It’s the beginning of the year… New Years Resolutions abound and one thing’s for sure,  98% of you folks have at least one of the following on your list (my list is endless..) .

NEED TO GIVE UP CHOCOLATE/ COFFEE/ CARBS

NEED TO LIVE STRONG AND LIVE HEALTHY

NEED TO HAVE MORE… (you fill in the blanks )

NEED TO LOSE WEIGHT BEFORE I LOSE MY MIND…. etc etc.. I will stop here  for fear of divulging too many of my insecurities on said blog post!

So despite my daily Asthanga practice whilst on holiday I still managed to pack on the extra XXX ounces pounds kilos tons sob sob.

So not only am I hitting the treadmill harder than ever before, I decided that I also need to kick start my New Year with a well deserved cleanse and hunted down my favourite Punch Detox, gal pals, Ann and Angela.

This weeks GLAMAMAMA MONDAYS  gets juicy with  Ann Cha and Angela Cheng Matsuzawa.

Ann Cha and Angela Cheng Matsuzawa (photo: HKTATLER) 

GR: How did Punch Detox come about?

Ann: After having children, we were both desperate for a healthy jumpstart. We joined a two-week intensive detox and yoga program and were thrilled by how amazing we looked and felt afterwards. We became literally obsessed by the subject and enrolled in nutrition classes at HKU, devoured books, checked out documentaries such as “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”,  consulted with detox experts and experimented on our own bodies and close friends’.

Angela: We then held our own 10-day program including yoga (Thank you Leah Kim www.leahkim.com ) and pilates (Thank you Tracy So) and while people loved it, we knew that the 3-day juice cleanse component was exactly what HK people with busy schedules and high standards were looking for. We got our banker, yoga teacher and doctor friends to try, and over 200 cleanses later, Punch Detox was born.

Angela with Leah Kim

GR:  How long have you known each other? How has it been working with your friend? Pray tell all the good, bad and the juicy!! What are your roles?

A&A united on Oxfam Trailwalker

Ann: We’ve known each other since we were 16! It’s been amazing to create something with someone whom you trust and share common objectives and goals. We both had diverse life experiences and have also shared many experiences together (in a book club together, kids’ playdates and school committees together, did the Oxfam Trailwalker together. When you’ve limped 100km next to someone, you know what they’re really like deep down inside). When we started this, we were in a similar stage in life. It just really worked out perfectly.

Angela with her husband Masaaki and their twin boys

Ann with her husband Ben, and their 3 children

Angela: If I remember correctly I met Ann through her ex-boyfriend. haha. And funny enough, her husband stood me up on a blind date ages ago as well. Small world! We balance each other out I think. I’m more outgoing, talk more…I have this odd sense of humor. She’s more serious and stable. I love my vino…(especially vintages from my own birthday) and Ann – doesn’t really drink anything except for juice and water. We both love our arugula and don’t eat that much meat though….that’s the common ground.

Ann sailing 

Ann: Definitely. And because of our different backgrounds, I focus more on the juice development and Angela looks at the marketing side of things – the concepts, the ideas etc. Of course, we come together to work on branding and what not. In fact our name is a good example of how we work. Angela came up with Punch Detox. And I came up with our tagline – The Punch You Know You Need.

We also motivate each other. I don’t think I’d be able to start a business all by myself at this stage in life. When I get an email from Angela late at night, I think, “Oh no. if she’s working, I’d better work too!”

Angela:  Balance – yes.  It’s rare when we are both crazy, wanting to conquer the world, overly pessimistic and overly positive.  Between the 2 of us – we can get a good balance.

Angela finds her balance on the mat

GR:  In order to make Punch Detox a viable business what steps did you have to take?

Ann: We actually did not intend to make Punch Detox into a business at all! We just did this for ourselves and friends. Learning more about nutrition is great for raising healthy kids.  Remember, we were obsessed with this, so we got certified at Hong Kong U for Nutrition, we developed all kinds of formula, we drank all kinds of potions and made close friends and family taste different concoctions over a day, 3 days, 6 days etc.  We were religious about getting feedback and tweaking everything about our program to make it as perfect as possible. And it was not until we started getting requests from people whom we did not know at all (we couldn’t even trace where they got our emails from) that we knew we had to make this official.

It took us one whole year to find our kitchen space. We had no idea how hard it would be to get a space that would fit all the licensing requirements for a food factory. I remember going from one industrial building to another when I was 9 months pregnant with child #3–from Chai Wan, to Kwun Tong, to Wong Chug Hang, and finally, Aberdeen–and the agent had to ask me if I was OK after every stop. At one point, I wanted to give up and just open a cafe and do all production from there (cafe licenses are a lot less stringent)…

Angela: But you know Ann… she never does anything half-assed. So 2 hours after her hormonal breakdown, she got a proper kitchen consultant working for us. About 8 months after that, we got ourselves a fully licensed kitchen. We are very proud of that.

GR: What were the biggest challenges to your business?

Ann: Truthfully—for 2 years, our challenge was fulfilling demand. We have chosen to use the world’s best juice press, but it also happens to the most inefficient juice extraction process imaginable. So we’ve unfortunately had to turn away quite a few people.

Angela: Ah yes…the Norwalk.

Once we set up our juice kitchen and trained up the staff, we thought we would have more time. Maybe it’s our business school training, [Ann has an MBA from Columbia Business School and Angela an MBA from Harvard Business School] we were our biggest challenge. More time spent on Punch, less time spent on our family. So it’s up to us to find the balance between expanding Punch Detox at the right pace that’s good for us, our family and our fans.

Ann with Joe Cross

GR: At what point in your business did you realise that you had a winning formula?

Angela: Thanks Sharie for the compliment! We just love that all these new people are trying us out and our existing customers come back regularly to detox or order the Punches to supplement their daily regimens. It’s really flattering.

Punch Detox for us is not about building a brand or a business; it’s really about the customers. We knew that we had something good going on when some of our clients stop needing to take medication after our cleanse, others can skip their daily lattes in the morning, some get compliments on their complexion (in person and even on Skype) and some just keep coming back with their friends, husbands, moms and family.

Ann: Ben and I went to this dinner and 12 out of the 12 people at the dinner table have been “Punched.” That was very exciting.

It’s hard to sell not eating for 3 days. But when someone you know rave about how Punch Detox gave them a feeling of being clean and they use that feeling to jumpstart a better lifestyle – that’s priceless.

Angela also shares a love of sailing

GR:  You both have families and young children, so how do you balance your time?

Ann: Honestly, it has not been easy. I feel like I’ve had to give up all “me” time during the past couple of years. Juggling three kids under the age of 4, a husband, a household and a new business was not a walk in the park. There have been points when I wanted to give up, but it’s really the positive feedback that we get from customers that keeps me going. I get so pumped up when I know that our juices are benefiting people in so many ways. Fortunately, we are now at a stage where things are beginning to run quite smoothly, so work has been quite flexible. I usually work when the kids are at school or late at night when my hubby is out of town.

Angela: Yes – There’s Ann and there’s Crazy Ann. Sometimes she wants to quit and other times she wants to open up in Thailand and have another kid. But isn’t that why it’s so fun?

We are the definition of “flexi hours,”  but that also just means that we sleep less.

Angela with her twins 

GR: Do you think its possible for women/ moms to have it all? Family, work, life and love? Is it different for you versus your moms?

Angela: My mother had me when she was 24. I had my twins when I was 33. So yeah, it’s harder for us. We may have more educational degrees but our “adult” lives also started later than our parents, so I feel that we have to pack in more at the same time. Having said that, I am a believer that a good mom is a happy mom, a good wife is a happy wife. So prioritize your life in a way that makes you happy.

Ann: My mom, all 5 of her sisters, and my mother in law have been my role models. They’ve worked all their lives and have managed to raise amazing families. It is possible for women to have it all, but it requires a job that allows for flexibility and a supportive husband and family. Ben’s really proud that I’m the “juice lady,” and my kids understand when I tell them “Mommy has to go juicing today.”

Ann’s son Casper loves Citrus Punch

GR: Have you always been health conscious? Was it difficult for you to jump of the healthy lifestyle bandwagon in a city with so much temptation?

Angela: No. I still have nightmares about eating WhiteCastle burgers in KoreaTown with Masaaki in New York. Scary. The yoga and detox program after the kids really changed the way I looked at food. To maintain good health, you really need to be responsible about what you put into your body. Sure, everyone makes an exception every now and then, but it’s what you do most of the time that matters.

