On Sarah: Alina Smocked Tie Shoulder Maxi Dress (Oat)

I’m Sarah and I’m a chef, content creator, food writer and filmmaker. Every day is completely different for me, which I love! I’m not a huge fan of routine, so I really enjoy that my work creates a little adventure for me everyday. I usually spend two days a week filming and editing content, and that usually takes an extra day of prep, like planning the recipes and gathering the ingredients.

Whenever I’m not rushing in the morning, I try to start my day with a bit of meditation and journaling. This practice has really helped me a lot in the past year, and I’m so passionate about it – I’m always talking my friends’ ears off about it. The remainder of my work week could look like researching hawker heritage and culture, having meetings with clients, or other projects. My weekends are sacred, and I always try to spend time with friends, preferably outdoors, eating good food and drinking good wine.

My cats! I’m a proud crazy cat lady, and I love having them around. Looking at their little faces and paws makes me so happy, and seeing how content they are with the simple things is always a good reminder to be grateful for what I have.

My parents inspire me. Being their child is the thing I’m most grateful for in this life. My father is so knowledgeable but he never shies away from learning more. His love of learning and sharing has inspired me in my work from the beginning.

My mother is one of the most fearless people I’ve ever known. She always faces challenges head on, even if they’re difficult. Because she’s guided by what she knows to be right. That, and her curiosity about the world, really inspire me.

This might sound cheesy, but I’m grateful for every experience in my life. A long time ago, I made a decision to never regret anything, because there’s a lesson in everything.

One experience I’m really grateful for is my parents letting me drop out of junior college to take my A Levels as a private candidate in the UK. It was such an “out there” choice, but I proposed it to them after I had done my research and they supported me fully. That experience of living overseas and away from my family, having to manage my own studies, really taught me a lot about independence. But most of all, having my parents’ support showed me that I could do whatever it is that I chose, as long as I was sure about it.

On Sarah: Layne Multi-way Linen Top (White), Alda Elastic Button Down Midi Skirt (Orchid) 

On Sarah: Alina Smocked Tie Shoulder Maxi Dress (Oat)

I don’t know if this counts as a gemstone but I identify with rose quartz. It signifies boundless love, and that’s something I really resonate with. I try to bring an energy of love to everything I do and everyone I meet, and I let that energy guide my decisions and choices.

This isn’t a specific place, but the beach picnic is my favourite hidden gem this year! I love to be by the sea and Singapore has so many beaches. It’s not a groundbreaking idea to have a picnic on the sand, but what I’ve discovered this year is that it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Just myself, a good book, a big water bottle, a simple packed lunch and a mat, and I’m happy.

This makes me sound like a workaholic, but I’m really looking forward to buckling down and working on my cookbook, as well as releasing my first long-form series.

This is the number one thing I’ve learnt this year, and it’s changed everything for me: you create your own happiness. I used to think that meant shaping your life into something that will make you happy, whether it’s attaining career goals, relationship milestones or life achievements. But what I’ve learnt this year is that our happiness comes from how we decide to be, and not from our circumstances. And when I chose to be happy, it didn’t matter where I lived, or what work I was currently doing. Because no matter what, I choose to look for the good and the positive in my life. And that makes me happy.

On Sarah: Layne Multi-way Linen Top (White), Alda Elastic Button Down Midi Skirt (Orchid) 

On Jenn: Rochelle Gingham Ruched Skirt, Rochelle Padded Gingham Knot Front Top (Blush)

Hi! I’m Jenn Low, the founder and Managing Director of Wanderlust + Co. A typical week for me starts with coffee (!), organising my calendar, and prioritising the things that need to be done at work, at home, and even planning my downtime, be it with my husband, children or friends.

I love batching tasks together, e.g. I have my marketing and scheduled meetings on Mondays, finance and merchandising/production on Tuesdays, operations and business development on Wednesdays, and I keep Thursdays and Fridays open for external meetings. Staying organised has been absolutely key for me when it comes to juggling being a working mum, as well as maintaining a healthy work life balance.

Seeing people I love happy, as well as being surrounded by friends who don’t take things too seriously, and love having a good laugh.

Arianna Huffington, Reese Witherspoon, Oprah Winfrey - all women who have overcome adversity and not only thrive in their careers, but are also incredible as people. They are constantly invested in healing, learning and growing not just themselves, but those around them.

My son Oscar, had brain surgery last year - it was completely unexpected and was such an intense experience. It made me so much more grateful for life itself, and I learned to be present, and constantly give my best to situations and the people around me - be it work, family, or even downtime. If we decide to have downtime, be really present in that, as self-care is also an act of love for ourselves.

Sapphire as September is my birth month.

On Jenn: Tatianna Tie Back Midi Dress (Black)

To further trust my instincts and also the value of keeping faith - whether it's in people or situations. It’s always better to be hopeful, than to be bitter or jaded.

I love the end of the year as it’s a time that we celebrate family, people in our communities and reflect and rest as we gear up for a new year.

