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Every one of us undergoes some major change at some point in our lives, and, whether if it's good or bad, we become a stronger, better person than we used to be. 

For me, that major change would be becoming a mother. During pregnancy, I underwent physical and emotional changes: My hips expanded and my shoe size and cup size increased, I became picky of what I ate, I took extra care of my body, I was physically and emotionally sensitive... my whole world suddenly changed. And when I finally met my baby in person, I was determined to become a hands-on parent: I breastfed, I co-slept, I became a stay-at-home-mom.

And now, I have two little ones to look after, and Motherhood, for me, is a constant learning process. 

Isn't it nice to have support throughout those stages of Motherhood? I'm not only talking about support from family or friends, but as well as personal essentials, like belly bands, nursing bras, and shape wears.



Fortunately, Urban Essentials provides just those for the modern mom. 


Urban Essentials is a company formed to cater to the needs of all women at any stage in their lives. The company has a goal of providing the essentials of womanhood by giving them products that are of the highest quality and have been tried and tested. To set itself apart from competition, the primary target market of the company is moms and females in the mid-market segment and up, who are sophisticated and in tune with the latest trends in keeping themselves fit, healthy and beautiful. However, these women are also money-sensible, who would want to enjoy the best value for their money when investing in garments or accessories so they feel their purchases are more acceptable when it is more than for cosmetic or vanity purposes only. (Urban Essentials Facebook)

Urban Essentials aims to provide the modern mom's needs for Pregnancy, Post-pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Beyond! They carry the following trusted brands:



1) Nursing bras by Ingrid & Isabel support a woman, during and after
pregnancy. You can choose between a drop cup bra, which has no back clasps, or a crossover bra, which has absolutely no clasps for a more comfortable breastfeeding experience.


Oh, isn't it wonderful to have a bra that you can use during and after pregnancy? I would want that... I had to buy bigger sized bras when I was pregnant, and since I wasn't fully aware of breastfeeding and its benefits, I didn't get nursing bras yet. So I had to buy ones when I already nursing.

The Nursing bras by Ingrid & Isabel look very comfortable and are great for support. Nursing moms now quite well how hard and painful it is when we get engorged, so better get a bra that can support well while providing easy access come nursing or pumping time :)

Go here for more information: http://urbanessentials.com.ph/nursing-bras/



2) Wink Shapewear can help women flatten their tummy, support posture, and give them a sense of returning to their pre-pregnancy body. Made from medical grade compression material, Wink Shapewear has been proven and tested to slim a woman by 2 sizes and is an ideal post C-section support garment. 

It was my mom who gave me a girdle post-pregnancy, because I didn't bother to think of buying one (Thanks ma!). Shape wears help moms post-partum, not only to help get back your post-pregnancy body, but also for support for your back and C-section scar.

I've heard of Wink from friends and even celebrities before, so I know that this is a well-trusted brand. Their shape wear covers the whole abdomen, including the hip area, which expands during pregnancy. And best of all, it is seamless under clothing! Nice!

Go here for more information: http://urbanessentials.com.ph/wink/


3) Bellaband is a handy tool that allows a woman to keep wearing her
pre-pregnancy pants by simply placing a band over the pants. This means you no longer need to shop for different-sized pants at each stage of your pregnancy! You can even wear it post-pregnancy for support and transition.

Now this sounds cool and handy! And yes, I had the maternity belt, like the little garter you use to extend your pants button, and it didn't really work for me. When I was pregnant, I preferred dresses and leggings instead. If I had these before, then I probably could still wear any of my jeans easily :)  

For more information on Bellaband: http://urbanessentials.com.ph/bellaband/



4) Look stunning and feel amazing while pregnant with Blanqi's maternity tanks. It helps you stay active by giving optimum back support, and alleviating pressure through the built-in belly support.



Talk about full support! This is perfect for the active moms or if you want to get that extra support and lift for your big belly. I know it can be hard to walk around with a pregnant belly. This seamless, comfy maternity tank might just be what you need :)

For more information on Blanqi: http://urbanessentials.com.ph/blanqi/

If you're interested in getting your own essentials or giving a friend or loved one some of her own, you can easily get them at the Urban Essentials website:



Or stay connected and updated through the following social media accounts and contact details:
Facebook: Urban Essentials Inc
Instagram: @urbanessentialsinc
Mobile/Viber/Whatsapp09178336967
Email: ask@urbanessentials.com.ph


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Good News! You can win your own Bellaband just by sharing a Christmas photo (old or recent), or you can win it for a relative or friend. For more information about the contest, go HERE, at the AllPromos.ph facebook page. 

Cheers to motherhood,
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Disclosure: Lique’s Antics has been asked to help promote the Urban Essentials website by All Promos Philippines. The feedback and opinions expressed in this post are purely the writer’s own. Read more about this blog’s Disclosure Policy.

Mother's Day is just around the corner! 

Don't have a gift yet? Don't panic...moms are easy to please, trust me.

Here's a list of some unique gift ideas for the woman in your life!

