Beauty: Celine's Salon, Best and Chic-est Salon in Gensan

Celine’s Salon is a chic and new salon located at SunCity Complex, National Highway, General Santos City. It opened last July 26, 2014. It is owned and managed by Ms. Michelline Sun.

Façade of Celine’s Salon

Mission

Celine’s Salon’s mission is to provide a one-of-a-kind pampering experience to all the ladies and gentlemen of General Santos City. Once you come in, they guarantee you great customer service and VIP treatment fit for a king or a queen.

Salon Services

Celine’s Salon boasts a wide variety of hair, nails, make-up and waxing services using imported and branded products such as L’oreal, Davines and Schwarkopf for hair and Zoya, Essie and Orly nail polishes that are not readily available in other salons.

 

Celine’s Salon choices of Imported Nail Polish

To complete your pampering experience, they provide complimentary tea/coffee/juice and snacks such as popcorn/cookies.

If you forgot to bring your iPads or tablets, no need to worry! At Celine’s Salon, they'll let you use their in-house tablets/iPads.

Celine’s Salon In-House Tablets and iPads

Other Photos of Celine's Salon

A Vanity Mirror that's to die for.

Couches fit for a king or queen.

Floor-to-ceiling mirrors.

On-Going Promos

·         If you checked-in at Celine’s Salon on Facebook, you get to avail 10% discount on all Hair Services and 20% on your Haircut. Simply show the Senior Stylist your check-in status.

·         Take a photo of yourself while at Celine’s Salon, upload on your Facebook account, and tag @celinesalonph on your status and you get to avail 10% discount on all Hair Services and 20% on your Haircut. Simply show the Senior Stylist your check-in status.

·         Place #iheartcelinesalon or #celinesalonheartyou on your Facebook status or photo upload and you get to avail 10% discount on all Hair Services and 20% on your Haircut. Simply show the Senior Stylist your check-in status.

Say bye-bye to unwanted hair.

To all gals battling frizzy hair, this is the SOLUTION that you have all been waiting for.

They love the Students!!!! That's why they are giving them huge discounts!

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FOOD: Noodle House, A Taste of Korea in Gensan

Are you a sucker for Korean Food? Then you should definitely try out SM City Gensan's new food court tenant, the Noodle House.

Noodle House opened their first branch here in Gensan last August 01, 2014 at SM City Gensan Food Court. 

As part of their opening activities, they offered FREE meals to the first 20 diners and 30% discount to their succeeding customers. Too bad their promo was only during their opening day. However, they are offering a 10% discount to Senior Citizens and Students. Just make sure to bring your I.D.s and present it to the cashier in order to avail this discount. 

Their prices are really affordable so I don't think having a discount really matters (but it helps though, LOL). The value meals usually range from Php 75 - Php 95.

Pork Bibimbap

Their value meal includes your main dish, soup, iced tea, and of course, Korean Kimchi.

I've tried out their Pork Bibimbap. Bibimbap is a signature Korean dish composed of rice and sauteed mixed vegetables. Noodle House's Bibimbap is composed white rice, sauteed carrots, eggplants and squash, topped with fried egg and seaweeds. 

For only Php 95, you get to avail this whole meal. And yes, your tummy will surely be satisfied with this rice bowl. My advice: mix the toppings with the entire rice first before diving in. This way, the sauce and the toppings are evenly mixed with the rice. I actually ended up eating plain rice when I've reached the bottom of this pile because I immediately dove in. So, be patient and mix first!

 The Kimchi also tastes good. I'm not a huge fan of Kimchi but I totally liked their version. It's not too strong and seems like it was customized to suit a Pinoy's taste buds.

Beef Ramen

If you are not in the mood for rice, Noodle House also serves a wide variety of Ramen. Though Ramen originated from Japan, Korean has adopted this dish and made it their own. 

Their ramen meals also come with iced and Kimchi. 

Caution: Noodle House's dishes are hot, hot, hot and spicy, spicy, spicy.

What also makes the Noodle House experience unique is that your meals are cooked right in front of you and are served fresh and warm.

Owned and operated by a Korean National who invested in Cebu and here in Gensan, Noodle House aims to bring the "Pure Korean Taste" here in our City. 

Come on and try out this fastfood resto now!

Visit Noodle House at 2nd Floor, SM City Gensan Food Court.

MOMMY-WOOD: Kids & Labeling

Photo is not mine. Credit is given to the owner.