Ann: I’ve always been into food and cooking, so I’ve been pretty in tune with nutrition since I was young. I do have a sweet tooth though. But my motto is “Everything in moderation.”

Ann at her graduation from the Institute of Culinary Education (NY)

GR: Has it been difficult to source the fruits and vegetables for your juices in HK? 

Our juices are only as good as our ingredients. So we really care about what arrives at our kitchen. It has been difficult to get good quality local and organic produce in HK for all our ingredients, so inevitably, we have to order from Europe, Australia, New Zealand and America as well. We’ve tried local restaurant suppliers and farmers markets, but recently, we collaborated with Providence Family Farms, the only supplier of USDA, EU and JAS certified organic produce in the region that also delivers. Their produce gets to our kitchen fresh from the farm within 3 days…and they are absolutely beautiful. So beautiful, our staff refused to cut into them at first!

GR: What’s the difference between a juice press and a juicer?

Ann: You know when you order a fresh apple juice and by the time it reaches your hands, the juice is brown? Well, that juice was most probably extracted from a juice extractor with a centrifugal drum (i.e., not a juice press). A juice extractor cuts up the fruit or vegetable and spins it at high speed to separate the juice from the pulp. This process produces heat and oxidation, which means the nutrients (enzymes, vitamins and minerals) can be destroyed, and the juices cannot last more than twenty minutes. With a juice press, we put our fruit and veg into filter bags and put them into a hydraulic press to slowly squeeze out every drop of juice. The quality of the juice produced is superior in taste, look and nutritional value, and the slow process prevents oxygen from getting into the juice, so they stay fresh up to a week.

Angela: That’s why we say our juices are “living”, because the enzymes and nutrients are really alive.

GR: How many bottles do you churn out per detox?

Angela: Ah…Let’s just say that we have gone through at least 40,000 partially recycled PET bottles. Our new bottles will be made from 100% recycled PET.

GR:  Most memorable testimonials you have ever received?

Angela: We get a lot of feedback from our clients.  Some are funny and immediate, like “Couples who juice together stay together!”  “The kick in the Citrus punch really tickles my balls.”

Others write us a few days or a week after their cleanse finishes and most of those are about how the cleanse helped them curb their bad eating habits.  My favorite is the one about “feeling invincible in front of a table mini hot dogs at a kid’s party” and another one about how Saturday free tastings at City Super “had ZERO effect on [her]” despite “the [aroma of food cooking linger[ing] in the air”  her words: “I wasn’t going out of my mind. It made me smile at the very moment i realized that My stomach was as self controlled as it could ever be. My body was satisfied with the nutrients it had from the juices i had consumed. Then i said to myself.. Wow, if i were on a self prescribed diet, id be a very grumpy supermarket shopper seeing all the food being given away to sample (base on past experiences).”

But most of all are the people who are able to get rid of bad habits or unwanted dependencies.

We have a client who has had a serious case of psoriases and has been on steroids for a very long time.  Punch Detox really helped her clear things and ever since her first time she orders the Green Punch as supplements to help her “adopt as alkaline a diet as possible for the last 2 years.”

The lighter side of detoxing:

GR: Do you eat cake? If so, which is your favourite?

Angela: No

Ann: YES!!!!! Cheesecake is my favorite. The dense kind—the kind you stick a fork into it and the fork stands up straight. It reminds me of my childhood with my dad.And I do love cakes from Sevva.

Angela: OK, I do eat Apple Pie, but I also make exceptions for the Meringue cake at Cipriani’s

GR: Please impart 3 pieces of advice for the novice detoxer…

- Never too late to start

- You can do anything for 3 days

- It’s ok to cheat a little. Focus on what you are doing right!!!

GR: Where can I sign up for my Punch Detox?

Angela: It’s full.

Ann: Just kidding, Of course, at www.punchdetox.com .  And if you sign up before January 20th, you will get a New Year’s discount of 15%. (code “Jan202013”).

Readers I hope these two ladies have inspired you! Sign up now and don’t forget the code!!

I’m starting my detox tomorrow! Seriously, I’m not just saying it… Stay tuned  x GR

Punch Detox: A 3-day Punch juice cleanse is priced at HK$1,680 and contains 18 bottles of fresh juices in 6 flavors.  There are 2 levels to choose from, depending on your lifestyle and goals.  For those who are looking to supplement their diet with fresh juice can also order 6 bottles of a single flavor for HK$600.  All prices include deliveries (except outlying islands)

I was honoured to be asked to be a part of photo shoot for www.LUXUP.com  Hong Kong & Macau, as part of their  3 part “Style Tribes” introduction to Hong Kong. Moreover I was tickled pink to know that I was going to be shot with fellow Glamamama’s Leigh Tung-Chou and Yolanda Choy-Tang. Nothing eases  awkward moments in front of the camera as much as close girlfriends

The fabulous article by Elizabeth Peng, editor-at-large of Luxup is already up on their site.. so please visit and have a read and a browse of this global luxury rewards programme shopping site!

http://www.luxup.com

I thought it would be fun to share some of the out-takes (from my camera) that didn’t make it, especially most of the standing compositions by the windows of Cafe Gray at Upper House. Why? Well I think it was primarily a balance issue, where gorgeous ladies, Leigh and Yolanda towered over me despite my ankle crippling 6 inch Christian Louboutins.

Enjoy x

Make-up: check; Hair: check; Wardrobe: check… The photographer, Untill Chan, setting up in the private room of Cafe Gray, at Upper House, Hong Kong

This was the first shot that we tried. As you can see, my 6 inch Louboutins DID NOT help my “stature” next to these two towering beauties!

So,  we tried a seated pose…

and then another one…

Until finally we found a plain wall where Leigh and Yolanda kindly removed their heels, so that my height challenge was no longer  apparent, and voila! THANK YOU LADIES!!!

[L-R: Sharie Ross: Alaia dress, Cartier Earrings, Chanel Watch

Leigh Tung-Chou: Roland Mouret dress, Bvlgari earrings and Serpenti watch

Yolanda Choy-Tang, Dior jacket, top and skirt]

Thanks again to Luxup.com, Elizabeth Peng, Untill Chan and of course Divia Harileila www.the-dvine.com (Her blog rocks!)

Today’s post is about a quintessential Glamamama. She is a multi-tasker, overachiever, and truly someone who is at the top of her game with every pursuit. She shuns the spotlight and prefers to keep a low profile, and remains humble in all her endeavours. She is an entrepreneur, mother, sister, niece, wife, friend and ultimately a leader.

In my continuous search for super women, I’ve called upon the know-how and know-who of several of my Glamaross friends. When 5/5 proclaim that, “You’ve got to interview Yvonne!” I stopped dead in my tracks, pulled out the stops in hot pursuit of this Glamamama, Yvonne Wong Tsang.

I feel fortunate to have met this inspirational being (seriously when you surround yourself with overachievers you need to keep your life on track… NOTE TO SELF: must continue to strive to make a difference). Everything she has achieved thusfar, has been remarkable. She spent 17 years in the banking and finance industry with renowned financial heavy weights such as, State Street Corporation, where she was Managing Director and prior to that she was Chief Operating Officer at Thaddeus Capital.

However,  it is not just her financial career that makes her an inspiration but rather  her entrepreneurial spirit  (from property development to the development of  children and educational services) and charitable vigour  (the accolades are endless) that gives credence to this super woman’s life.

GLAMAMAMA MONDAY: talks priority, philanthropy and destiny with Yvonne Wong Tsang

Yvonne Wong Tsang, with Scotty, Zoe and husband Ernest Tsang

GR:  Describe yourself in 10 words or less

YWT: A workaholic but not at the expense of time with my family.

GR:  What is your definition of success as a women/ mother?

YWT: Seeing my family healthy and happy.

GR:  Who are your role models, and why?

YWT:  My 93 -year-old aunt, who has been with me the day since I was born. She has the most kind and generous heart. She is a survivor and fighter, tough as nails when it comes to facing challenges in life.

GR:   What was the most significant moment in your life, and how did it change/ affect you?

YWT: Giving birth to both my children changed everything in my life in the most positive way. They gave me drive to work harder, be a better person, prioritise and still strike a balance, which is extremely difficult.

GR. You are involved in quite a few charitable  organisations. Which ones are they and why did you join/ volunteer with them?