Ok, ok, I might be biased with the items on this list because they are the ones I would like to receive on Mother's Day, hihi... But these are just awesome :)

Let's start with this deliciously, delightful Fruit Bouquet
Source (YouTube: Pins and Things)
You can pre-order from FruiQuet or Fruits in Blooms, or go ahead and try to make a simple one yourself. Moms dig DIY gifts :)

How about a cupcake flower basket?
Photo source
Check out Pink Sweets and her yummy creations.

Give her a well-deserved, relaxing day at the Salon or Spa
Photo source
That 1-2 hours of pampering and alone time is already a vacation for mom.

Or you can give her a cute Spa-in-a-jar instead
Source: www.evermine.com
Source: www.thegunnysack.com
Be sentimental by giving her meaningful, charm jewelry
Photo source
A charm necklace with the kids' names is a piece mom will surely love to wear. See more from Istorya Creations

Give her a break and prepare her a home-cooked meal
Photo Source
Get crafty and make a handmade card
Photo source
I used to love making cards for my parents when I was a kid. Handmade cards are always special because they are made with love. If not, a Store-Bought Greeting Card is okay too :)

Or how about giving a HUG (grandma would love this!)
Source: www.pagingsupermom.com
If all else fails, you can never go wrong with a delicious box of chocolates
Source: www.livelaughrowe.com
Who doesn't love chocolates?

Or this Chocolate bouquet looks good too...
Source: wikiHow

But like I said, moms are easy to please... Just tell her you love her then spoil her with hugs and kisses (moms love those, I know I do!)

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Warning. This post might be too sexy for you. R18!


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Valentine’s Day is just a few days away. 

As a wife and a mom, it’s that day when I get an excuse to go out on a date with my husband and take a break from taking care of the kids.

Let’s make it an excuse to be sexy too! Why not, right?

There I said it.

I want to feel sexy again!

It's not that I want to hit the gym or do yoga and instantly get a smokin’ hot body… what I meant by “sexy” isn’t plainly the physical appearance, but also the mindset of “being sexy”.

I know my husband thinks I’m beautiful and sexy; he tells me so and he’s a nice, sweet guy. So maybe I’m the one who needs convincing?

I’m a work at home mom, and sometimes on the busiest of days, I feel ugly and bloated… I don’t care if I brushed my hair or have a hole in my shirt. I know it’s important to take care of one's self too, but there’s only so much you can do with two kids and keeping a decent household. 

And so back to being sexy again…

Part of being a mom is having outdated undergarments. I look in my drawer and say, “Hey, I think I need new ones? Nah, pwede pa toh!”… even if they’re faded.

I used to love buying underwear. I wanted them comfy and chic. It made me feel confident. I read somewhere that sexy undergarments or wearing high heels boosts a woman’s confidence.

So this Valentines, I think I’ll get me some new lingerie… Not for the husband mind you, but mainly for me!

Dita got the idea spot on!


Source


But where do I start?

Lingerie has different types and styles: babydolls, chemises, bikinis, teddies, corsets...

Wait, what?

Yes, there are various styles. So how do we know which ones best fit our body type?


The description below are from PartyGal’s Girl Guide
Photos are from their New Valentines Collection

1. Babydoll
A short negligee that runs up to your bottom. Loose and free flowing around the tummy area

Why Buy It? Babydolls are probably the most flattering lingerie. Snug around the bust area, they either show off your assets quite nicely, or make you appear fuller. It flows loosely around the stomach area, perfect for those who wish to camouflage a bit of tummy. 



2. Chemise
Longer negligees reaching until mid-thigh. These are like soft mini dresses that drape your body.

Why Buy It? If you're proud of your body shape, chemises are perfect for you. These lingerie are made of soft material that drape your body to flaunt your natural curves. Perfect for women with slim body shapes, or curvy women who want to show off their bust and/or butt.




3. Teddy
Like one-piece bathing suits with a sexy twist! 

Why Buy It? It’s Stylish and HOT. If you want to get something a little different and unique, but not quite ready to show as much skin as with a bikini, then a teddy is for you. 



4. Bikini
You know the type - you've probably worn one to the beach before: brassier-like top and undies (usually a thong)

Why Buy It? THEY'RE BIKINIS ('nuff said?) and they're the ultimate sexy lingerie!



5. Corset
A fashionable body-shaping lingerie that hugs your waist and bust. 

Why Buy It? Corsets hug your figure, giving you a very sexy silhouette.
Aside from the fact that you can wear these lingerie with a pair of jeans and walk out on the street in style, this is great for the gifted ladies who want to show off their shapeliness. 
Don’t these lingerie boost your confidence and make you want to, well, rule the world? I'd love to get my hands on a corset!

Good News! My friends at Party Gal Lingerie are generous enough to offer FREE STANDARD SHIPPING to the readers of this blog!

Simply use this coupon code (VDayLingerie28) when you order: 



No minimum order required. Coupon Code is valid until February 14, 2015 only.

You can order online at their website, or contact them at 09175100745.

