of our daily commutes, using traffic trouble as an excuse shouldn’t be acceptable. Arriving on time is a sign of respect to whoever you are on your way to see, whether you’re attending a business meeting, going to lunch with a friend, or off to a parent teacher conference.

Leaving at a responsibly early time will give you enough leeway, and is also the best way to reach your destination without feeling rushed or stressed out. That said, exceptions are still made and proper etiquette does allow a grace period for late arrivals.

Check out this time guide to see what’s considered polite (and not), whether you’re on your way out or waiting for someone to arrive. And remember, technology is there to serve us—if you know you’re running late, text ahead of time.

Dinner parties.
You want to get there a little past call time, only because it is considered rude to arrive too early at a party—you want to make sure the host has everything sorted out in terms of prep before you walk in. 15 to 30 minutes late is acceptable, but anything more is not. You don’t want the other guests to go hungry because you haven’t arrived.

Restaurant reservations.
Five minutes tops—the restaurant will be holding your table and you don’t want whomever you’re meeting to be sitting there alone.

The movies.
Aim to get to the cinemas at least when the previews are being screened. Not only does it disrupt everyone’s attention when you walk in during opening credits, you’ll also be missing a chunk of the movie. ** Same goes if you’re attending a sporting event or going to the theater.

Big conferences or work events.
10 to 15 minutes is acceptable, especially in events where people come and go in droves and all that’s needed of you is to register at reception. Avoiding too big of a delay, however, will ensure that you don’t miss any of the important parts of the program.

A wedding.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. You don’t want to be walking in the ceremony a few seconds before the bride does. It is only polite and respectful to come in and allow yourself to settle before such an important ceremony starts.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Kids with Manners

There are a plethora of articles, surveys and studies that talk about how kids these days are not growing up with the same values that our grandparents and parents espoused. While it can be argued that living in the age of social media, information technology, and gadgets that evolve in the blink of an eye have changed our value systems as a whole, there are certain facets of propriety that remain the same, no matter what.

Dealing with kids and teaching them the very same manners that you grew up with as a child can be tough, but that doesn’t mean that you should ever back down from the challenge of raising children that know and practice respect by heart. Here are a few quick tips that can help any new parent with their kids, and give second- and third-time parents a refresher on keeping the little (and not so little) ones in check.

Every request should begin with a “Please.”
It’s the magic word, after all. Parents need to practice this around the house too—kids, after all, mimic what they see and hear from the role models they find in their own family.

Wait until you are spoken to.
Kids, used to being the center of attention and underneath the spotlight at all times, can tend to barge into adult conversations all the time. Teach your kids that they should wait ‘til it’s their turn before speaking, unless of course there’s an emergency that needs attending to. Make it clear what you consider and don’t consider as an emergency situation!

Ask when you don’t understand something.
This will take kids many steps forward, whether they’re in school or toying with an appliance in the house that they’re not sure they’re allowed to tinker with or not.

Stay positive always.
Teach your kids that while everyone has negative thoughts, they don’t necessarily have to be shared with everyone and at all times. If you need to comment about someone, say something positive instead. Compliments cost nothing and make someone’s day better.

Say “Thank You.”
Even the littlest things merit a “thanks.” When your kid is over at his friend’s house for a play date, teach him to say thanks to the parents. When your daughter’s godmother gives her a gift for no reason, teach her to say thank you. Saying thanks to everyone, especially the household help, is a trait that will benefit your child and everyone he encounters for the rest of his life.

Accept favors graciously.
Kids sometimes commit to doing favors for parents or elders, but do them grudgingly. Teach your kids the value of being gracious, even when being told to do something. It’ll teach them to open their hearts and their minds to helping others and seeing the value in that act in itself.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Workout Well

People go to the gym or their various workout studios for different reasons. Whether it’s to unwind at the end of a busy day at the office, to find some calm and peace of mind away from all the noise at home, or to really just find a place to concentrate on getting your body tight and toned, your heart pumping, and your muscles working. Whatever your reasons for visiting the gym may be, it’s inevitable that you will be running into people—gym instructors, teachers, desk attendants and fellow students all share that same workout space with you.

