Some Changes I've Done for Year 2018

2018 started out pretty well.

2 days after 2018, I was hired to do the job I love most - teach makeup to a small group of eager learners!  

Aside from that, I was able to work with a brand for a very important project which I can finally tick off from my bucket list! 

In life, it is easier to just "go with the flow" and stick to what works!  "Why change?  When everything's working out well?"

That statement gets to be blurted out so easily by me, I used to be that way, "Matigas ang ulo."  (hard-headed).  I disliked change so much it felt like "change" is trying to ruin the world that I'm trying the create - my tiny rigid universe.  

Thankfully, my job entails me to meet, socialize and work with inspiring people.  Because of that, I got inspired, and inspiration welcomes CHANGE.  I can actually see myself changing, and it was the for the better because I can sense that!

Let's start with the simplest change in life that I managed to do.  Some sounded so childish and small, but it is because of these tiny changes I get the courage to aim for bigger goals!

My Summer Essentials...because these are HOT!

Can you feel the heat?
I sure can!  As much as I want to turn on our air conditioner in FULL BLAST 24/7, I know I can't handle the electricity bill.  So instead of moping around pitying myself for being a work-from-home mom.  The positive side of me is urging myself to just enjoy the heat!  

And it doesn't hurt that we have summer-related products that I get excited about!  

At a glance.....how do you feel about these?

GirlStuff RAVE Neon Collection and Solique UV-Glow Gel Top Coat Launch

You probably know by now how busy I was last week for the launch of GirlStuff RAVE Neon Polish Collection and Solique UV-Glow Gel Top Coat.  Just a bit of background, the owner Dr. Janina Gutierrez-Tan and I go way back!  It was more than 5 years ago when she emailed me to try her polishes!  Because the quality of GirlStuff polishes are really good, I ended up using at least one polish on my every nail art tutorial posts!  Fast-forward to 2 years later, Janina requested for a meet-up and wanted me to help her launch GirlStuff formally!  For someone who loves her polish like my own, I said YES!  And the rest was history! 

Our 3rd launch in less than 2 years!  I'm sure there will be more to come!  Thanks Janina for the trust.

 

Now back to the collection, when we were planning on how to create a bang for this particular RAVE Neon Polish Summer Collection and Solique UV-Glow Gel Top Coat. Janina had a bright idea on turning a bar pitch black in the afternoon because our age may be out of the calendar but we are definitely young at heart!  (Reality: Lola talaga kami, wala kaming alam! hahaha)

AMW Workshop Series 1: Get Ready For Summer Report

AMW Workshop Series --- has always been a dream of mine for the past 5 years!  Yes, FIVE Freaking Years!  It was always written on my "wishlist" whenever I have a new planner and I guess, the best of "Scaredy-cat ME" always wins!

For me to finally push it through, I've created an evil plan, a plan to counteract my fear and shyness (yes guys, I'm shy in real life! Well seriously, shy in terms of marketing myself)  I've decided to announce to all my good friends by December on my "Workshop Plans".  As they say, the power to success to is CLAIM it!  And I did!  By blabbering about it at the same time, changing my blog template and included a WORKSHOP Category.  Knowing me, seeing it "blank" makes me feel uneasy!  So I know it will push me to the limit to be Pro-active about it, and it worked!

The day, March 5, 2016 finally happened!  And I couldn't be happier!  

AMW Workshop Series 1: Get Ready For Summer
Class Picture

Of course, this won't be possible without the help of my dear sponsors!  And yes, they are all printed in my first AMW Workshops Bag (Thanks to my dear sister-in-law Grace @Archaic_Era for helping me out with this giveaway tote!)

AMW Workshop Series by Nikki Tiu...Get Ready For Summer *FULL*

Today is finally the day I'll be sharing what I've been busy working on for the past month!   This has always been my dream to create my own Brand of workshop series!  Teaching has always been my first love and I'm glad this time, I can combine my love for beauty with teaching!  With words of encouragement from friends, family and AMW Readers, with the grace of God, this is finally happening!  My baby is here!  AMW Workshop Series by Nikki Tiu

Part 1 GET READY FOR SUMMER

I planned to have this on my blog's 8th year anniversary (January 28) or on the weekend of my birthday (February 28 is my birthday).  BUT, the year started out quite challenging so the date was moved to March 5th which is also a blessing in disguise because it paved way for me and brands to work closer together to make this happen!

When: March 5, 2016 (Saturday)

Time: 2:00pm-4:30pm

Where: SanCoCo (San Francisco Coffee)
Price: Php2,500.00/head

As much as I would like this to be a FREE workshop like I mostly do with other brands, I hope you understand that the amount you pay will definitely be worth it!  We get a good location (SanCoCo Coffee located at HV Dela Costa), the coffee shop started out just a couple of months ago and I already checked out the place and it is definitely a perfect place for my first workshop!  You get Coffee, snacks and 2.5 hours of makeup and skincare learning!  Aside from that, all attendees get to bring home goodies from wonderful sponsors (worth more than what you pay for I promise!)  