Website: http://www.partygallingerie.com.ph/
Facebook Fan Page: PartyGal Lingerie
Email: info@partygallingerie.com.ph

This Valentine’s, let’s go out and be Sexy!
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It's that time of the year again... Christmas songs all-around, blinking lights, and all types of SALE and Holiday Promos! Right? 

All those SALE signs give me mixed-feelings of confusion, anxiety, and excitement all at the same time, I didn't even think that was possible!

In as much as I would highly recommend doing your Christmas shopping as early as possible, sometimes the Holiday Rush is just inevitable. I start my Christmas list as early as August-October, but there will always be times that I seem to forget someone and then immediately panic go out to buy a gift, any gift!

If you haven't finished your Christmas shopping yet, here some practical gift ideas you might find useful as you do your Holiday shopping...

For Kids:


1. Personalized Books
Instead of toys, books are a great gift alternative for kids. Wouldn't it be wonderful if they find themselves as the main character of the story?

I stumbled upon Look It's About Me online.
"LOOK IT’S ABOUT ME books will captivate your child’s imagination, while helping them learn how to read and develop self-esteem in a distinctive way that they will cherish forever. Our books are an extraordinary gift idea for that special little star in your life."
They have a number of stories you can choose from. You can even browse through the book first so you know what you're getting.




The books might be a little pricey, costing at 1,250php each, but keep in mind that it is personalized - it will have your child's name, picture, and a dedication in the preface. Best of all, he or she will be the only one who'll have that book, so it's truly unique :)



2. Crochet Hats 
Christmas time can be a little chilly, so why not get the kids crochet hats from Honeybaby? (shameless plug!) They are soft and snug too, made of cotton yarn and comes in cute designs.



Honeybaby crochet hats are on a Holiday Promo: Get 5 hats for 500php each (up to 1000php in savings).

Do check out the website for available designs and sizes:


3. Deal Coupons
Give the gift of experience! You can buy deal coupons online and have them named after the recipient or give them vouchers.

You can choose from Art Classes or Museum Passes and many others.




4. Christmas Chocolates
Who doesn't love chocolates? 

MyChoco SweetArt and Unit16Sweets Offer Holiday Chocolates in various flavors and cute holiday wrappers. You may even have yours personalized.

Chocolates costs 22php up to 90php depending on size.

Cute Frozen-themed chocolates from MyChoco SweetArt

Holiday Chocolates from Unit16Sweets


For Family:

1. Herbal Aroma Pillows
In this day and age when people get too busy, sometimes you just need some TLC. Kimochi Aroma Pillows are unique and practical gifts for loved ones.
"KIMOCHI AROMA MICROWABLE PILLOW is a natural and safe home remedy for various types of aches and pains…contains a unique mixture of various grains and seeds which sustains and gives off heat relief which lasts longer... Wrapped in special high quality cotton fabric, it also gives off a soothing aroma for added therapeutic effect."
Source







Pillow Sizes and Prices:
Wrap Around Size: 15cmx39cm - P400.00
Square Size: 16cmx19cm - P200.00
Wrist Size: 7cmx19cm - P120.00
Palm Size: 8cmx11cm - P60.00



2. Family Tree
Personalized gifts are the most thoughtful of all. You may have your family tree printed in Photo/glossy paper, Sintra Board, or Canvass.

Family Trees make nice home decors too! Photo from Artique

Design Fee is 500php for any size. Cost of printing depends on size and material. Email mangelicastro@gmail.com for inquiries.



3. Hand-stamped Jewelry
Istorya Creations make customized, hand-stamped jewelry that would make thoughtful gifts for loved-ones. Just check out their tumblr for such beautiful pieces! http://istoryacreations.tumblr.com/

Istorya's Philosophy: "A custom jewelry that expresses your personal inspiration is much more meaningful than another piece of fashion jewelry… Here in Istorya every piece tells a story."
Wouldn't you love one of these pieces too?

Source

For Friends:

1. DIY Kits
DIY gifts are not only creative, but also heartfelt. I'm sure your friends would love something you made yourself. These Mason Jar Kits make wonderful gifts! Classyclutter has lots of neat ideas.


Source

Isn't this spa in a bottle too cute or what?



2. Gift Packs
Lots of stores offer Christmas Gift Packs, which makes it more convenient to buy gifts. Here are some stores that I always check for Christmas offers:

Bench
Bench has gift packs for all ages. They now also have an online shop. You can browse through some of their gift packs HERE.

Or you can visit the Bench Branch near you to see for yourself. Better if you have a Bench Card so you can earn points too!




Source

Human Nature
I love organic products, and I'm happy Human Nature has Christmas Bundles too. They also have Social Enterprise Gifts aside from their products.

You can buy Online or visit the nearest Human Nature Dealer in your area.





Source


Watsons
Watsons not only has Holiday gift packs, they also have freebies and promos for participating products.

You can view Watsons' Christmas Gifts Finds online or visit your nearest Watson's branch.


Source

Just some of their gift packs, there are lots more!


I hope you find this list useful! But keep in mind that whatever gift you give, it's still the thought that counts :)

Do you know of any other practical gift finds? I'd love to hear them!

Happy Holidays,