YWT:  I am involved actively with Heep Hong Society as a member of the Executive Committee as well as Chairman of its Fund Raising Committee. I am also a member of the Financing Committee. I first volunteered for Heep Hong back in 1999 when Goldman Sachs organised a visit to one of their centres. I was very touched by the work Heep Hong did and  does for children with Autism, ADHD and other learning disabilities. This is a monumental year for Heep Hong as we celebrate our 50th anniversary!

I am also a volunteer for Society for Community Organization, focusing on children and the elderly living in caged homes, and have sponsored regular charity events each year since 2009 for SoCo Shum Shui Po and Kwun Tong branches. I love and share the passion and the belief of the teams and volunteers at SoCo.

GR: How has your life changed in the last 8 years?

YWT: I went from working in investment banks from sale side to buy side, to building properties, residential and commercial, to being mother of two, to building protective garment business and now getting involved in children and educational  related businesses…ummmm, actually not in any sequential order here but let’s say I have not changed in the past 8 years. I  still love multi-tasking!

GR: What projects are you working on?

YWT: Several and they all involve building. I love building whether it is in a bank building up a department, or a property, or businesses; I just love building.

GR:  Do you think women can have it all?

YWT: . No one can have it all but I do believe in driving my own destiny.

GR:  How do you manage your entrepreneurial endeavours and your family?

YWT:  Nothing is more important than my family. As long as my family is happy and healthy, I work. If they are not, my work stops. My kids pick up from me the value of hard work and I started getting them involved with what I do even at a very young age especially with charitable work.

Zoe, following in Mummy’s footsteps and helping at the Heep Hong Society Flag Day

While Yvonne is still involved in various businesses from  property development, to the  development of a  protective garment business,  she is now also the Chairwoman  of Adventure Holdings Ltd, which owns Adventure Sport Academy in Taiwan and Hong Kong as well as Adventure Studios Ltd  a learning centre for children to nurture their creativity through audio, visual and performing arts. Yvonne works closely with co-founder of ASA, “Coach” Raymond Lo to  provide personalised and professional sports training programmes to over 600 children in Hong Kong and Taiwan

Apart from her work commitments, Yvonne is the  dedicated mother of Zoe (7) and Scotty (5)  and is actively involved in community and church services.

This post is supposed  to inspire you and  not make you feel like an underachiever! On that note, let’s go get ‘em ladies!

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It was the 10th Anniversary of Bvlgari Hong Kong’s flagship store, at Chater house. The power players of Hong Kong were buzzing for months… Who was on the guest list? Where was the dinner to be held? Who was coming to town?

The main entrance of the Bvlgari boutique was swarming with paparazzi from the moment the doors opened for the ribbon cutting ceremony in the morning, to the VIP high jewellery dinner that same night.

Spotted were Oscar award winners, Adrien Brody and Hilary Swank, Korean heart-throb Cha Seoung Won, Asia’s own action star, Donnie Yen and Hong Kong’s true beauty Michelle Reis, and of course me! hahaha no seriously I, along with my darling husband, were honoured to be included.

Upon arrival, we were given a very charming, Italian welcome by Mr Francesco Trapani, President of LVMH Jewellery and Watches (who is also the great grandson of Sotirio Bulgari)… ahh yes, I adore Italians (will get to that another time ;p) … and thereafter we were invited to browse the new boutique and the Bvlgari baubles.  Glamaross marketing maverick, Leigh Tung Chou, in an embellished red Michael Kors evening dress, and  diamond serpenti necklace, sparkled as she ensured all guests had a champagne flute in hand, and viewed the key pieces of the new collection, as well as the exclusive pieces from the Elizabeth Taylor Bvlgari collection, including the stunning Sautoir diamond and sapphire necklace that Richard Burton gifted to Liz for her fortieth birthday in 1972.

Hilary Swank in Elie Sabb and Bulgari jewels

Spotted at the boutique  was Mira Yeh who was every bit her usual glamorous self in a full-length yellow, Prabal Gurung flowing gown, with a fur she bought over 10 years ago, and a white fur Chanel bag. Accompanying Mira, was good friend Asami Ferguson who looked elegant in a LUBLU gown with a Frandami bag! These two ladies certainly 
elevated the glamour quotient of the evening.

Also enjoying cocktail hour was style maven Kay Li, who arrived in a glittering nude and silver micro-mini, reminiscent of a Zuhair Murad gown, which she picked up from a small LA boutique. “I don’t know who the designer is. I just liked the dress.”

It was great to catch up with elite coiffeurier Kim Robinson (Thank goodness I had my hair done at his salon that day!) as well as handbag design supremo Fiona Kotur, who was in the midst of moving house. Fashionista Tansy Lau Tom shone in neon yellow, while Ming Ho-Tang looked elegant in black, and Angie Ting flowed angelically in a full length white gown.

Kim Robinson and Sharie Ross

Ivan and Angie Ting

 

Josephine Chiu, Harriet Tung and Winnie Chiu

Julian Hui and Michelle Reis-Hui

David and Linda Ting
(looking stunning in this low back DVF gown)

Ming Ho-Tang and Sherman Tang

Cissy and Donnie Yen

CC Tung and Leigh Tung-Chou

Sam and Paulene Chu

Kevin and Sabrina Lam

Olivia Lee Davies and Monica Wong

After cocktails, we were ushered to private limousines that would take us to the top secret dinner location. As the car meandered through the streets of Hong Kong, the Bulgari party venue shone from the ocean as we approached. Bulgari had taken over the space of, what is to be, the Hong Kong Maritime Museum adjacent to Central Pier, at Pier 8.

Veronica Chou

Pamela Tung and Sabrina Chao

Helen and Rock Chen

Dorothy and Jonathan Cheng

The venue was completely transformed. From the moment we stepped out of the car, and ascended the escalator we embarked on a magical mystery tour of the world of Bvlgari. From a Bvlgari Hall of Fame, to candle lit hallways and candle-lit dinning room with Bvlgari engraved tables. The branding for the event was spectacular (as a former events person and someone who organised the grand opening of the same store ten years prior, I was in awe!) The evening was pure class.

Pier 8

The menu by the Mandarin was paired with Dom Perignon champagnes. Gena West, international gospel and jazz singer performed during the dinner whilst the models showed the new 60 piece high -jewellery collection. Amongst the new collection, was the Jade Serpenti, a necklace of jade and diamonds that made its international debut that very night… jaw droppingly gorgeous! 

Gena West performing

The evening was one of elegance and oh, did I mention that I met Adrien Brody and Hilary Swank, and nearly spilt champagne on Donnie Yen? Indeed I was every bit starstruck, and even made it to the afterparty!! Thank you Bvlgari x

Here are some photos from Instagram … follow me @glamaross

Enjoy x

Sharie Ross, Laetitia Yu, Anne Wang-Liu and Fiona Kotur Marin

Guess what? The famed french jewellery maison,  Van Cleef & Arpels is launching a brand new high jewellery line, “Palais de la Chance”, on February 1st, 2013. (I can’t wait!)

On that very same day, VCA is also launching its  very first online calendar where you and I, and other lovers of  carats, design and sparklers, can share our  own auspicious stories with the world of Van Cleef & Arpels! All submissions will have the chance to win a trip to Paris. (The online calendar is open from February 1st- March 17th, 2013)

Vivre Le France! Paris, Je T’aime ! (I should stop there, before my you realise how limited my  O’ level french really is.)

 http://www.days-of-luck-vancleefarpels.com

Click on the link above.  Bonne Chance mes amis! 

This weeks GLAMAMAMAS  have great hair! Yes indeed, I’ve seen them in the middle of the day shuttling their kids from A to B, taking glamour to the next level and even keeping super chic salon ready curls on the slopes of Whistler or Niseko in sub-zero temperatures. Viola Chen- Cheong and Vanessa Chen-Kwan are always impeccably turned out.

Viola is every bit a stylish woman who takes elegant risks on a daily basis, whilst Vanessa is often “cinched”  showcasing her minute waist and always adds a dash of colour to her fashion repetoire.  On the day of our interview, I was greeted warmly by the fashionable Chen sisters.

Viola in Dolce & Gabbana black lace dress that was bonded to jersey, with white lace trim, paired with three Nyphemberg necklaces, was the image of a chic yet understated woman. Meanwhile Vanessa, (whose waist is minuscule by the way) wore a black and gold JC de Castelbajac tribal print dress with a stunning Caroline Dezman necklace.

But don’t let their different styles fool you. These two are partners in every sense of the word. Along with the third partner, childhood friend Jane Chao-Lee, their company Scipian,  imports jewellery and affordable luxury with a twist, to Hong Kong.