Keeping everyone happy while on their individual roads to wellness is something that every student should adhere to, regardless of their fitness goals. Take these considerations in mind the next time you make it to your gym—exercising fitness etiquette will benefit everyone, after all.free time.

Stay Clean.
With people in such close quarters with each other, sweating it out, staying clean and fresh even before hitting the weights or going on the treadmill is absolutely important. Take a quick shower if you’ve been out under the sun all day prior to your workout, and pack on the anti-perspirant as well. Avoiding displeasing body odor is just common courtesy to those around you.

Avoid Strong Scents.
You may have showered and you may be powder fresh, but spritzing on cologne or perfume before a workout is also a no-no. You may think that your signature scent is pleasant, but in a confined space, it could come off as disconcerting to those around you. Save your fragrance for after your workout, when you step out of the gym.

Go Silent.
As with any space where people need to be focused and concentrating, it’s advisable to turn your cell phones to silent. Hearing a text come in the middle of a workout or even standing next to someone taking a work call while you’re busy doing crunches can be extremely distracting and takes away from the sometimes-meditative experience of getting physical.

Read the Rules.
Every place has its own set of guidelines when it comes to working out. Some classes are strict about people coming in on time, while other studios have an open door policy that allows people to walk in as they please. Wherever you go, familiarize yourself with how things work from everything to studio hours to paying for memberships, which facilities you can use to what promos you can avail of.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Shop Talk

One of the musts that come with keeping a house, whether you’ve got a fully functioning four-bedroom or a simple studio apartment, is keeping your pantry, your refrigerator and your supply closets well stocked. Regardless of how often you make that essential trip to the supermarket, it’s important to keep to the rules of etiquette. After all, everyone’s got shopping lists to get through and it’ll help to stick within the rules, to help all shoppers move smoothly through their To Do’s!

Respect everyone’s space.
Supermarket aisles don’t exactly provide the widest, freest space for shoppers. It might take some delicate maneuvering to ensure that your cart isn’t blocking an entire aisle and causing cart traffic. Be mindful of where you park your things, try not to dominate any one area so that the flow of people is regulated, and you don’t get into a jam with fellow customers.

Watch over the kids.
Most kids love a trip to the grocery store. There’s just so much for them to see, a lot of space to run around with, candy to pull off the shelves, and carts to sit and speed on. As a general rule, parents should keep their eyes on their tots at all times—more than that, however, moms and dads should also make sure their kids sit well-behaved and don’t cause a ruckus, disturbing the supermarket peace. If you see a rowdy bunch of kids running past you though, try to be as understanding and patient as possible—chances are those kids are stressing out their mother more than you.

Don’t be a lazy returner.
It happens all the time. Something catches your eye—a pint of ice cream or a 10-pack box of assorted cereal. You go about your own business, roaming the aisles and 30 minutes later you decide you don’t want that cereal anymore. Do you suffer through the trip back to where you started or do you shelf your cereal on the wrong aisle instead? Give the grocery store employees a break and help keep things in their proper place. You owe them that.

Stay patient at the register.
Don’t heave and ho and tap your feet when the person in front of you is taking forever—unfortunately for you, he got there first and deserves the spot, no matter how long he takes. If it’s the person at the cash register taking forever ringing you up, try to be as diplomatic as possible. Nobody likes a dramatic scene at a place as mundane as the supermarket.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Taking a Breather

With the middle of the year fast approaching, it’s easy to find yourself being taken over by the stress of everyday life. Every once in a while, it becomes a good idea to allow yourself to let go, relax, and carve out some time in your schedule for a little pampering. Going to the spa is a wonderful way to treat yourself—not only does it afford you some precious Me Time, it also provides a temporary escape from the outside world.