Kids...Kids...Kids... You both love them and hate them. They can be both an angel and a devil... An angel when they are sleeping soundly. A devil when they go berserk and throw tantrums. But, no matter how your kids look or behave, there is this one thing that every parent should avoid. BAD LABELING. 

Bad boy! Fat-so! Spoiled brat! Those are just examples of bad labeling. When a child misbehaves, a parent scolds the child and tells them what a bad child they have been. When a child asks for something that the parent doesn't want to give then throws tantrums, the parent would sometimes tell them they are such a spoiled brat. I am guilty of this and I know I am not alone. 

According to an article in a previous issue of Smart Parenting, the parents are doing this to make their child guilty of their behavior in the hopes that they will try to be better. However, this is not an effective way to address the issue since we are highlighting the negative behavior. The tends to focus on this behavior and the situation may become worse.

Photo is not mine. Credit is given to the owner.

I remember telling my two-year old son that he was a bad boy and slap his hand lightly whenever he would do something wrong. However, as time goes by, he would just ignore me whenever I scold him. He no longer cries whenever I slap his hand. Arggghhh! Parenting can be so confusing! 

The article also stated that "things repeatedly said to a child are absorbed automatically". Best thing that a parent can do is use positive/good labeling to encourage your child to behave well. 

When a friend asks you if your child is spoiled, don't let them hear you talk negative about them. Instead, say something positive. Tell your friend that you have a good kid and that you don't have any problem with his/her attitude. And, make sure that your kid hears this! It will boost their confidence and will encourage them to continue their positive behavior.

I'm actually trying out this technique for a couple of weeks now and so far, I think I'm seeing some results on my hyperactive kid. He listens now to what I am saying and wants to prove to me that he is a good boy. I'll give you an update after a month or so.

Photo is not mine. Credit is given to the owner.

At the end of the day, you just really have to be more patient with your toddlers/kids.  If you are not going to love them just the way they are, who else will? 

How about you? Do you have any parenting woes? Come on and share with us! 

FOOD: Beestop's Beest Tasting Garlic Fried Chicken

I've always been a HUGE FAN of Garlic Fried Chicken. I'm actually a huge fan of anything with garlic. Period. ^_^ So, I've started my quest to search for the best tasting garlic chicken in town. And I've finally found it... at Beestop!

With it's delicious and garlicky sauce, you will surely be satisfied with their Single Combo Meal for only Php59.00 with FREE Iced Tea. However, if you are a HEAVY rice eater and prefers a BIGGER chicken, you can always opt to order their Rice Unlimited Combo Meal for only Php89.00 with FREE Iced Tea. Now, isn't this something worth trying?

What I've really like about Beestop's Garlic Fried Chicken is that the flavoring/marinade reached the bones. Unlike other Garlic Chickens that I've tried, once you have eaten the skin and the top coating, the meat of the chicken tastes bland. As in, nothing! As in, you have to ask for soy sauce and vinegar to create your own chicken dip. At Beestop, the flavor doesn't just stops at the chicken skin. It goes all the way to the BONES! Yummy!

You might have also noticed that it is GARLIC FRIED CHICKEN and not just your ordinary Garlic Chicken. This is what set Beestop's product from other restos. The chicken is fried first then the cook does his/her magic. Perfection!

Beestop Dancers during the Beestop Laurel Gensan Grand Opening last May 14, 2013

Diners who availed the Buy 1 Take 1 Promo during the Beestop Laurel's Grand Opening last May 14, 2013

The Facade of Beestop Laurel. Beestop's Main Branch.

Beestop does not only serve best tasting chicken meals but also have other menu to offer the public. They serve Pinoy Meals such as Adobong Kangkong (another fave of mine), Kinilaw (Raw Tuna), and Tuna Belly Meals. They also have a Pancit Piyesta line which offers Pancit Canton, Sotanghon and a Pinoy's favorite, Bihon Guisado. They also have Burgers and Spaghetti for kids and kids at heart.

Beestop has currently four branches all over the Philippines: two in General Santos City, one in Davao City, and one in Bauan, Batangas. A new Beestop branch will be opening soon in Baguio City. 

Beestop is a local food chain that originated in General Santos City and was established in 2007. It is owned and operated by a practicing culinarian from the Gerardo's Culinary School in Gensan.

And guess what, they are open for franchising! For franchising inquiries, you can check out their website at www.beestop.net or contact 09053422156. 

