As a breast cancer survivor, busy mum of 2, captain of a tennis team and part time radio presenter - how do you find time for yourself?
Sometimes it can get a bit tough - and as I try to make time for my mum too - she lives on other side of island, all the driving and logistics can do my head in. But, playing tennis with my friends, spending down time with kids, having Friday night drinks with fave people, and massages help soothe my soul and keep me happy and sane!
What does embracing your best self mean to you?
Accepting all of me - warts and all! I used to wish for longer legs, trimmer tummy, bigger boobs but after I got cancer, I realised that all of my physical bits are important; they make me, ME. And also what character flaws I didn't like about myself can be changed and worked on - I can change them but 1st I have to accept that i have them!
What is your style?
Casual and comfortable!
What makes you feel good? Looking in the mirror - and being happy with what I see! When my clothes fit, and I feel comfortable (or else I literally get a headache)
What did you like about the pieces you were styled in?
The lovely dress was not my usual style but i actually loved the look - the color and cut of the dress made me feel like a grown up! The romper was very comfortable to wear too!
I love love love the choker - it is a great accent piece - I love chain pieces! Also the earrings are lovely - a tad heavier than what i am used to. The wrap leather and silver bracelet is absolutely my style - it’s a versatile piece that can go with most of my wardrobe! Putting it on my Santa List now!
Complete the sentence, I think women should embrace all of ourselves...
and forgive ourselves more. We are too hard on ourselves, with all the demands we have - from being a mother, wife, daughter, work…if we cant do it all perfectly at once, it is ok. Accept whatever shortcomings we have and be more forgiving. Sometimes you just need to take a break, take a deep breath and you will find the right path.
What strategies did you use to stay mentally and physically strong during your cancer treatment and recovery?
Just to take it one step at a time. Sometimes the whole picture can be overwhelming. So if it’s a seemingly big task or mountain to climb, just figure out next step and focus on that. It applies to a match as well. Just the next step is all you need to focus on. Then when you look back, you will be amazed at the distance you have covered, one step at a time. Many steps make a mile!
How has your experience as a breast cancer survivor influenced your perspective on life and your priorities?
Life is too short - and too much crap is going on - whether it’s people or just issues. Cut out the noise and unnecessary and zoom in on what’s important. In my case - my family and close friends. Those stay and the noise, the nonsense, just don't let it bother you. Let the bad stuff go.
Can you share a particularly meaningful or inspiring moment from your journey that has stayed with you?
When my father was in the hospital for his cancer (he passed away 18 years ago) I was taking time every day to see him in hospital - lunch and after work and sometimes took time off for him. So he was worried that I was away from work too much. So I told him that it’s ok, there will be other work but I only have 1 father. So in the end, I did sort of get into trouble with work but i am still glad i took time off for dad as he passed away 2 months after that. And he died knowing how important he was to me. And when I had cancer, my best friend took time in her busy schedule to sit with me during all my chemotherapy sessions. So make time for the important people in your life. Your time is the most precious gift you can give.
What message would you like to share with other women who may be navigating their own personal and professional challenges?
Don't rush into a decision - it has to feel right in your gut. And trust yourself - you know better than anyone what works for you.
Time to clean out those jewellery drawers! Do something meaningful this International Women’s Day, donate your pre-loved jewellery for a good cause!
After 5 years, we are bringing back the Re-Embrace charity drive in collaboration with the Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO). In-kind donations collected will be resold by New2U Thrift Shop, where 100% of proceeds will go towards SCWO in support of women and children who have faced domestic violence, women who require legal advice and women and girls who need our care to achieve Equal Space, Equal Voice and Equal Worth.
From 8 March to 8 May
Embrace Jewellery is proud to champion Singapore’s first and only pre-loved jewellery donation drive in Singapore - Empowered Women Empower Women.
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Lock it in! Spend $150 on jewellery and get this UNOde50 Leather Cord Charm Bracelet for FREE! While stocks last. Available online & all 3 of our stores!
]]>Come celebrate with us this Saturday afternoon (2-4pm) at Embrace+, Tanglin Mall. Prosecco and mini cupcakes on us!
We've got loads instore for you:
Sneak peek of our new arrivals!
NEW Embrace Vacay Collection
NEW Prints from Indii Breeze
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We're a little spoilt for choice when it comes to Spanish restaurants in SG. Here's a few of our favourites!