Viola Chen-Cheong, Vanessa Chen-Kwan and Jane Chao-Lee on the steps of Galerie Huit

Both Vanessa and Viola ventured into this new company at the suggestion of Jane, and since then they have held exclusive trunk shows for  contemporary jewellery  brands such as Nyphemburg by Patrick Muff, Jewellery by artisan Carolina Dezman and Jewellery by Patrick Muff. When asked about the obstacles of their partnership, the sisters are united in their objectives. One of the main reasons could be that, not only are Vanessa and Viola twin sisters, but Jane is also longtime friend, and the bonds between the two families started when their fathers were business partners together, and hence the legacy between the two families continues.

Nyphemburg by Patrick Muff

A life of glamour is not always an easy ride. All three partners take on a very hands-on role to ensure every aspect of each exhibition is perfect. “When we held the Carolina Dezman exhibition, we knew that we needed to “hang” the jewellery since each piece is a work of art,” explained Viola. “We sourced some mannequin busts from Mongkok and brought them back to Galerie Huit,” said Vanessa. “It was then that we realised that we couldn’t just use them as is, so each one of us took some home to paint!” Instead of sending these “props” out to be painted the ladies decided to make it an art project at home. The end result was artistic and creative.

Jewellery by Carolina Dezman

Aside from the glamorous world of luxury and art, these glamamamas are dedicated super moms in every way. But both will readily admit that being able to pursue this path was wholly due to the support of the family and friends.

Viola with her two daughters and husband Bernard in Whistler “13

Vanessa and her husband Michael, with their two children  (Whistler ’13) 

Daddy’s girls always

The Kwans

The Cheongs

Vanessa and Viola with childhood friends who they also consider “family” 

Scipian will be hosting an exhibition of Patrick Muff’s Private Collection from March 12-14, 2013 at Galerie Huit, 8 St Francis Street, Wanchai. The artist will also be there. So hurry all

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So many people have asked why I blog.

Well, in a nutshell I get inspired by brilliance, and in a city like Hong Kong, brilliant, capable, multi-facted women are at every corner.  I felt it was duty to share their inspiring stories with the rest of the world, and I felt that I owed it to all Glamamma’s out there to give the good honest truth about women in Hong Kong.

The term “tai tai” is so passe, and the aspiration to be one, is even more so!  I was fed up with the maligned image of Hong Kong women.

There is a segment of us out there who want more than just to sleep, eat and shop!  And, today’s Glamamama is the perfect example of a real Hong Kong woman.  A businesswoman, entrepreneur, mother of three and her effortless everyday style defines contemporary American chic.

I managed to track this week’s Glamamama down in between her son’s basketball game, a visit from Diane von Furstenberg, ballet recitals and a market visit from the principles of Kate Spade…

Yup! This week’s Glamamama, Linda Chang Ting, is the quintessential multi-tasker, and all the while taking every
glamaross step in her latest DVF threads and Kate Spade accessories.

Linda Chang Ting, at DVF Pacific Place (March 2013)

(March 2013)

Linda is a style inspiration to her friends, a loving wife to her husband David Ting, a mother of 3, one of whom is now a teenager (if you look at her you would never believe it.  Her youthful looks are of envy of many!)  Having started her career in fashion over 17 years ago, today she is executive director of Globalluxe, a business that she co-founded with her husband David.  Her life is a lesson in masterful organization.  She is planning for new stores in Taipei and Shanghai, training to climb Mount Kinabalu, and no doubt planning one of her three children’s birthday parties, and did I mention she is currently building a home in California?  While she manages to expertly balance her professional, personal and familial responsibilities, she also finds time to give back … A woman of substance, style and stamina!

Linda Chang Ting: Glamamama, taste maker, multi-tasker extraordinaire tells all…life, success, love and Tom Ford!

GR: When did you become interested in fashion?

I became interested in fashion at a very young age, around 13 … my high school library subscribed to W magazine, which was a gorgeous large format loose leaf newspaper back then.  We could initial pages we wanted to keep, then collect them at the end of the month. Christy Turlington was starting out as a teenager, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren were really inspiring designers of the time.  I was also very interested in designing children’s clothing.  My first full time job at 22 was in Hong Kong as Art Director at the advertising agency J. Walter Thompson.  I was fortunate to work with extremely talented Creative Directors, Tan Shen Guan and Stanley Wong who taught me so much about branding and visual arts.  One of my clients was The Swank Shop, which was a wonderful opportunity to delve into the world of fashion.  Swank encouraged our creativity and allowed us to take risks, and ultimately our team was able to develop several international award winning campaigns for them.

GR: How many years have you been in the  fashion business?

I started working at Gucci after graduating from business school in 1996, so 17 years!!!

Linda and David with Du Juan 2007

GR: The moment that you knew you were really that darned good at what you do. What happened and how did you feel? 

Early in my career, I was sent to Paris to direct a photo shoot for Gucci Timepieces. I was a bit nervous as we were creating a huge ad campaign and collateral materials. The photographer was Guido Mocafico, and then unknown Liberty Ross was the model. It was a very sexy shoot with the watches and a lot of bare skin, but it was also very complicated technically, due to the nature of timepieces. After sending everything through to Florence, I received a fax (so old!) back from Tom Ford on which he scribbled “Great!” I was elated and relieved!

GR:  What was the most memorable experience of your profession and what happened?

The DVF Red Ball in Shanghai has to be the most memorable experience of my career. It was huge celebration Diane threw in conjunction with her 2011 “Journey of a Dress” exhibition inBeijing, and was over a year in the making. There were so many incredibly talented people involved from Alexandre de Betak to the Chinese artist Zhang Huan. It was an amazing collaboration and a beautiful event and something I’ll never forget!

Melvin Chua, Linda and David Ting with Natalia Vodianova
(Beijing 2011)

GR:  What was the most memorable experience of your life?

The births of each of my children have been very touching and emotional events, but everyday
experiences with my family and every moment watching the kids grow are also very memorable.

The Tings 2007

GR: What’s a  typical day in the (un)glamorous world of Linda Chang Ting?

6:15 Wake, get the kids ready for the day 7:30 Drop kids at school

7:45 Meet friends at Parkview for hike of Mt Butler, Violet Hill or the Twins. We’re training to climb Mount Kinabalu in April!

Hiking the twins (Hong Kong 2013)

10:00 Arrive at office, catch up on emails and orchestrate logistics for the day, cars, kids’ activities, dinner…

10:30 Review drawings for new shops in Shanghai and Taipei.

11:00 Meet with DVF merchandising team to review fall 2013 apparel and accessories collections.

Linda and David with Diane von Furstenberg (Hong Kong 2006)

12:00 Reach out for sponsors for the upcoming Child Development Centre fund raiser “Daddy
Daughter Ball”

12:30 Lunch with school mom friends to catch up and chat about our kids…and everything…

2:00 Meet with marketing team to discuss Kate Spade 20th anniversary celebration in Thailand.

With Kate and Andy Spade at the opening of Harbour City Store in 2003

2:30 Review recent press clippings with the PR team

3:00 Confirm travel details for upcoming trips to Singapore, Beijing, and New York.

3:30 Organize photos from my daughters’ birthday parties.

4:00 Meet my architect/interior designer to select fabrics for the living room.

4:30 Rush to school to watch my son’s basketball game…they win the International School
Championship!

6:30 Dinner at home with the kids

The Tings on the ski slopes

7:30 Help with homework

8:30 Showers, reading, prepare kids for bedtime

9:30+ Relax with my husband David with a nice bottle of wine & cheese, or go for foot reflexology.

GR: Which Charities do you support?

I often choose to support children’s charities; I feel like kids really deserve the best chance they can get, for a good start to life. I am on committee for Child Development Centre and also support the Hong Kong Juvenile Diabetes Association. I am also a member of the Hong Kong
Ballet Guild and the Asia Art Archive Collectors Circle.

GR: Favourite place on earth?

Any beach…I grew up in Newport Beach and love the view, sound and smell of the ocean…

Near her favourite place in the world with her most precious

GR: Who is your role model?

My mom. She’s gentle yet strong, incredibly smart, and she does everything for everyone and
never takes credit; she’s the most generous person I’ve ever met.

Linda with her mum in 2010, Barcelona

LINDA TING’S Top 5 must haves for summer 2013

- Kate spade ladan wedges in gold leather and navy grosgrain

- J crew classic white cotton boy shirt and toothpick blue jeans

- DVF cashmere & silk new noa back zip sweater (I have all colors!)