SunCity Suites 4th Night Run: Let's Bring the Fun in Run!

For the past four years, fun runs have become a huge trend here in General Santos City.

However, there is this one, big and blast-ful (it always ends up with a firework display) NightRun that is always above all the rest. Yes, it is the SunCity Suites NightRun Series.

Since 2011, SunCity Suites, one of the leading hotels in General Santos City, hosts the SunCity Suites NightRun, the only successful nightrun in town.

As part of their Corporate Social Responsibility, 10% of their profit will go to a chosen foundation. This year, they have chosen the GSC Tuna Capital to be their beneficiary.

The NightRun will be on July 19, 2014 with its starting line at Veranza Mall and finish line at SunCity Suites. Assembly time will be at 5 PM and gunstart will be at 7PM. 

Here are some of the details of the NightRun.

Proud Sponsors of this event are the following:

* Phoenix Petroleum

* KCC Mall of Gensan & Veranza Mall

* Mitchy's Car & Accessories

* Cebu Pacific

* Dole Philippines 

* Bench Robinsons Place Gensa

* H20 Distilled Water

* Seda Hotel

* Sarangani Highlands

* Waterfron Insular Hotel Davao

* QuikSilver

* Safi Meat Shop

* 4A AgroScience Corp.

* DC

* TORQUE General Santos City Chapter

Registration Centers are at the SunCity Suites Front Desk, Bench Robinsons Place Gensan, Mitchy's Car & Accessories, and KCC Mall of Gensan.

Deadline of registration will be on July 15, 2014 but this is usually extended (as per my experience).

I'm glad to say that after 4 years, I am finally joining the NightRun and not just be behind the scenes. 

Here are some photos of the previous NightRuns: 

All photos are from SunCity Suites NightRun Series FB Page

So what are you waiting for? Register now! 

BEAUTY: Colour Collection Ultimate Wear Lipstick (Headturner)

Last April, my sister got an up-and-coming lipstick sample from SampleRoom. 

Just to give you a backgrounder, SampleRoom is a beauty and lifestyle website that gives out sample of newly launched or soon to be launched products in exchange of reviews. The site operates on a point system where in each product is valued with certain points. Each member is given 100 points upon registering and will be used to "purchase" the products. The products are free but you have to shoulder the shipping fee. Once you've tried out your free sample, you need to leave a review for you to gain more points. Cool, huh? 

Back to my sample! My sister ordered the Colour Collection Ultimate Wear Lipstick by Tupperware. At first, I wasn't really keen on the idea since, Hello, Tupperware! I'm not always open to trying out new make-up brands, especially when it comes to lipsticks. I've always been a Revlon, Maybelline, and Rimmel kind of girl. 

Screenshot from SampleRoom.Ph

However, I was blown-away when I tried the sample. I LOVE IT!

Color

The color was perfect for my skin color. I have always searched for this color. Again, it's perfect and the hue that I have always wanted on my lips. 

Lasting Power

I'll give this lipstick 5 Stars as this surely lasts really, really long. I barely need to re-touch whenever I go out or eat out. The stain is still on my lips even after eating and drinking all night long. Sometimes, when I did re-applied it during the day, the stain will last after I've brushed my teeth or rubbed my lips. Sometimes, the stain is even still there when I wake up in the morning. It's that amazing! Finally, I've found the long lasting lipstick that's right for me.

Moisturizing Effect

My lips easily chapped and get dry. That's why I have to apply lip balm every once in a while. However, I didn't experience any dryness or chapping with this lipstick. It keeps my lips moisturized well. 

Overall Experience 

I've enjoyed using this lipstick and I will surely buy it. Wearing this lipstick gives me the confidence boost and let's me avoid the hassle of checking myself in the mirror every now and then just to see if I look pale.  It is also cost-effective since you don't have to apply it as often as you would do with other lipsticks. 

Other available colors. (Will probably buy all of them ^_^)

After a whole day of Wedding Coordination (That's me in the middle. Check out my lips guys!)

After eating lunch. The fuchsia stain is still there. No need to re-touch.

Whole night of drinking! Still pretty in pink! ^_^

EVENTS: Mashable's #SocialMediaDayGensan 2014

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to join this year's Mashable's #SocialMediaDayGensan celebration which was hosted by the SOXBloggers, the Mindanao's Funnest, held at Shakey's Pizza SMCity Gensan.