Lolla - Ann Siang Hill
Gather a few friends, order a mix of small and big plates and share everything. Start with the bread & butter. That Kombu Butter is amazing! The Sea Urchin Pudding is so good, you'll want a double portion. Finish off with Lemon Donuts. Yum!
Esquina - Jiak Chuan Road
Tiny space, so you gotta fight for a table. Food is consistently good, and great for sharing. We enjoyed the Grilled Spanish Octopus and the Uni and Lobster Paella here.
FOC - Hong Kong Street
Reservations are a must at this place. You can't go wrong with their Crystal Bread and Jamon Iberico. Love their take on Patatas Bravas! The FOC Mini Chocolate Burger is an interesting way to finish.
Thank you for your OVERWHELMING generosity! All thanks to you, this year we collected 3280 donations for the New2U Thrift Store run by The Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO).
The Re-Embrace donation drive - SG's first and only donation drive for pre-loved jewellery and accessories ran from Mar 8 to May 8 and was extended for 2 weeks. Our staff helped clean, sort and sterilise the items and they were all dropped off at SCWO to be re-sold at New2U, with all proceeds going to Star Shelter, a temporary refuge for women & children who are survivors of domestic violence.
If you made a contribution to the donation drive, thank you for showing your support for women in need! All donors qualify for the lucky draw with prizes worth over $2000!
Here's the final batch of winners and we'll be in touch shortly!
VLUM Necklace - Kate Lee
Embrace Gems Earrings - Linda Tom
Embrace Gems Earrings - Grace Tay
Velatti Necklace - Selena Ong
Velatti Earrings - Stella Kim
J Keyer Emma Bag worth $680 - Patricia Lim
Following the highly successful launch of Re-Embrace Donation Drive last year, we are excited to announce its return from 8 March to 20 May 2018 in conjunction with the celebration of International Women’s Day.
Re-Embrace Donation Drive is the first and only jewellery and accessories donation drive in Singapore and is a meaningful collaboration between Embrace Jewellery and the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO) and it aims to create greater awareness of the presence of SCWO’s Star Shelter and its work in offering shelter for women and children who have survived domestic violence.
We believe in empowering women and helping women in need – alongside SCWO’s aims and initiatives of providing women with various platforms to promote 'Equal Space, Equal Voice and Equal Worth’, the Re-Embrace donation drive's objective is to encourage more people to donate their pre-loved jewellery pieces and accessories which will then be re-sold at SCWO’s New2U Thrift Shop where all the money raised will go to SCWO’s causes, as well as to the Star Shelter which is a temporary refuge for women and children who are victims of domestic violence.
Last year, we received an amazing 2,909 donations from you, and are extremely grateful for your support! Aside from donating your pre-loved jewellery this year, there are 2 more ways to help our cause!
1. Donate Your Pre-loved Jewellery & Accessories
You may drop your pieces at any of these 3 locations from 8 March to 8 May:
- Embrace Jewellery, Takashimaya level 3, the Gift Box
- Kai Life, Holland Road Shopping Centre, #02-04
- Embrace+ (new store opening 8 April), Tanglin Mall
We accept all ‘pre-loved’ costume jewellery or accessories (e.g sunglasses, wallets, cuff links, etc) that are in good condition with no scratches, chips or tarnish. However, we will not accept fine jewellery in gold or set with diamonds or precious stones. There is no minimum pieces of jewellery or accessories per donation required.
Donate 3 or more pieces to receive a $5 shopping voucher to use at our stores. Plus, a chance to win lucky draw prizes of up to $3000!
2. Purchase a Handmade Bracelet
We have partnered with SCWO to sell charm bracelets which are handmade by women from SCWO’s Star Shelter. These bracelets are made with waxed cotton threads and beads, the charm bracelets are priced at $25 each and are available in brown, black and blue with a variety of meaningful charms.
There are limited pieces available and 100% of the proceed from the sales of these bracelets will go towards the Star Shelter and other SCWO initiatives. Get yours at Kai Life (Holland V) and Embrace+ (Tanglin Mall).
3. Shed Light on the Cause with Social Media
Help us raise awareness against domestic violence by taking a selfie with your finger on lips – this aims to signify that abuse against women is more prevalent than people think as women are often afraid to speak up, especially when it comes to domestic violence. Post your selfie on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtags, #ReEmbraceSG and #SpeakUpAgainstDomesticViolence
As a gesture of appreciation for their participation in the charity drive, all donors who donate a minimum of three pieces of their pre-loved jewellery and accessories will also be eligible for our weekly lucky draw, which will take place from 8 March to 8 May 2018.