Be the best version of yourself, and learn early to embrace everything about yourself. We are human; we are not supposed to be perfect, the imperfections make us real! Also, just like the sun sets and rises, every feeling or moment is always temporary. I learned through meditation to let go of anything that didn’t go so well for the day. It’s hard work to carry around heavy feelings, and we all deserve light in our hearts.

On Tanya: Vivi Panelled Maxi Dress (Baby Pink)

I’m Tanya Maria Aguila, the first time #momboss and co-founder of ONELIFE, a chain of boutique Pilates and Physical Therapy studios in Manila - the first of its kind. I am a multi-certified Pilates, Yoga, and movement professional.

I am a big champion of local businesses and independent brands and I strongly believe in two advocacies: self care, and women empowerment. As a coach, I believe in sustainable fitness and compassionate coaching. I try my best to champion holistic and highly personalised self-care, which is why my brand, ONELIFE focuses on both Physical Therapy and Pilates, for injury management and rehabilitation, and one-on-one trainings, for at-your-own-pace fitness. I believe fitness is not measured in inches or pounds, but in the ability to continue to do the things you love, free from pain, for life.

I also just gave birth to my first child last September so I am new to motherhood! Everyday I’m discovering something new with my little one and it’s been a different kind of adventure for us everyday.

Right now, because of the pandemic (and my newborn), I am working mostly from home. Nowadays, I find joy in sprucing up our home and dressing up in comfortable and colorful outfits while working on different projects when I have free time and taking a break from taking care of my baby daughter. I also love reading books and watching vlogs on parenting whenever I can with a latte in hand, and soothing jazz music in the background.

My little daughter, Laura. She’s the cutest thing I have ever seen (mom may be biased haha!).

My husband and my daughter. It’s true what they say - family is everything! They are my reasons for striving to outdo my best, everyday. They are also what drives me to keep taking care of myself - so I can take care of them in return the best way I can.

When I first tried to branch out my business, I failed miserably. But looking back, that experience pushed me to grow beyond my comfort zone, to learn new things, and to find a clearer purpose and vision.

What they say is absolutely true - that failure is a great teacher, and if you are open to it, every mistake has a lesson to offer. The important thing to remember is to stay humble and resilient. And to keep believing in your dream despite knowing that it can take a different form or timeline. 

On Tanya: Shoshana Gingham Strappy Top (White), Shoshana Gingham Maxi Skirt (White) 

On Tanya: Vivi Panelled Maxi Dress (Baby Pink)

I’ve always been drawn to Aquamarine and discovered that it’s believed to provide courage, mental clarity and good health. It’s a great gemstone for every #momboss like me!

Love, Bonito! I love treating myself to an outfit or two every so often! Now that I have a daughter, I’ve found a renewed passion for dresses (most especially in the colour pink!) and enjoy dolling myself up. I’m really looking forward to when I can twin with my baby girl. 

I’m excited to spend my first Christmas with my baby girl (and hubby!). While things may not be like before the new normal (the pandemic in Manila is still very real), I still look forward to creating our little family’s holiday tradition this year - the first Christmas tree, stockings, matchy outfits, gifts - the works! Also very excited about the upcoming new year.

Always know what you stand for. Remember that your values serve as your compass through life. Always move forward with your values as your guide, and you will never be lost when you go for your dreams.

On Tanya: Shoshana Gingham Strappy Top (White), Shoshana Gingham Maxi Skirt (White) 

On Melody: Britta Halter Neck Tiered Maxi Dress (Alluring Bloom)

Hi! My name is Melody Cheng and I'm the co-host and co-founder of the podcast, AsianBossGirl. I'm a huge Korean drama and instant noodle enthusiast! My typical week consists of a lot of meetings with my team members (I manage the social media department of my company and I meet twice a week with my co-founders to go over other arms of the business), and recording and reviewing the podcast episodes. I end my night whipping up some comfort Asian food, chatting in my Kdrama Club (yes, I have a club called Seoulmates haha), and ending my night with a Korean drama!

I love watching Korean dramas to end my day and I was watching a very cute scene in Vincenzo that made me smile (* they finally hugged!)

The idea of passing down my family's legacy & story.

I'm grateful for the experience of visiting the places my mom and family grew up in (Hawaii & Taipei). It gave me a deeper understanding of my Asian American identity, my family history, and a greater appreciation of my upbringing and life here in California. 

On Melody: Britta Halter Neck Tiered Maxi Dress (Alluring Bloom)

I would identity with Jade the most. I wear my grandma's jade bracelet with me at all times (I've worn it for the past 10 years ever since she passed) and it serves as my "protection" stone.

Maybe it's because I re-watched Sailor Moon lol, but I learned about the moonstone recently. I love the meaning it has of "new beginnings". Ever since turning 30, I feel like I'm about to embark on a new chapter of my personal life and I'm ready for this "new beginning" to start.