AND AND AND...

That's not it!  Attendees also get to win awesome prizes too!  Hey, this is my first workshop to kick off a wonderful series so the first will always be special so I made sure to make YOU feel special!  So please follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat (@AskMeWhats) as I may put up a teaser photo on what attendees get to bring home and what they also get to "win"!  Some prizes are already in my room at the moment and I'm feeling oh-so-giddy and excited!

For my first workshop, I will only be accepting a total of 12 attendees!  Sorry, the place is small and I want to make it more intimate, at the same time, for attendees to really learn the basics of skincare and makeup tips perfect for summer!  All you need to do is to fill up registration form HERE and I will email you back a confirmation email for payment details and other information needed.  This is a FIRST COME FIRST SERVE basis so even if I won't be able to answer emails immediately, the participants included will be based on the date and time I received the registration form.  Again, first 12 participants only girls! 

Are you excited?
I surely am!

Thank you so much to the wonderful sponsors who were so easy to talk to!  Thanks for being part of the first ever AMW Workshop and I am looking forward for more to come!  I hope to meet and see you gorgeous girl on March 5!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

 

AMW Wears: Fly Shades Holiday 2015

So I recently received a package from Fly Shades included are some of the Holiday 2015 Collection.  I personally think they should offer this "kit" on sale because I really LOVE the box and use this to store my current sunglasses.

One of my favorite out of the 3 is called Celle.  This design screams classy and modern. 

AMW Wears: Fly Shades Summer 2015 Collection #EyeWearFly

The weather is getting warmer every day!
Indeed, the reality is here, it is summer!  And here we go slathering on our favorite sunblock lotion and creams!  Have you considered protecting your eyes as well?

I know I'm always diligent when it comes to protecting my eyes wherever I go!  Thanks to Fly Shades for sending me this year's summer collection and a nice postcard with a GORGEOUS face on it!  Can you spot it?  :P 

How To: Simple Make Up For Glass Wearers

It's Photo-torial day!
So one reader, obviously a glass-wearer, requested for a tutorial on simple makeup for girls like her who want to look good but have the specks that could cover half of the face!

I am not a glass-wearer, so I rummaged through my eyeglasses drawer and found one from Fly Shades!  #Lucky

Here's how smart I look with glasses on!

So what is my version of a simple makeup for glass wearers like you and ME? (for this post only)

Tadah!

Before and After

FLY Mid-Year Collection 2014

Humpy Day! How's your Wednesday so far?
Sunglasses!  I love them to death!  I remembered not leaving the house without at least 1 pair of sunglass!  And mind you, there are times I bring 2 or 3 just because I want to make sure it works with my outfit! (arte ba?) 

And Fly Shades isn't new to me as I have been using their sunglasses for quite some time, aside from the fact that they are partly owned by my really good friend, I really like the designs they came up with and for a sunglass that is inexpensive, as long as you take good care of them, I have them for years!

And thankfully, I'm not out-of-the-loop when it comes to sunglasses fashion!  Here's 2014 mid-year collection!  And mind you, after this post, these glasses went straight to the people who loves to wear sunglasses too!  My family!  1 goes to my sister-in-law, aunt and dad-in-law!  Sharing is really caring and I don't mind giving these to people who can use them dearly!

Something New: Fly Summer Collection

Last month, in between packing for my US trip and moving, I received a lovely basket from Fly Shades perfect for Summer Collection.  Who wouldn't feel good receiving such cute basket?

photo taken from AskMeWhats instagram account

The 3 shades I got are more on the "hip and young" side, it doesn't mean a mid-30s woman like me can't wear them!  I actually took all 3 shades along with me on my US trip!  I can't wait to wear them back home too!

Something New: Fly Shades' Mid Year 2013 Collection

How are you AMW friends?  

I received Fly's Mid Year collection for quite some time but due to bad weather, I haven't really got to wear them!  But let me tell you, I have a favorite out of the 3 shades I got!  Tell me yours at the end of this post okay?

Kendall

More after the jump...

AMW x Fly Shades Give: 5 Pairs of Summer Glasses! --- CLOSED!

UPDATE: Congratulations Ms. Leyanna Fortes!  I have already sent you an email.  Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be picked.  Thanks everyone for joining!

 ---------------------------

Happy Friday AMW readers! :) Today is a happy day as I'm finally sharing another giveaway!  This time, I want to thank our dear friends from FLY Shades for providing 5 pairs of gorgeous shades for any season!  I know the rainy season may come and go but in my heart, everyday is a perfect summer day and everyday is definitely a "wear-your-perfect" shades day!