- Lanvin strapless silk color block dress

- Celine edges cuff in python

LINDA TING’S TOP 3 BEAUTY TIPS

- Clinique superbalm moisturizing gloss

- Benefit “that gal” brightening face primer

- Crème de la Mer

GR: Do you think women can “have it all”, work, love, life and luxury?

Of course we can!!!

Linda Ting in Kate Spade (March 2013)

CALLING ALL PARENTS!

Your kids are out of diapers. They’re in primary school, and some heading towards middle school?

If you are like me, you have toiled with the idea of boarding school, schooling overseas, or even just curious, since every wannabe-tigermum is so  in tune with the educationally competent path of their off spring.

photo courtesy of TOP10.web.id

When my kids where in utero I played Bach, Menuhin, watched the NBA, ogled at Beckham in hopes that my children would be musical prodigies, tall and darned good-looking (minus the tats, they’re not really for me).  Once they were born I just assumed that they would get early acceptance to Cambridge without a worry on my mind…. BRAKE!!!!

Needless to say, my children aren’t fond of piano, struggle with the violin, have not surpassed the height percentile of their age, and (thankfully) aren’t blonde and blue-eyed. However, I know that the Dean of Admissions of Cambridge is holding on to their acceptance letters until they are at least ten-years-old, right?

It’s okay, you can laugh out loud too, even I giggled as I wrote that!

Reality truly bites you right in the @ss doesn’t it.  It doesn’t matter how much support, legacy, funds or power you have, the biggest Achilles heel of all parents is our children. Nothing is black and white and the best we can do is give them “options”, prepare them to face challenges, successes, disappointments in life, and for the moment the most important, the school interviews!

So if you’ve toyed with the idea of boarding school, the following will hopefully offer some insight, to the whys, what, when and hows…

THE PATH TO UK BOARDING SCHOOLS UNVEILED

by Eleanor Smallwood, managing director British Tutors

I know that choosing the right boarding school for your child is a hard enough decision, but once made you are still only half way there. The power balance now shifts to the school as they decide if your child has what they are looking for. With the best British boarding schools being oversubscribed with international students, this raises the questions what do the schools want and are HK children prepared?

Parents often  ask how they can get their children ready for the entrance tests and for actually starting school in the UK. The process can be a little overwhelming, but don’t worry! I’ll try to demystify it here. I’ll also share some tips and advice we’ve gathered from housemasters and interviewers at the top schools, as well as insights from both successful and initially unsuccessful applicants whose results we have helped turn around.

With an interview and entrance exams to face, there are two big hurdles to jump. To add to the stress, kids in HK are often playing catch up with their British counterparts as they aren’t following the curriculum the exams are based on. They also know very little about what boarding school life is actually like and what will be expected from them.

All schools are ultimately looking for one thing: students who will contribute to school life, both with their academic and extracurricular achievements and by showing a spark and genuine enthusiasm. Giving your child a positive exposure to boarding will help make this something they really want and so allow them to shine.

Hurdle 1: The Interview

The purpose of the interview is for the school to see whether the student is lively, interested and motivated in ways which back up their academics. The interview for most top schools consists of a conversation with a teacher or housemaster lasting approximately 40 minutes. It may be a general chat about academic and extracurricular interests, or for the more demanding schools it could include interpretation of unseen poetry, mental arithmetic or current affairs. Favourite books will almost certainly come up. What is important is for the interviewee to show a genuine enthusiasm and that they can form reasoned opinions.

Hurdle 2: The Exams

Your child will also have to sit a number of exam papers based on the British curriculum. At 11+ (for entry in year 7) they will be tested on English, maths and science, sometimes with verbal and non-verbal reasoning papers as well. At 13+ (for entry in year 9) the core subjects are typically joined by other electives. Even if your kid is achieving great results at school, you will need to make sure that this will translate to these exams. They may not have covered some of the topics before and the exam papers may have a different format and expectations to those they are used to. English is usually the area of weakness we see in our students. HK schools tend not to be so strong in the humanities and students will need their analysis and writing skills stretched.

Starting Boarding School

After getting into their chosen school, the transition to boarding is also something students need to prepare for. Adapting to new school life can be difficult, both academically and pastorally. You may want to get in touch with your child’s tutor or houseparents before arriving to answer any questions and help the settling in process. Independence and initiative are important skills schools look for and will be vital in practice for boarding life.

Teaching methods may differ from what students are used to. They need to expect to tackle homework on their own as well group tasks, research and enquiry projects. HK students in particular need to be prepared to ask questions and express opinions – something we often see reticence in! It also helps if they have a base understating of subjects such as French, Latin and British History so they are not at disadvantage to their peers. We often help with introductions to these subjects, along with offering a mentoring role by someone who has been to boarding school themselves and knows the best way to fit in.

Tips for Success

• Firstly, and most importantly, make sure you have chosen a school where you think your child will integrate well and so be able to excel. Just because a school sits at the top of a league table doesn’t necessarily mean it is right for your child. Interviewers will recognise this.

• Make sure your child sits practice entrance papers and is able to get consistently strong results.

• They will need to be able to think of the spot, both in exam and interview. We see unsuccessful applicants who aren’t used to forming their own opinions, so we work hard with our students to encourage discussion, analysis and debate.

• The best academic preparation is not short-term, but a long-term approach, especially in English. We help many students from a young age follow an English programme similar to that taught in top UK prep schools.

• Ahead of the interview your child should learn as much as they can about the school they are applying for and have a number of answers ready about why they want to attend. They should also prepare questions to ask such as “What sports facilities do you have?”, “How much homework should I expect?” or “How often can we use the library?”.

• Make sure they have read and can talk about several serious pieces of literature – not just rely on fantasy or popular culture. Several suggestions: Poems by Carol Ann Duffy, Michael Morpurgo books or even Shakespeare for children!

• Keep them up to date with current affairs and encourage mind expanding excursions to museums, galleries and, better still, to places that expand their knowledge of British history and culture.

• Interviewees should avoid any mention of computer games – a pet hate of housemasters!

• One Winchester interviewer said he is always keen on all-rounders. Whilst academic interests must come first, he is wary of anyone who doesn’t offer anything outside of the classroom.

• Schools look for genuine interests and will assess candidates’ ability to talk in a fluent and informed manner about a subject. They will be able to spot whether a student is truly inspired or being pushed into hobbies by their parents.

• Finally, the school will only see what your child shows them. They must practise presenting their strengths and if they have a special talent, make sure it is showcased to its best. Practice talking about their favourite hobby for five minutes or perhaps they could bring along a favourite essay or story, painting or photograph to talk about. I know HK kids are a brilliant bunch, they just need to be sure to show it!

About the author:  

Eleanor (left)  runs British Tutors with co-founder Olivia Hungerford (right)

Eleanor graduated from The University of Edinburgh with a First Class Masters degree in Psychology. She has taken courses in developmental and educational psychology and studied learning difficulties in children. She has also worked as a writer and journalist for international publications and published academic papers. Eleanor received A grades in all her school examinations, and for many years tutored pupils in both London and Hong Kong to receive similar results. She now works with the team of tutors to ensure that the highest standards are maintained.

Based in Hong Kong, Olivia runs British Tutors alongside  Eleanor Smallwood. Together they train and manage their team of tutors in the very best methods of private tuition. Olivia graduated from Oxford University with a 2:1 degree in English Literature and Language. She is a highly experienced private tutor herself, having taught a range of ages and abilities throughout her tutoring career. Her specialisms include academic assessments and 11+ and 13+ school entrance. She has homeschooled a number of children, devised curricula for all ages and levels and has worked as a tutor for Oxbridge applications with a 100% success rate.

Consider  British Summer Academy as the perfect taster of the best of British school life combined with the academic challenge that entrance tests require. This is a unique two-week summer school programme in the UK which is the perfect introduction to boarding school life. It combines challenging academic work with fun and exciting activities to prepare students academically and enthuse them for the interviews.

Contact info@Britishtutors.com  for more information for 2013 applications.

www.britishtutors.com
www.facebook.com/britishtutorshk

Glamamamas, we’re back!

With the mysteries of web-osphere (plugins, codex and multiplatform accessibility… yes I am speaking english) I’ve been working on an upgrade. It’s a work in progress, and I’ve decided that the blogging must continue… and so I’m back with this week’s GLAMAMAMA, YOLANDA CHOY-TANG.