With prizes worth a total of S$3,000 to be won, two to three lucky donors will be chosen each week from 23 March to 11 May 2018. Prizes include jewellery by the Embrace Collection, Velatti and Vlum, which are all available exclusively at Embrace Jewellery, as well as J Keyer's EMMA leather bag worth $680. The lucky lady of the EMMA bag will get the opportunity to experience J Keyer's Bespoke service at Embrace+ and walk away with a unique customised EMMA bag!
All winners will be notified by email.
Stay tuned here or check out our Instagram & Facebook for more updates! Help us spread the word with #ReEmbraceSG :)
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This place ticks all the boxes for date night. Stunning views (especially at sunset), lovely decor and sexy looking cocktails & food! The new Panamericana at Sentosa Golf Club is a casual bar and grill that brings the diversity of the cuisine from 14 countries that span the Pan American highway that stretches through North, South and Central America.
The farm to fire concept features the Asador (Argentinean grill) with small and big plates to share. Start with the Burrata or Bone Marrow, move on to the Lamb done Argentinean style, and finish off with Choc Tart or Date Pudding. Don't miss the cocktails as the former head bartender of (the award-winning) Manhatten Bar at The Regent, is now Panamerica's Beverage Manager.
Panamericana
Sentosa Golf Club
27 Bukit Manis Road
Singapore 099892
T +65 6253 8182
Now that the NEW Embrace+ is at Tanglin Mall, we're getting acquainted with our neighbours and we're pleased to report there's a whole bunch of great lunch choices!
Chili's
Fancy a chicken fajita, a good ol' burger or fish & chips? Chili's is offering set lunch deals from $9.90 for a soup or salad & main! What's even better? Their extended set lunches run from 11.30am to 4pm!
Patara Thai Restaurant
Tom Yum Goong, Thai Grilled Chicken or some Pad Thai? This restaurant has been around for a long time and serves up quality Thai food. 3 course set lunches available from $20++
Yantra
How about spicing up your lunch hour with an Indian buffet? Choose from a nice selection of salads, curries, mains, and desserts at this fine dining Indian restaurant from just $33++
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Somedays you just need a good glass of wine (or three), a comfy sofa and good conversation. Head to 10 Scotts at The Grand Hyatt!
They offer a daily dinner buffet for $50++ where the selection isn't extensive but has some nice highlights like cold cuts and cheeses, crab cakes, hot and cold appetisers and an ever-changing main course cooked up by their chef. Plus a dessert tray served up at your table.
From Thursdays to Sundays, there is an option to add on $35++ for free flow wines. You can get to choose from a selection of quality house wines and the free flow runs for up to 4 hours! THE perfect way to start off the weekend and let the conversation flow!
10 Scotts at Grand Hyatt
10 Scotts Rd
Singapore 228211
T +65 6738 1234
You've probably heard about or tasted the delicious egg tarts at Tai Cheong Bakery at Holland V (worth every calorie). This famous HK Cha Chaan Teng restaurant opened its first dine-in outlet here in late 2016.
While most people know the place only for their egg tarts and pastries, we tried a couple of other dishes and one in particular keeps us going back!
The 3 coloured silky egg with rice comprises of a HUGE omelette filled with green veggies, and your choice of beef, pork or prawns (or a combination). The omelette is fluffly, filling and the prawns (our choice) are fresh! Pour the soya based sauce over the rice and you've got yourself the perfect one dish meal for $9.90! The beef brisket curry is nice and thick, and we've also been tempted by the scrambled eggs on toast stacked on top a crisp chicken chop. Great for a quick meal or a takeaway!
Tai Cheong Bakery (Holland V)
31 Lorong Liput
Singapore 277742
+65 8223 1954
Their promise? No MSG in their broth. Still tasted pretty good when we tried the wild mushroom broth at Long Qing Hotpot along HK street.
We loved that their selection of meats are from Huber's Butchery and included US Shortribs and Iberico Pork. Good cuts of meat are essential for a quality hot pot experience!
The handmade prawn and fish paste was another favourite. And you can get all the other favourites like quail's eggs and fried beancurd skin. Finish off with the crispy yam ball which unfortunately was sold out the day we went.
A satisfying hotpot experience especially since you can reserve a table ahead of time, instead of trying to beat the queues at other hotpot joints.
Long Qing Hot Pot
18 Hong Kong Street
Singapore 059661
+65 6533 1618
An oldie but a goodie. We haven't been round the Greenwood Ave area for some time and decided to visit La Braceria. We went back twice in a week!
