It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Yup, the ‘Ber months are in full effect and I am a lover. I embrace the season with open arms. I love holidays because it moves the yearly calendar along. We don’t have spring, summer, fall, winter but we do have summer, rainy season and ‘Ber months baby! And with those ‘Ber months come all the holiday bazaars, gift packages etc. I am fortunate as a blogger to use my platform to amplify the voice of local small business owners. I love to support local. I am not encouraging you to go out and buy more BUT I am offering options for when and when you DO need to buy a present that you support a small business. We have such incredible handicrafts and talented individuals in Manila, here are A Few Favorite Things I am loving.

Manila Chocolatier at Kultura|

Kultura curates the best local brands and gifts with affordable prices. This year Kultura features Manila Chocolatier front and center for their holiday gift list and for good reason. The chocolate is sourced and hand crafted locally. The cacao from Davao is deep and silky in flavor and texture. I am a huge fan!

unfortunately I couldn’t find prices online for either gift sets, peek into Kultura on your next visit

Personalized Christmas Stationary By Hue Love Prints|

Not gonna lie, I still get giddy every time I see personalized stationary (or anything) with my name and initials on it. I believe these Pasko stationary sets from Hue Love Prints qualify me as a full fledged Filipino, I’ll check with congress real quick. Brb. :)

prices + photos list on FB

Zenutrients Spa Sets|

Proud Pasig homegrown brand, Zenutrients, continues to create my favorite hand sanitizer and spray deodorant. They use local products and a local team to create wonderful home spa care lines. Gugo is a famous bark found in the Philippines that is actually known to strengthen hair and help with hair loss. Give it a go!

all ingredients, products and prices listed online

Fruits In Bloom|

They look like beautiful donuts don’t they? Well guess what? No guilt, these babies are choco-dipped green apple circles Fruits In Bloom. The tart flavor of the green apple pairs perfectly with the chocolate. My son who is gluten free finally enjoyed a Christmas treat with us.

a box of apple donuts is around 550php

Stylish Tchotchkes By Domicilio Manila|

#OurPiñaHome got the perfect addition from newly launched home decor company, Domicilio Manila. The company was started by Interior Designers from PSID, my one semester wonder school. They have classy taste and elevate the trinket game.

Artisan Bazaar Handkerchief + Map Of Antipolo Market Bag|

Artis Artisan Bazaar is probably my favorite bazaar. It has the ‘small town’ feel and is located in my favorite part of MM, Antipolo. The organizer, Marie, lives a life true to zen, whimsy and intention. It’s no wonder the Artisan Bazaar is such a peaceful and community building experience. I wasn’t able to attend this last year as I was out of town but was fortunate to be gifted the sweet bazaar handkerchief and Map Of Antipolo denim market bag. You can pick one up at Burrow Cafe.