Yolanda Choy-Tang, wife, mother, friend and entrepreneur talks tulle, lace, and her formula for happiness! Only on GLAMAROSSTV.

Yolanda Choy-Tang (Photo:@glamaross) 

GR: How do you manage your days between work, children, family?

YCT: How do I manage my days? That is the challenge. First of all, I have a trusty agenda that I cannot live without. So it’s really a process of putting everything in and trying to make time for your priorities. For sure I am going to take Hayley  to school, pick up Brandon, spend some time reading with him, spend some time with Hamilton. Those will be the priorities and then everything else I can pencil appointments between.

Yolanda at Central Weddings (Photo @glamaross) 

GR: So do you think you have become more efficient in the last 8 years? Children … Central Weddings … you gave birth to many things!

YCT: Yes, I think I have learned to be more efficient and to make more with the limited time that we have. Before when we were both working without families, we had a lot of time to just focus on work, and just work.  And now we have to juggle school, kids, husband, what’s for dinner, did anybody go shopping, who’s going to take the pet to the salon, who’s going to pick up the kids, who’s going to feed the dog? The list is endless…

Trip to Alaska summer 2012 with family 

GR: Do you think it is possible to have it all —  success in work, love, life, family?

YCT: Sure, I think it is a matter of expectation and satisfaction.

What is that equation? Satisfaction equals reality minus expectation. And so I am very satisfied, I am very happy.

Yolanda and her husband, Hamilton

GR: What are the most important values you try to instill in your children?

YCT: I would like the kids to be moral citizens, and also be concerned about other people. I think empathy is really important coz in today’s world, everything seems to be all about me. Being raised in Hong Kong, you’ve got helpers helping you. If you don’t like to eat rice, oh, they will make pasta! You have to control this type of a situation and bring the kids back to earth and say, “Look, you are not the center of the universe, there are other people that are involved here.” And really teaching them to be caring about other people, and once they know that, they can be good moral citizens. I think that’s really important.

Yolanda, with sisters, Loretta, Melinda and Patricia

With friends at the opening of the Vera Wang boutique Hong Kong

With friends in Sri Lanka at a friend’s wedding

Yolanda at Van Cleef & Arpels, Palaise de la Chance dinner with Laetitia Yu, Sharie Ross and Anne Wang-Liu

Yolanda with good friend Laetitia Yu at the Vera Wang boutique

Yolanda with Sharie Ross and Leigh Tung-Chou (Photo @LUXUP.com)

Yolanda in a Christian Dior gown on her wedding day…

Photos: @Yolanda Choy-Tang/ @glamaross/ @luxup.com

A head for finance with the face of a model?

Indeed Audry Ai-Morrow is brains with beauty… perhaps one of the most potent of combinations! If you take one look at her photo you can see why. A graduate of the University of Chicago, this former investment banker has made Hong Kong her home for the past 15years. It was in this city of ours where she met her husband Tom, and  after marriage, had their 3 beautiful children, Luke, Annabelle and Scarlett.

Today Audry is a partner in Central Weddings, and a dedicated wife and mother… How does she do it?

GLAMAROSS SPEAKS WITH AUDRY AI-MORROW

Audry Ai-Morrow speaks with GlamarossTV (Photo @Glamaross) 

GR: What brought you to Hong Kong?

AM: After university, I was working in investment banking in New York and was asked if I’d like to transfer to the Hong Kong office.  I thought it sounded exciting and would be an incredible opportunity so I took it.

GR: At what point did you know that this city would be your home?

AM: Home is wherever I live, yet during my first year here I worked on a project in Jakarta where I spent all of my time so didn’t get a chance to settle in to HK.  Once I was really here, I made an effort to make this my home and signed up for canto lessons and started making friends.  I met my husband and had my three children here.  I was born in the US and love it there, but Hong Kong is where we call home.

Scarlett, Annabelle and Luke in Montana 

GR: Describe your professional journey before starting Central Weddings. 

AM: After university, I worked in Corporate Finance at Bear Stearns in New York and Hong Kong.  After that, I went to work at Lark International an entertainment company that does cinema operation, movie production & distribution, game centers, & online and telephone ticketing.   I was mainly helping to set up the companies and build multiplex cinemas around China and Taiwan.   It wasn’t a glamorous job, yet I learned a lot from my experiences and worked with some wonderful people who are still our best friends today.

[What Audry didn't mention was that while she was a hard nosed investment banker, she was persuaded by the modelling companies to compile a composite card. She has graced the pages of Marie-Claire, walked the runways and all the while kept her investment banker persona! Darn her for being so smart, beautiful and humble!]

On her wedding day with her husband Tom

GR: How did CW come about?

AM: I think Yolanda and I were taking a walk with our big bellies (pregnancy #1) when we discussed possibly setting up a retail business together.  I had just ‘retired’ from my corporate job and wanted to look into different business options.  I was so excited to become a mom so wanted to start my own thing and have time to spend with my son as well.  We had both recently married and remembered the lack of wedding gown options in Hong Kong.  We thought what a beautiful, happy business it would be!  We did more research, put a business plan together, flew to Paris and New York to meet some designers and went from there.

Audry Ai-Morrow & Yolanda Choy Tang

GR: There are four partners in Central Weddings. What are their different roles? 

AM: We all work together, but our main responsibilities are:

Audry Ai Morrow – finance & business

Yolanda Choy Tang – business development, marketing, PR

Carolyn  Chow- operations

Michelle  Leung Sulger- strategy

Annabelle choosing her princess gown at Central Weddings

GR: What makes Central Weddings or Vera Wang HK so unique for each future bride?

AM: Not only do we endeavor to offer brides a stunning selection of gowns to choose from, but we also hope our service and comfort gives them an experience as exciting as the proposal itself.

Audry with daughter, Scarlett 

GR: Have there been any obstacles to your business?  If so, any you would care to share?

AM: As is the case in any retail shop in Hong Kong, finding the right location and negotiating the lease (and a reasonable rent) with the landlords is always a challenge.

GR: How do you balance your days between home, kids, work & Tom?

AM: My children are 8, 7 & 3 now so I like to work & have my ‘me’ time when they are in school or at their activities.   I often take at least one of them to an activity or lesson so we can spend time together… I love being a ‘soccer mom’!  My husband and I spend our time together and with friends after the kids go to bed.  We try to keep the weekends free for family, sport and fun!

The Morrow family Ski trip 

GR: Would you consider yourself someone who can have it all?  Work life and play?

AM: If ‘all’ is happy family, good friends and a small business… then I must say I am content and feel truly blessed.

with her eldest, Luke

GR: What are the most important values you try and instill in your children?

AM: Kindness, humility, empathy, respect, wisdom, integrity….

Audry at Central Weddings (Photo @Glamaross) 

To hear more about Audry Ai Morrow (in mandarin) please watch GLAMAROSSTV

“Mummy did you hurt yourself?” her son asked somewhat perplexed and a little horrified. What the darling boy was referring to, was the giant protuberance that had evolved on his mother’s face. The said mother, my dear readers, was moi! (I don’t know if there are ever enough emoticons to express how horrified I was) Indeed I had/ have/ am struck with a ridiculous bout of adult acne.

I couldn’t believe it. I followed every rule, drank copius amounts of H2O, never touched my face, and steered clear of fried foods (except french fries… universal OK in my book!)

Once the beacon became more and more apparent, I broke the one cardinal rule of acne terrror. I glared incessantly at it through my magnifying mirror until my inner demon convinced my fingers to attack… and so I did.

Talons sharpened… I went in for the kill!

photo: lifestyle-movement.org.uk (that’s not me exactly but pretty darned close. HA!)

Whilst the said beacon had diminished and I had cleanly excavated what needed to be removed, I had I also accidentally (and viciously) left a scar at least 15 dermis layers deep and now my next hurdle was how to reclaim my, once smooth, complexion.

I thought my problems were over until the very next morning… another spot reclaimed its position next to the former excavation site, and so my endless fight with adult acne began. I realised that the acne was occurring in the same area each time which led to me to wonder if there was a correlation between a certain part of my body, and hence my latest obsession of face mapping.

My acne was occurring on my cheeks (left primarily) and if you see the diagram below the cheek correlates with the STOMACH.. Alas digestive irritations. So I went on a vegetable only diet (ehhem.. and coffee. Goodness please don’t judge, we all have  vices)  and the guilt ridden goophead (another term for ZIT)  subsided.. Yippeee….. but……

I was left with scarring and no amount of concealer (miracle or otherwise) could cover up my unsightly imperfections.