Without the presence of the SOXBloggers' Mother Hen, the ever fabulous Avel Manansala of GenSantos.Com, the event was spearheaded by Google's Women on Web Coordinator, Ms. Chiclet Rillo.

Some of you might be wondering what the Social Media Day is all about. Is it an event where all you have to is tweet, post on Facebook and IG simultaneously so that the event will be trending. Hmmm.. well, that's part of it! ^_^ But there's more to it than just that. 

What is the Social Media Day?

The Social Media Day was launched by Mashable in 2010 to recognize the digital revolution that has conquered the world right before our very eyes. Every year, thousands of people meet in different countries just to join this global event. 

The official date of the Social Media Day is every June 30. However, just like this year, the event was moved on a Saturday prior to June 30. Well, I guess it does make sense since a people will surely join the celebration if you have it on a weekend rather than on a weekday.

The Official Tarp of #SMDayGensan

  

My GBG NameTag and A Shameless Selfie =P

Our Host, Ms. Cathy Bolodo

#SMDayGensan Lead Chiclet Rillo officially welcomes the participants and opens the event.

The event has featured four (4) speakers that are considered expert in the Social Media field.  They discussed different topics involving the trend of the Social Media and its unbelievable power to influence people, if done in the right way.

1st Speaker: GBG Trainer Alexis Chua

The first topic was the "Trends in Social Media" discussed by GBG Trainer and AUB Banker Alexis Chua. Here are his major points:

* Having and establishing an online presence matters since 97% of internet users look for local goods and services online.

* No matter how small or big your business is, you need to have some online presence either through an FB page or a website.

* Online presence makes people aware of the existence of your business.

* Businesses with online presence are expected to grow by 40% next year.

* Content is still King. - Bill Gates, 1996

* Catch the attention of your audience through your content.

2nd Speaker: Social Media Marketing Guru Morgan Garcera

The second speaker, SMM Guru Morgan Garcera of Morgan Magazine, talked about "How You Can Profit from Social Media". As an online worker, I've always been craving for more knowledge on how to develop my online skills so I was very interested in this topic that I scribbled more than 3 pages of notes. 

According to Sir Morgan, Social Media Marketing's main goal is to promote brand/product awareness.  The sales will come after you have establish a great online presence through the use of Social Media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. It also helps drive behavior in others to make a purchase, click, or "like" your post.

Sir Morgan also discussed the process and workflow of a Social Media Marketer.  From the Creation of Social Media accounts and Profiling of the brand, to the Evaluation, Customer Satisfaction, and Sales.

His discussion was very fruitful to me because I've learned a lot of tips and tricks on how to utilize SMM that I can use in my clients' SM accounts. Yay! I also approached him at the end of the event and told him that I'm very interested to learn more about SMM and if we could meet up one of these days. I'm so glad that he said YES! Another Yay!

3rd Speaker: Marketing Guru & Businessman Oliver Ralph Layco

Ralph Layco: The Man Behind the Success of the Biggest Beach Festival in the Philippines, the SarBayFest! 

Ralph and I are actually acquaintances and I have attended one of his lectures before. Just by listening to him, you can really tell that this man is BORN/MADE FOR MARKETING. He's a marketing genius! 

He discussed the topic "Branding through Social Media" and shared to everyone 5 tips to Rock your Social Media Game Plan like #SarBayFest. I'll probably share those in my next post as it is pretty lengthy.

Oh! He also gave away some cool prizes from Macho Mucho (his salon for men).

Our Speakers. From left: Alexis Chua, Morgan Garcera, Mark Agana of ReShop.com, Gem Tadefa of SoxBloggers, and Host Cathy Bolodo.

I wasn't able to get a photo of the fourth speaker, Mr. Mark Agana, while he was discussing "Advocacy in Social Media" as I attended to an important phone call. I wasn't even able to listen to most of his talk. So sad. But, what I do know is that through his website, ReShop.com, he was able to create a solution to the on-going recycling problem in Metro Manila. The concept of his site is for people to upload photos of the things that they want to get rid of but are still usable so that other people can have it.  Instead of throwing it away, people will be donating the things instead. Cool concept, huh?! 

My notes at the beginning of the lecture.  My handwriting gets worse as I continue to take notes.

Free food.

#SMDayGensan Class Picture

I'm a raffle winner! Yay!

I was also lucky enough to win a tumbler from  SmartLiveMore. Super lucky talaga! Perfect for my juices.

Thanks to GBG Gensan, SOXBloggers, and SmartLiveMore for making this event possible.