Here are the 5 pairs of shades the lucky AMW winner gets!

Sari 

in Green Clear

AMW Wears: FLY Summer Collection 2013

Remember my first set of Fly Shades which I got early this year? (Read post HERE).  Well, after receiving such wonderful set of shades, I actually visited their stall and bought a couple more as Christmas gifts for friends!  I have to be honest, I scoured the stall and nearly got all the designs I want and I have never thought they will come up with more designs in just a couple of months after!

Introducing, FLY's Summer Collection for 2013!  

Summer shades #1

Van

Very classy! I love the old-rose gold frame that goes so well with any outfit!  Oh, all my gold-colored FLY shades never rust on me!  All you have to do is to wipe it before you put it in a case or glass drawer!

 

 Summer shades #1
Sari 

Gradiation of yellow and brown gives a wonderful impact to this classy looking sunglasses!  I love pairing this with a simple dress!

Summer shades #3

 Cayman

Reflecting Aviator glasses in white!  I call this my "hip" Aviator and I enjoy paring this during hot summer months with my pair of trustee maternity shorts and sleeveless top!  All I need to do is lounge in a yacht and I call that....."feeling like a model" look! :P

Summer shades #4
Laguna 

A geek-on-vacation!  That's how I call this glass as this works perfectly if you want to look smart yet will still be able to protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun!  Paired with your favorite floral/polka-dotted top, you can be back to the 70's or you can pair this with a simple shirt and jeans!

Summer glass #5 
Cat

A cool geek!  I used to wear glasses when I was younger for astigmatism but I never thought of wearing any of these glasses for fashion!  Now, I might! :)

AMW wears CAT

photo taken from Instagram (AskMeWhats)

I was actually tired from a very busy day and this pair hid my dark undereye circles during nighttime!  *winks*

AMW wears Van

I visited my mom and was too lazy to wear any makeup so I just tied my hair up and wore a trustee Aviator shades!  So far, so good!  It's nice to let my skin breathe once in awhile as I enjoy my favorite snack! 

 

AMW wears Laguna

On very sunny day, this works for me as the shades' tint is a bit darker than the rest I own in this collection.  It gives my eyes the protection I need without much squinting and this photo was taken during a lovely drinking session at Dakasi Milk Tea! :D

**The price of Fly Shades ranges around Php250.00-400.00.  Please LIKE Fly Shades on Facebook to get updated on their newest collection!

Which among the FLY Summer Collection suits your face frame?  

Please LIKE AskMeWhats on Facebook 
Follow AskMeWhats on Twitter  
Get "photo-updated" on Instagram (search "AskMeWhats")

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
 
(Product received for PR purpose.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

Weekend Food Trip at: Manang's Chicken

Happy Sunday AMW Friends!  Thank you so much for the wonderful birthday greetings I received over the week and it was surreal as I felt like I know each and every one of you through blogging! :)  Can we have a group hug please?  *hugs*

A usual laid-back Sunday was put on hold last week as I had to do some errands with the ever sweet hubby!  We had brunch before we left home and headed to wherever the meeting should be (yes, on a Sunday!)  and we went straight to my mom's place to drop by some documents after paying our bills at SM Sta. Mesa. I promise you that I steered away from Ilocos Empanada for a change and focused on eating something else!  Come on, who wants an orange colored baby?  *knocks on wood*  hahaha

It was funny as Mr. AMW was craving for Casa Naimas Bibingka so we drove to Tomas Morato, after picking up his Bibingka take away, we've decided to use the gift certificate we have from Manang's Chicken.

The first and last time I've tried Manang's Chicken was a year ago during Best Food Forward event (blog post HERE).  Don't get me wrong, I love the chicken but I haven't been back because I was staying away from eating chicken as I do get some allergies on them! 

Fast forward, I'm glad Manang's Chicken has broadened their menu and they have pork dishes available for customers like ME! 

I was really hungry at 3pm so I headed straight to the counter to give my orders!  *laughs*

Here's the overview of what we had for the day!

 Macaroni Salad Regular

Buttered Corn Regular

Php29.00 each (approx $0.73)

The Macaroni Salad is a huge check same as buttered corn!  These are 2 side dishes I would always order in any restaurant and I'm glad Manang's Chicken didn't go wrong offering these!

 Large Chips with 2 Dips

available dips: Creamy Cheese, Garlic Mayo and Spicy Ketchup

Php64.00 (approx $1.60)

Really crispy, thinly sliced potatoes that works so well with Garlic Mayo (my favorite out of all the dips).  I like the fact that the potatoes weren't soaked in oil!