My mission de jour: seek out the best blemish clearing, scar removing, brightening potion, lotions I could find… and I did it! BY JOVE I DID IT!! (I just did the victory dance.)

The 911 to clear acne scarring!

By miracle of miracles I came across Skinceuticals BLEMISH +AGE  DEFENCE

skinceuticals.com

Who could ask for more in one product. Be blemish free and reduce signs of aging? To be honest I was quite desperate to try anything at this point. (please click on link above to see composition of the product)  So I took it home and lathered on the potent treatment. ( leave a message on my fb page or comment, pm me and I will let you know where to buy this product in HK)

On first application there was a tingling sensation… hmm ok if truth be known there was a stinging, which subsided after two minutes. However as the days progressed the stinging diminished, which I concluded was due to the fact that my skin had acclimated to the drops. After the second day of using the treatment my skin started to shed. I felt a little reptilian actually, and despite being somewhat vain, I went about my business as normal. (How can you hibernate when you have a family and work to tend to!) There’s nothing more humbling than interviewing a gorgeous GLAMAMAMA when you have flakey, dry scarred, acne ridden skin. You get the picture… the Glamaross life is NOT glamorous at all. 

I realised that the key to blemish free and anti aging is to remove your skin altogether. Well that’s what it felt like anyway! After about a week all signs of blemishes had diminished and my next hurdle was to work on the scarring. I realised that I couldn’t use the blemish+ age defense on a regular basis, and needed to seek out a something that I could include in my daily skin care regime. Lucky for me I had in my arsenal of skin care products,  a bottle  of SKII whitening spots specialist.

I received this First Aid Kit, from Bastian Wu at Flare Communications. How creative is that!!

[Ok, as a sidebar here I would like to add that I NEVER review anything that I don't use or like.]

Flare Communications Hong Kong

I tried it. There was no tingling sensation at all and my skin became softer. I’m not sure if it  is solely due to the SKII, but I now use this as a serum followed by BB cream (with SPF of course) during the day, and for my nighttime regime I use the SKII Whitening spot Specialist followed by my nighttime moisturiser.

SKII is available at all major department stores in Hong kong, including Harvey Nichols. http://blog.harveynichols.com.hk/?p=2856

It’s been 2 weeks since I started using it, and my skin is clearer, softer and the pigmentation and scarring is getting lighter. All in all I am one happy girl… oops okay adult, sans acne!

Do you have a secret weapon to clearing adult acne?

X

G

Thank you to all the concerned visitors, and might I add my skin ailments have gone. Seriously it’s quite an experience to tell the world about your imperfections and then have an astounding number of consoling emails. I thank you.. but on to today’s post!

Another week of interviews and I’m  excited to introduce this week’s GLAMAROSS GLAMAMAMA MONDAYS, EDITH LAW

Edith Law Photo:@glamaross

Don’t let her petite stature fool you, Edith Law is a type A dynamo.

I met her by accident, and it wasn’t until our second chance meeting where we were seated next to each other at a dinner, that we found out that we shared the same alma mater, Queen’s University, where she studied Electrical Engineering. Thereafter she went Stanford to pursue an M.S. in Engineering Economics and Operation Research. In other words, this spark plug has never been a slacker! Her biography is endless and one of the many titles that she holds currently,  is  chairperson of the Fashion Farm Foundation. A non-profit organisation that she and her sister, Victoria, started from the ground up.

FFF show in Hong Kong with emerging designers

“The objectives of FFF is to promote Hong Kong as a fashion capital, not just a shopping capital,” says Edith. “We want to elevate Hong Kong as a fashion authority, much like Paris, London, New York and Japan.”

FFF started as a simple chat between Edith and Victoria, where  they discussed the  gap between emerging fashion talent and business.  Hong Kong’s design culture was constantly being overshadowed by the city’s reputation as a finance mecca. In essence all the ingredients were present in Hong Kong: talented emerging designers, garment manufacturing history, a finance centre,  as well as  consumate shopping culture, however  they weren’t connecting efficiently.

Edith meeting with the President of Federation de Francaise de la Couture in Paris to discuss initiatives to support FFF

So Edith set out to create a united platform to cultivate and promote fashion design and culture, as well as create a channel to help designers source for funds and other resources.

“There’s so much talent in Hong Kong, and we aren’t talking about the student level. There are designers who have studied abroad and are building their brands in Hong Kong much like Paris, London and New York,” explains Edith. “But I find that with so much talent, Hong kong should have the global recognition as a fashion capital from a design point of view and not just as a consumer.”

@Fashion Guerilla with  the 8 emerging HK designers in Paris

Fashion bloggers @Fashion Guerilla Paris showroom

“That’s what we set out to do with FFF, to promote Hong Kong as a fashion authority, by using the platform to connect the dots with the rest of the world. Hopefully the rest of the world will look to us for answers and talent and our pool of designers will have more  access to global opportunities. “

For the past year this former investment banker-turned-retailer has worked tirelessly with FFF, and when we met, she had  recently returned from France,  where FFF flew 8 emerging designers to Paris, to showcase their collections at, Fashion Guerilla, an event that was organised by FFF and  funded by CreateHK.  The event gained tremendous support from editors and buyers and sowed the first seeds for global recognition with fashion bloggers, journalists and buyers. “It was a great experience for the designers,” she said smiling. “It’s important for the emerging designers to feel supported by these dynamic events, trips, shows etc so that they feel inspired to continue with their brands.”

“It’s very cut throat in the fashion industry, but with FFF behind them we hope that we can offer support via mentorship, help them source funding, nurture creativity and also offer them a co-working space, if they need it.”

Photo: @glamaross

As the non-executive director of Ztampz Limited,  a multi-label chain with over 100 stores throughout  Asia, Edith knows her fashion. When asked who her favorite Hong Kong designer is, she makes no hesitation, “Johanna Ho,” and of the emerging group of designers under the FFF/ Fashion Guerilla umbrella? “Daydream nation did very well in Paris. I think the buyers, bloggers and media were looking for a more avant garde aesthetic. But just to be chosen is not enough. The designers have to stay focused and create.”

Edith with her husband Teck Chien Kong  and their children 

Edith incidentally practices what she preaches. A mother of two, she gives the following advice to any woman or mother hoping to start a business, brand or otherwise. “It’s important to think it through. In fact, I don’t believe it’s possible to  have it all, if there is no planning,” declares Edith. “I’m a realist. Even after I left investment banking, and got married, we planned that I would dedicate my time to Ztampz, develop the business model and then after three years, we would have children. Because in order to be successful, every step requires focus.”

“After children, everything changes,” acknowledges Edith. “You have to be more efficient and focused with the tasks at hand. A social life is definitely low on the priority chain.”

When asked her mantra to surviving as a type A dynamo? “Positivity will always optimise the potential and value in everything you do. I’m an engineer, it’s the only way I think.”

Skiing in Engelberg Switzerland

On that note…

Cha-Gheill Cha-Gheill Cha-Gheill!

If you speak Gaelic or if you are a member of the Queen’s University Alumni you’ll know exactly what it means… “NO SURRENDER”

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with Edith Law xo

A big Happy Mother’s Day to you all and a special shout out to the GLAMAROSS Glamamamas who have supported me thus far.

May you all continue to inspire and engage women the world over.

A TOAST TO YOU ALL… have a GLAMAROSS mother’s day. Saluting real women making a real difference.

The roll call:

Lucy Marriott:  Record Breaker, adventure seeker

Yolanda Choy Tang: Former luxury brand Marketeer, now co-Founding Partner at Central Weddings and Vera Wang HK

Audrey Savransky: Founder of international jewellery brand AS29

Yvonne Wong Tsang:  Chairman of Adventure Holdings Limited, Executive Committee Member of Heep Hong Society HK

Audry Ai Morrow: Former financier, and now co-Founding partner at Central Weddings and Vera Wang HK

Cheryl Wilson Tien: Founder of Charitable Choice HK

Michele Li: Founder of the Wedding Company HK

Annabelle Bond: World Record Holder, Philanthropist

Danielle Peita Graham: Model, Entrepreneur

Tansy Lau Tom: Dedicated mother, Fashionista

Vanessa Chen Kwan& Viola Chen  Cheong: Partners at Scipian

Esther Ma: PR dynamo, Founder and CEO of Prestique HK

Edith Law: Chairperson of Fashion Farm Foundation

Joyce Lee: Singer, Songwriter, Producer

Leigh Tung Chou: Luxury Marketing Consultant, Foodie, Tastemaker

Annie Ho Ting: Chairman of Bring Me A Book Foundation Hong Kong

Mimi Thorisson: Founder of ww.manger.com, Winner of the Best Food Blog 2013.