No frills, good Italian food at good prices. Decor is simple but pleasant with a nice size terrace, but if you're craving for no frills Italian, this is a sure bet.
Our favourite? The Homemade Fettucine with Black Autumn Truffles. Generous shavings of truffle, pasta done Al Dente. Priced at $38. That's all we needed to satisfy our pasta pangs. Pizzas are served piping hot from the pizza oven, with a nice crisp crust & good amount of toppings. For mains, we're lusting after the Grilled Baby Lamb Rack which we'll be back to try.
La Braceria
5 Greendale Avenue
Singapore 289501
+65 6465 5918
The name says it all. Five Ten - where all appetisers are $5 and mains are $10. At those prices, you should manage your expectations when it comes to portion size, but thankfully not when it comes to flavours.
This newly opened casual diner is inspired by the flavours of Taiwanese street food with a South East Asian touch. The Brussel Sprouts, and Fried Chicken from the Appetisers list got a thumbs up, but it was the Hoisin Pork Ribs that blew us away. The sirloin steak wasn't bad either, considering the price. We'll be back to try the house speciality Lu Rou which is pork braised in a house special sauce, served up with rice, veggies and a sous vide egg - all for a $10 lunch.
Five Ten
237 South Bridge Road (former CATO)
T +65 6924 9752
Coffee and Brunch. A weekend must-do for most of us. Here’s a great spot if you find yourself in Orchard Road craving for a good brew.
Born in Hong Kong 5 years ago in bustling Causeway Bay, The Coffee Academics have now expanded to Shanghai & Singapore and set its sights on Beijing, Tokyo & Paris! The main reason to visit this cafe is the coffee, of course. Served in a cup or in an ice cream cone!
The food at their flagship store at Scotts Square is a little hit and miss. We would go back for the Crab & Avocado Salad, as well as the Umami Pasta with shrimp, chili and bonito flakes. The other items on the menu were average. Desserts look to be a hit with the 3 tier Academics Pancake Tower being the most popular and insta-worthy, the HK Egglet Waffle with mango, milk tea ice cream & salted egg yolk sauce is another best seller.
We like the light-filled space and vibe of the cafe. When you’re next at Scotts Square, pop into fashion boutique Trixilini on the 3rd level for some gorgeous threads! The Embrace house collection is now available there too, so you can shop for both fashion & jewellery at the same time!
The Coffee Academics
#02-01/02, Scotts Square
6 Scotts Road
Singapore 228209
Opening hours:
Mon – Thurs, 9am – 10pm
Fri & Sat, 9am – 1030pm
Sun, 9am – 930pm
Trixilini Fashion Boutique
#03-08/09, Scotts Square
(Images courtesy of The Coffee Academics.)
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In the mood for inventive Japanese cuisine? Check out Akira Back, one of the recent openings at JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach. Award-wining Chef Back was born in Korea and raised in Colorado. Having worked as a part time chef to supplement his income while pursuing his dream as a professional snowboarder, he realised he found the same thrill in the kitchen as on the slopes. He went on to trained under some of the world’s best and opened an upscale restaurant in Las Vegas to rave reviews. He has since appeared on Iron Chef America against celebrity chef Bobby Flay and various other Food Network programs.
The dining room at Akira Back is lush and soothing. One of the first things that strike you is the artwork both on the walls and on the plates! It sets the tone for a creative meal. The Tuna Pizza with ponzu mayo & truffle oil is crisp, light and amazing. The 48 hour braised short rib was impressive, and we also enjoyed the Ji-dori Chicken with truffle potato puree & teriyaki. We’ll be back!
Akira Back
30 Beach Road, Level B1M
JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach
Singapore 189763
T +65 6818 1914
Opening Hours:
Sun – Thurs, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10:30pm
Fri & Sat, 12pm -3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Re-Embrace Women in Need
Thank YOU for opening your hearts and your jewellery drawers to women in need, and making the first pre-loved jewellery donation drive in Singapore a success! Over a 10 week period from 28 Mar 2017, we received 2909 donations! All items have been donated to SCWO’s New 2U Thrift Store for sale, and all the money raised will go to SCWO’s causes, as well as to the Star Shelter which is a temporary refuge for women and kids who are victims of domestic violence. We have been so touched by your generosity and your support!