With so many people retreating into their own private respites, it becomes increasingly important to be aware of the dos and don’ts of spa etiquette. Being mindful of your actions allows others to enjoy their experience and creates a relaxing atmosphere that is conducive for the relaxation that everyone seeks to find at a spa.

Stay comfortable.
While some women don’t mind stripping down to the bare essentials while walking around the locker rooms or hanging out at the lounge, there’s no hard and fast rule about disrobing. The most important rule is that you are comfortable in your own skin—whether that means wearing a bikini in the steam room or keeping your robe on at all times outside of the massage area. If stripping down feels awkward even during your treatment, consider getting a Thai or Shiatsu massage, which will have your body covered all throughout.

Make an appointment.
Calling in advance allows spas to prep your room and everything else that comes with the treatment you’re seeking. Speaking to reception also enables you to ask about prices, promotions, and packages ahead of time. It also allows them to inform you about add-ons such as extra time in the sauna, or being able to take a dip in the Jacuzzi before your body scrub or massage. The relaxation you find when going to a spa starts as soon as you walk through the door—and knowing that everything has been set for you in advance can help create a seamless an experience as possible.

Be polite.
Some facialists or technicians are instructed to sell you spa-sponsored products during your treatment. While a sales pitch can be distracting especially when you’re in the mood to remove yourself from the outside world, it’s important to be clear with your intention and then move on. Just inform your technician that you aren’t interested, or would rather hear about promotions after they provide you their service and they should easily back off. If they persist, approach the manager before you step out and express your disappointment over what happened.

Stay quiet.
There is nothing more off-putting than unnecessary noise at a spa. Keeping your cell phone in silent mode (no vibrating!) is a must. And when heading to relax with a group of friends, make sure to keep your voices toned down and hushed as well.

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information

Weighing In on Weight

Physical appearance can be a touchy subject across the board. Whether you’re out to compliment someone on the success of her weight loss journey, or are eager to help someone out by advising him to head over to your personal trainer for a physical assessment, choosing the right words and the right moment to say them (or even the right time to just stay quiet) is essential. Although you may be coming from a place of sincere concern, commentary on one’s appearance can easily rub one person the wrong way, or be accepted as constructive criticism by another.

Before getting yourself involved in a tricky situation, read up on these short tips to make sure you always tread the line carefully.

The latest fad diet.
If you’re hooked on one cleanse after another, or are keen to speak about the wonderful effects that Paleo or Cohen has done for your body, make sure that you talk only about yourself and don’t egg someone on to join the bandwagon too. Unless you are positive that your friend or relative is actually looking for some advice, stick to your own truth instead of laying down what works for you on someone else. Remember that each individual is unique and what is effective for one body can have ill effects on another.

When someone asks…
Women are notorious for asking their husbands, boyfriends or even friends if a certain dress makes them look “fat.” There really is no right answer to this question, although one big no-no could be out and out, answering “yes.” Doing it as a joke can leave your friend’s ego, heart and mind scarred; saying it bluntly will be as damaging too, even if she asked for it. If you feel like an outfit isn’t doing your friend any favors, talk specifics—tell her that she would do better with a different cut because that would accentuate her legs or her tiny waist, rather than just leaving her with a one-word answer.

Assuming thin is in.
Just because most of what’s seen on TV, billboards and media highlights skinny as beautiful, does not mean that those who are preternaturally lithe love everything about the way they look. Telling that person that “they’re too skinny” can be patronizing when you mean it as a compliment, and can also be met as an insult when that person is trying to put on some weight. Instead of commenting on a person’s body type, why not compliment them instead on what you love about the way they look?

The Blue Leaf is a great place to host parties, whether you're looking to entertain corporate clients or throw a get-together for friends and family. We can help you forge new bonds and make new memories, no matter what the occasion. For inquiries, call The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion at 898-BLUE or visit mckinley.theblueleaf.com.ph for more information