Linda Chang Ting: Entrepreneur, Co-Founder of Globalluxe

Ann Cha & Angela Cheng Matsuzawa: Co-Founders of Punchdetox

Thank you for the inspirations! Wishing you all a fabulous Mother’s Day!

Angie Ting (photo credit: ROGER LEE www.rogerleeproduction.com)

This week’s GLAMAMAMA is as gorgeous as she is smart. However do not let her beauty mar her intelligence. This former model holds an MBA, is a qualified pianist and has successfully  created her own children’s toy brand to boot, all the while being a dedicated wife and mother to her two children.

GLAMAMAMA Angie Ting, has successfully launched her own eco-friendly toy brand, APPLE PARK in the US which has  recently become available at Harvey Nichols, Hong Kong. The success of her hard work has paid off and speaking with her recently, she shared “I’m very happy that Apple Park is in Harvey Nichols, but they didn’t order directly through us here in  Hong Kong.They spotted our brand in the US and ordered from there. So  I feel honoured that APPLE PARK  was picked up based on its design and quality alone.”

Photo credit: Roger Lee

Apple Park is a favourite of many celebrity kids  including, Tabitha and Loretta Broderick (of Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker fame), Honor Warren (Jessica Alba‘s daughter), Selma Blair‘s son Arthur is a fan, and Apple Park has even found some TV time on the Kardashians.

So how does she do it?  GLAMAMAMA ANGIE TING, the eco-concious toy brand entrepreneur shares her secrets to success

GR: How did it all begin?

AT: My husband, Ivan is in the toy manufacturing business and  around 7 years ago, after the birth of our second child, I joined the company and took a role in the baby toy department where I got involved in the toy design and manufacturing process.

While I love toy design I really wanted to start a line of specifically eco-friendly toys.  I wanted to create a brand of my own using only the finest and most eco-friendly materials that was  best for babies, kids and the environment, with a great design concept. I knew that to do this right I needed to find the right designers and so about 4 years ago I met our designers Susan Pate and Chloe Pate in San Francisco, and we clicked immediately. We all shared the same vision and passion for beautiful, natural and green eco-friendly products, and  so the brand began from there!

Angie Ting, Susannah Searson & Chloe Pate  senior management team for APPLE PARK

Angie Ting with APPLE PARK products

(Photo credit: Roger Lee www.rogerleeproduction.com)

GR: How can someone who is not in a traditional position of leadership still inspire a shared vision in her workplace or community?

AT: Entrepreneur Organisation helped me a lot.  As a spouse of an EO member, I learned from attending many EO conferences that ‘ passion’ is the key to your success.  With the passion in your heart, you will influence and attract good people to join your team.

GR: How do you stay focused on the “Big Picture”without getting caught up and distracted with life?

AT: I love my job and so it becomes my hobby too.

GR: What are your top 3 tips for woman entering the “real world” workforce?

AT:

1) You have to love your job;

2) be grateful that you are contributing to the business world;

3) get a great person that you trust to take good care of your kids while you are caught up with your work – your Mom.

The inspiration for APPLE PARK, Angie’s two children. 

GR: What can a woman do to achieve happiness in life?

AT: Appreciate what you have in your life.

GR: What keeps you organised?  

AT: I have always been a fairly organised person as I like to plan things ahead.  I love to have quality time with my kids, it became a good force for me to organise my work so that I will have more time to spend with them.

GR: Why do you think it’s important to give back? 

AT: Happiness is to share , as no one will ever get enough.  By sharing, you will receive another level of joy and contentment.

GR: What is the most valuable lesson you instill in your children?

AT: Believe in God

GR: Who is or was your role model and why?

AT: My women’s bible study group.  We share valuable views on how to be a good wife, a good mom, and a good woman at work.  There is a book called ‘wisdom of mothers’ by Denise Glenn which is a real treasure to read and study.

GR: What’s the one thing people don’t know about Angie Ting?

AT: I used to play hymns on piano at church on Sundays.

Photo credit: Roger Lee

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My darling Zara is a year older today. As I prepare for this post I realise that most of my pictures have been taken “on-the-go” and so most are of Iphone quality. Thank you Iphone for always being there so I didn’t miss any of these quality moments in her life.

Happy Birthday to my angel. Love you always

This time last year… I made the
kids earn their keep!

A quick trip to Beijing and a
visit to the Great Wall. Zara was the perfect translator for
our week

Zara putting on a show at Fisherman’s
Wharf in San Francisco

Not much more to be said about this
picture… love love love

Zara and Zachary enjoying their
favourite Fro-Yo… YOMAMA!

Zara and Zachary helped to collect
donated breads for the aged, with Givingbread.org

An impromptu day of competition at
the Hong Kong Country Club!

Zara’s first attempt at a
somersault… needs a little more practice me thinks!

Zara participated in a photography
competition for Operation Smile and also got to meet Olympian gold
Medalist Guo Jing Jing! Oh and did I mention that she won!!
woohoo!

Another day of love & hugs
with her biggest fan X

Zara loves to Rock Climb!

And climb…

My Italian Dancer and King Rat at the
Nutcracker Benefit in December 2012

Trying to look interested for
mummy

A netball fanatic…
Centre!

Our family ski in Whistler Feb
2013

A Child’s Joy = My Joy

The determination = butterflies in my
stomach..

The joys of competition

She’s a big girl now! Ears pierced at Ma Belle. BEFORE

and AFTER! It’s DONE, and she survived!

I’m a BIG GIRL NOW!!!

I  LOVE YOU ZARA. X

Yes I know I know, all I seem to post lately are kids birthday photos. Well my children are 2 years and 1 week apart, so June always feels like a continuous stream of celebrations.. Today is Zach’s birthday.

Happy Birthday Zach! May your day be filled with love and grace my darling boy.

This time last year we spent the day at Ocean Park… spot the Hong Kong Child.. is it double peace, victory or just happiness??

We spent a week in Beijing in July and here is Master Tse contemplating his forefathers at the Forbidden City. Yup we had the place to ourselves.

In California collecting fresh and newly laid eggs from the chicken co0p.

In SF, and despite the smile he was telling me that “it’s too cold here!”

BFFs showing off their muscles!

Zach getting acquainted with the fresh herb garden, and picking out  herbs for dinner

A second generation of BFFs.. Lethos, Tses and Fitzgeralds in California

Nope, none of them were camera shy

Sports Day FUN!
Frolicking with one of his lifetime friends.

All suited and booted for a gourmet dinner with Dad.. my boys

A rare moment of calmness for both my Zs, or was it the calm before the storm :s

Zach as the King Rat in the Nutcracker Benefit Show 2012 with Wu Fei-fei, one of the principal dancers of the Hong Kong Ballet. (She asked for a photo with him! My star in the making :p)

Getting into the spirit of Christmas with carol singing..

About to ski the glacier in Whistler… this was Zach telling me that I was too slow.

Four Seasons Whistler Jan 2013

Back in Hong Kong post Chinese New Year and it was time for Disneyland.

Zach “The Kid”

The biggest Cotton Candy/ Candy Floss sugar rush, this side of Hong Kong!

Zach in Phuket at the Thanyapura swim meet. His first race ever in a 50m pool.  (Day 1 of 5 days of swimming)

Day 5 of swimming.. Bronzed, muscled up!

Zara and Zach got to swim with Jessica and Jason, both Hong Kong National Team swimmers.

Climbing the walls…nothing new here.

After swim training in Phuket, Zach came back to Hong Kong and took two Gold medals (oh and was rewarded a big chocolate bar. Evidence around his mouth!)

Zara and Zach participated in a “Mother’s Day Charity Catwalk show” for Emperor Jewellery. I got presented some flowers by my children. Love love love!

I could only make Zach seem sweet for an hour.. afterwards it was back to normal!

My little Messi.. Zach the leftie soccer enthusiast/player  after he scored a goal for his team!

A day of fun with his friends

Happy Birthday Zachary, as I go through these photos from the past year, I am filled with memories of joy, love and hope for you always.

Love you xo

It’s all about the Glamaross moments in life !