The feedback from SCWO has been great. The donated accessories and jewellery were the highlight of their New 2U Bazaar held in May 2017, and they have enough accessories now for the rest of the year. Embrace Jewellery not only championed the idea of the drive, our staff helped in sorting and cleaning the donated items, and packed them individually making it much easier for the SCWO volunteers to price and display the items.
Watch this space as we’ll definitely be back with another charity donation drive next year, and don’t throw out those pre-loved jewellery or accessories that you’ve outgrown! They could be going towards a very good cause.
The Star Shelter
A temporary refuge for women and their children who are survivors of domestic violence. It is a place where they can heal from the trauma of abuse and be empowered to rebuild their lives free from violence.
The lunch sets at Joël Robuchon start from $950 baht++ (SIN$38++) for 2 courses. It is a steal!
And we’re not talking small tasting portions, but substantial portions of a good variety of appetisers, mains, cheeses & desserts to choose from.
Do not miss the Roasted Lamb Rack for 2 which was just stunning! The cheese selections are something else as well. Finish off with complimentary lemon madeleines & truffles.
Write it into your itinerary!
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
5th Floor, MahaNakhon Cube
96Narathiwas Ratchanakharin Rd (next to Chong Nonsi BTS)
Bangkok 10500
+66 (0)2 001 0698
Last year you voted us as one of the recommended retailers for Accessories/ Jewellery and this year THANK YOU for making us your 3rd favourite in Expat Living Readers Award 2016 – Best Jewellery/ Accessories Retailer!
Our promise to you is to keep bringing you unique, stylish jewellery from around the world and keep those prices affordable.
Please don’t stop spreading the word.
]]>When Michelin dished out the stars for their Singapore edition, Candlenut caught our eye. We are always on the hunt for good Peranakan food, and couldn’t resist getting the girls together for a treat.
Reservations are a must at this set dinner only restaurant. For $68++, you’ll be served up four appetisers and five mains (in sharing portions). The kurobuta pork satay was grilled to perfection and really tender, and the Peranakan Signature Buah Keluah Black Nut Sambal Pork Dumpling was really unique. Mum’s chicken curry was really satisfying as was the rendang. Durian fans don’t miss the Durian Soup with Mao Shan Wang Ice Cream! Oh yeah they’ll be moving soon to Dempsey so make sure you call beforehand!
Candlenut
Dorsett Residences
331 New Bridge Road
8121 4107
While we love gemstones for their colour, shine and how naturally gorgeous they are, doesn’t hurt to know which ones will bring a little more love or positive energy into our life. Info from energymuse.com
Agate – Oldest of healing stones. Brings courage, emotional strength and self confidence.
Amethyst – Natural stress reliever. Brings inner strength, repels negative energy and attracts positive energy
Aquamarine – Clears the mind, balances emotions. In ancient times, seamen carried this stone to protect them against the dangers of the sea
Aventurine – Said to attract luck, abundance and success. Comforts, harmonizes and protects the heart, helping to attract love
Carnelian – Increases physical energy, brings you courage, compassion and a boost in creativity. Great stone to wear to a job interview!
Citrine – A stone of light & happiness. Does not hold any negative energy. Brings clarity to those who wear it and helps to manifest anything you want in life
Freshwater Pearls – Considered the bringer of light, beauty and love
Jade – Helps you attain your goals and dreams. Allows you to see past self imposed limitations
Labradorite – Stimulates your intuition. Allows you to see through illusions and determine the actual form of your dreams and goals
Lapis – Helps foster verbal expression. Provides wisdom and connects you to your spiritual guardians, shielding you from negative energy.
Moonstone – Worn to increase fertility and hamonise the mind. Providing health and protection
Mother of Pearl – Valued for its powerful healting energy, Known to alleviate fear, promote prosperity and good luck
Onyx – Protective stone. Absorbs and transfers negative energy. Helps to calm your fears, leaving you feeling stable and secure
Rose Quartz – Stone of unconditional love. Clears out anger, jealousy and resentment towards others and allows the heart to heal
Smoky Quartz – Helps to ground you. Assists in removing mental and emotional blockages, relieves pain
Turquoise – Known as the master healer. Fosters honest and open communications from the heart. Strengthen the overall bonding
]]>We also want to thank the following for all the love and features;
coconutssg
Divaasia.com
Elle
Female Magazine
glamasia.com
Herworldplus.com
Luxe Society
mariefranceasia.com
materialworld.com
Simply Her
Simplyfabulicious.com
stylexstyle
The Singapore Women’s Weekly
Time Out Singapore
The Shopperati Network
Weekender
WTFSG
Urban
40plusstyle