Garlic Pork Fillet Meal

Php109.00 (approx $2.73)

This meal comes with 2 free drinks, both I had Lemonade while Mr. AMW went for Iced tea.  The Garlic Pork Fillet is very crispy and fried into perfection.  If you're not a fan of garlic chips, I strongly suggest you ask to have these garlic bits separated as it could overwhelm you.  As for me, I'm okay with it.  The dip isn't the usual gravy but vinegar dip instead.

 

Red Velvet Sundae

Php49.00 (approx $ 1.23)

The Red Velvet Sundae is supposed to be available only for the month of February but I was told they will extend it until March 31, 2013!  Yay!!! Both Mr. AMW and I enjoyed the warm red velvet cake as creamy soft smooth vanilla ice cream melts inside our mouth!  The extra sprinkles reminded us so much of our childhood days we had to close our eyes and enjoy the moment!

 

 Overall, I'm happy the restaurant offers variation of "Barkada Sets" (Group Sets) that would help us save money at the same time enjoy variety of food they offer! 

Overall, prices were reasonable and I took a peek at their kitchen area and they're quite clean at the Tomas Morato branch that we visited!  They have FREE WIFI for dine-in customers to the social savvy out there!

Before I end this post, you may be interested to join their "Eat, Snap, Win" Photo Contest running until March 31, 2013.  Anyone who dine at Manang's Chicken can submit their photo entries on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter to win an exclusive lunch treat!  Full mechanics can be viewed on their FB Page. 

AMW wearing one of Fly Shades' Newest Summer Collection on a no makeup day!

Have you tried Manang's Chicken?
Did you enjoy your dining experience?

Please LIKE AskMeWhats on Facebook 
Follow AskMeWhats on Twitter  
Get "photo-updated" on Instagram (search "AskMeWhats")

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Wears: Fly Shades' Latest Collection

Happy Friday AMW friends, I hope it's a lovely sunny day today as I'll be featuring my latest collection of Fly Shades.  A little bit of background regarding the brand, Mr. AMW and I bought a similar Fly Shades years ago and we marked it as our "couple shades", the glass is interchangeable and we loved it so much we wore it each time we went out!  (aren't we cute nerds?)

Over the years, I do check out Fly Shades' newest collection at their random shops (check my Fly Shades purchase last year HERE) and little did I know that Fly Shades was actually co-owned by my very good friend's husband!  (small world eh?)  Through the years, the brand has broadened its collection and I can definitely spot better quality, better looking, chic designed shades perfect for all ages!

The newest collection isn't an exception, I got the set as a gift from them and I can't seem to pick the favorite as I love them all!

**Note from AMW: sorry but I do not know the names of each pair so numbering them will do for now! :D

 Fly Shades #1 

The shades is quite unique and I love it that it gives a huge "oomph" to my plain, simple outfit!  I actually wore this shades when I tote my Guedez Industria Bag in Desert. 

Fly Shades #2

This glass may be too round for my taste but once worn, it actually works well on my face shape and it gives a nice classic vibe!  This very round shaped glass reminded me so much of the Women's Marc by Marc Jacobs round sunglasses that was a huge hit! 

Fly Shades #3

This is turning out to be my favorite pair out of the collection that I received.  You know how I realized that?  I actually went to visit the Fly Shades booth again and picked this one and purchased the exact same pair without knowing I already own one!  My oh my!

Fly Shades #4

The Aviator glasses has been a hit for many years and I actually own a Rayban version in black but I'm glad to own something as fancy as this housed on a white frame!  White-framed sunglasses has always been a hit for me as I love the "cool" vibe it exudes! 

Fly Shades #5

Love the unique red color that gives an extra "oomph" to normal-looking aviators.
Shall I give you that: "I don't care how you feel" attitude? *meh*

Fly Shades #6

Another great pair I wouldn't mind wearing on days I want to look mysterious and classy!  The gold side-frame gives a nice touch of class to any outfit! I promise you, even if you wear a simple white tee and plain old jeans!  This spells: "I'M A MILLIONAIRE!" :P

Here are just 2 photos taken using my Fly Shades!

Fly Aviator shades worked so well with my makeup-less face!  I was too lazy to apply any makeup on first day of January and I just went for a simple family lunch so I opted for bare face with my trustee shades!

The price of Fly Shades ranges around Php250.00-400.00.  Again, as long as you take care of them, they may last you years!  Please LIKE Fly Shades on Facebook to get updated on their newest collection!

Which one among the 6 pairs I featured in this post is your favorite?


Please LIKE AskMeWhats on Facebook 
Follow AskMeWhats on Twitter 
Get "photo-updated" on Instagram (search "AskMeWhats")

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Product received for PR purpose.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)