I'm looking forward to the moment, at the end of the year, when I can look back and see the amount of personal growth this past year. I'm definitely going through a personal transitional and transformative period right now and I want to see what unexpected, positive changes can happen.

My piece of advice would be something I'm trying to remember for myself: "Remember you were born with "enough".

On Anna: Adrianna Cowl Neck Midi Dress (Lavender)

Hi I'm Anna Wong, an entrepreneur. A typical week includes an exercise in the morning, business planning and reviews, meeting with regional heads and internal team, business networking and me-time.

Haha… recently I picked up hobbies like oil painting - I always wanted to be an artist (a painter) when I was a kid. In recent years, my first priority is always business and haven’t done any painting for ages. Last month, I decided to make more time for my hobbies and picked up oil painting. Words can’t describe my feelings - art, painting, colours make me so happy because I am able to express my creativity and emotions, and converse with my inner self. I spent the whole day just painting - it’s therapy and I would say it was the happiest day in (recent) years.

I always try to surround myself with people that are better than me in one way or another - so many of them inspired me. I want to keep a humble mindset and grow, so I promised myself that I will do my best to learn something from people I met in the day. You will discover more good people and good things, when you stay curious!

I have been very lucky to have two good mentors who are also the investors in my business - Diana Chou and Moses Tsang. They saw my potential, and gave me strength and confidence. I’m very grateful for the knowledge and experience they've shared with me. Now I’m paying it forward by helping more women and young people.

Here are three things I’ve learned: They’re positive with perseverance - they still go to work even though they can retire and enjoy life. They’re givers - people truly respect them because they help others and empower young people with a good heart. They are excellent communicators! Everyone pays attention when they talk!

So far I only wear diamonds because diamond itself is simple; it looks professional, shines and helps keep my mind calm and focused. Shine bright like a diamond.

 I found out that I’m extremely persistent. I don’t give up on things easily. I have been running FEW for 6 years now. I still have a huge passion and belief in it, no matter what happened or how bad it seems today. I can cope with stress and anxiety - the hard times make me stronger and I always believe tomorrow will be better as long as you want it to be.

TRAVEL. HAHA - I’m planning to travel anyway later this year, I need a break and more inspiration!

Surround yourself with positive people who can make you grow and give you strength. Avoid toxic and negative people.

On Anna: Adrianna Cowl Neck Midi Dress (Lavender)

On Talita: Alla Knitted Cropped Top (Black), Roxanne Tailored Peg Leg Pants (Black) 

Hi, #LBCommunity! My name is Talita Setyadi; I am the Founder and CEO of Beau Bakery, based in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The pandemic has allowed me to have a much more balanced work and home life; though the government has relaxed WFO measures, I’m still working from my home office about 3 out of the five days of the week. My typical week is split between team meetings, product trials, location scouting, networking, Muay Thai sessions and socialising with friends.

Due to my tight schedule, I never had time to cook at home pre-pandemic. But these days, I cook every day, and I grind and brew my coffee by hand every morning. I love not having fixed schedules day to day to allow for spontaneity and out-of-the-blue excursions and meetings with people. I also enjoy being part of communities or organisations as connecting with people boosts my mood and gives my life colour.

Dressing in a skeleton onesie a la Phoebe Rogers for a Halloween party at Beau Pizza & Bagels, and unexpectedly twinning with a guest! We connected instantly over a shared love for her melancholic lyrics.

My dreams and goals inspire me! I’m big on the Law of Attraction, and nothing beats that wave of tingly energy and goosebumps when I visualise them manifesting in my life.

I’m grateful that I had early failures and a painful heartbreak early on in my career that humbled me and took away the ‘chip on my shoulder’ I had when I was younger. Through that experience, I also learnt how to feel whole and complete on my own without needing ‘success’ or a man to define me!

I love Herkimer diamonds, found in Herkimer, New York. Their super high vibrational quality focuses and amplifies intentions. It’s the gemstone that reminds me that anything’s possible. I also identify with it because it cuts through the noise and guides me in the right direction in tough and messy situations. I find this quality so essential in this world full of distractions.

On Talita: Alla Knitted Cropped Top (Black), Roxanne Tailored Peg Leg Pants (Black) 

On Talita: Alla Knitted Cropped Top (Black), Roxanne Tailored Peg Leg Pants (Black) 

Before the pandemic, I used to wear full makeup every day and would break out often. After working from home and taking care of myself better, my skin has become healthier without the need for expensive facials. These days when I go out, I do my eyebrows and put on a coat of lipstick. I only wear foundation for special occasions.

I look forward to going to Los Angeles to watch BTS live in concert with my ARMY friends! After that, my husband and I will be taking a road trip to Yosemite, Big Sur and Mount Shasta. I can’t wait to go hiking and take in all the majestic nature views!

Rather than trying to fit into the norm, focus on being an outlier! I feel that’s when we are the most authentic and creative, and it allows us to forge our paths in life instead of looking upon others to model ours.