Obsessions take center stage in this year’s annual Lifestyle Asia Gala iteration, spotlighting personal collections fueled by love, commitment, and the quest for rarity and beauty.
A few days before Christmas, Lifestyle Asia celebrated its 37th year with the 2024 Lifestyle Asia Garden Gala. The proudly homegrown magazine highlights its legacy of telling meaningful stories—enabling conversations that center around purpose and motivation.
READ ALSO: An Enchanting Afternoon: Lexus Transports Guests To A Verdant Garden Escape
During the magazine’s last event of 2024, Lifestyle Asia launched Obsessions, the publication’s newest coffee table book. It is a curation of beloved personal collections presented with unique stories that offer insights into the world of high-end collecting.
Setting The Mood
Before diving into the program, it is worth noting that the Lifestyle Asia Garden Gala wouldn’t have been possible without Dave Sandoval, who set the mood with his impeccable event styling.
The Peninsula Manila’s Upper Lobby and Conservatory were transformed into an enchanting garden, with lush greenery enveloping the space. The Upper Lobby became the social hotspot of the afternoon, buzzing with conversations and laughter as guests enjoyed cocktails before the program started.
The Upper Lobby of The Peninsula Manila styled by Dave Sandoval
Moreover, the Conservatory was nothing short of glamorous as verdant trees and vibrant red blooms surrounded the stage, setting a picturesque backdrop for speeches, photos, and more importantly, the launch of the newest coffee table book.
The interiors of the Conservatory elegantly complement the Garden Gala theme
Fitting Farewell
Aside from the launch of the new book, the Garden Gala also served as editor-in-chief Candy Dizon’s swan song. After her heartfelt speech, guests witnessed the highly anticipated finale of the event, the unveiling of Obsessions.
“A coffee table book like no other, this book is more than a collection of beautiful images. It’s a reflection of the passions, pursuits, and personal fascinations that drive us forward. It highlights the power of creativity and the depth of human curiosity, two forces that continue to inspire our work at Lifestyle Asia,” Candy said.
Aside from introducing the book, Candy also took her time to look back at her amazing tenure as the magazine’s editor-in-chief. “A bittersweet farewell,” as she described it.
“Each one of you has left a lasting mark on me, both professionally and personally,” she said. Candy first thanked AGC PHC CEO, Archie Carrasco for his guidance and support. Furthermore, she also expressed her appreciation for Lifestyle Asia’s managing editor, Mawi Fojas-De Ocampo as her wingwoman. Lastly, she acknowledged her editorial team—past and present, for being part of her journey as the magazine’s head of editorial.
Flowering Personalities
Personalities featured in the book like Jun Jun Ablaza and Katrina Ponce Enrile were in attendance. Previous Lifestyle Asia cover stars like Kaye and Kerry Tinga, Julio Ortega, and Ling-ling King were also seen enjoying the event. Furthermore, Manila’s finest like Pinky Tobiano, Mia Borromeo, and more were present to celebrate the magazine’s milestone.
Jun Jun Ablaza, Lifestyle Asia’s EIC Candy Dizon, Czarina Ablaza; Katrina Ponce Enrile
Ana De Ocampo, Kaye Tinga, Mia Borromeo, and Ling-ling King
Rachel Carrasco and Victor Consunji; Tina Cuevas, Kaye Tinga, Ana De Ocampo, Nadine Lustre; Kathy Huang and Ivar Aseron
Gerry Sy, Jinky Tobiano, Candy Dizon, Suzette Ayson, Randolf Palanca, Melanie Tan, Mannix Peña, Jared Cordero; Michael Needham, Randolf Palanca, Jacqueline Dizon, Alexis Offe; Roxanne and Erickson Farillas, Candy Dizon, Yvette Fernandez
Immersive Experience
Thanks to co-presenter, Lexus, and partners, Martell Cognac, Royale Salute, Codigo Tequila, Ploom, and Simply Flora—guests were treated to a wonderful experience.
Simply Flora provided a flower bar where guests can pick and choose their complimentary flowers. From sunflowers to carnations, Simply Flora gave guests a memorable take-home gift, as they had the chance to choose and curate their flowers.
Ploom also had a wonderful booth that showcased their products. They matched the theme of the Garden Gala as they decorated their booth with flowers and a grass spread. Furthermore, guests were able to check out and explore the devices and flavors they offer.
While guests were listening to speeches and viewing the book, they enjoyed complimentary drinks from Martell.
The Flower Bar by Simply, Flora where guests can choose and take home flowers; The Ploom booth is beautifully decorated to match the Garden Gala theme; Martell is always ready to serve guests with amazing drinks
The Garden Gala ushered in a new page to be written while closing a beautiful and memorable chapter.
Photos by Ed Simon and Excel Panlaque of KLIQ, Inc.
