Baby Photographers: These Amazing Pictures Of Little Ones Will Melt Your Heart

As The Avons sang, “We’re Only Young Once”, children will only be tiny munchkins for that precious instant in their lives. Who wouldn’t want to capture their lovely, tiny human at the pinnacle of their childhood charm? Before all your tiny darlings start shooting up like Jack’s magical beanstalk, book one of these outstanding baby photographers to freeze all those precious moments and expressions.

Photography Style: Versatile and Ingenious

1. Bambini Photography

If your baby is crying like a burst dam, it may make perfect sense to call off your photoshoot. Or even better, why not let Bambini Photography turn that moment into a breezy au naturel photo opportunity?

Also, they are such dedicated baby photographers that they’ll even bring their props and backdrops to your home for a photoshoot if that’s what will make baby and you feel more comfortable.

Bambini Photography
P.S. I Love You Photography[/caption]

Whether it’s recreating a nautical scene on a beach, or depicting your baby as a hen, game on.

P.S. I Love You Photography
The Studio Loft[/caption]

Helmed by an all-women team, this boutique photography studio specialises in dreamy, whimsical shots with playful use of costumes and props.

Photography Style: Surreal and Edgy

4. Jen Pan Photography

This baby photographer’s shots will speak to your inner wild child, as her shots are snazzy and mystical all at once.

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Photography Style: Simple and Classic

5. Bamboo Shoots Photography

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Cici from Bamboo Shoots Photography believes in delivering simple, sincere and elegant shots. What better way to do this than capturing her subjects under natural light?

Besides her artful integration of nature into the photography process, she is adept at capturing her subjects’ emotions. No wonder she’s on the 2016 Best list of Singapore Tatler!

Bamboo Shoots Photography
Photography Style: Humorous and Candid

7. The Family Man

Photography Style: Sophisticated and thought-provoking

8. Sealey Brandt Photography

With the blood of photography running through her veins, Tatler’s listed Sealey Brandt has photographed over 1,000 families across the globe. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to experience the magic of what her and her camera can do.

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8 Singaporean Millennials Share With Us Messages They Wish They Could Tell Their Loved Ones

We Singaporeans are not an emotionless bunch (in spite of some polls saying otherwise). Yes, while we may not express our feelings openly, we Singaporeans actually do feel quite deeply.

We wanted to debunk the myth, so we had 8 millennials share with us their messages of love for the people who mean the most to them.

Messages that they wished to say, but could never pluck up the courage to.

1. ‘I am really grateful that she still loves me even though I may not have been the best brother in the world’

I’m closest to my younger sister. Despite the 8 year age gap, we share a lot of common interests like basketball. Even though we don’t talk as much due to our life stages, she still comes to my room to “disturb” me once in awhile.

My favourite memory of my sister was when I was still a trainee in NS. It was my birthday and she sent a photo collage of my baby pictures with the words “Happy Birthday” through text. She was in primary school back then and even though the compilation wasn’t the most aesthetically-pleaseing, it was the effort and the act of thinking about me that made me feel grateful.

I would love to tell her how much I really appreciate her. I am really grateful that she still loves me even though I may not have been the best brother in the world.

– Yeo Khee (23)

2. ‘It was the last time we were together while he was still alive.’

I’m an only child so I’ve always been close to my parents. We have different dynamics between us all, but I love them in their own special way.

When I had my bad breakup, they were there for me like silent pillars of support, and had their own way of showing that they cared.

My mum is the chatty type, so she talked to me and made sure I was ok at all times. My dad doesn’t speak as much, but he gave me the peace that I wanted, and kept everything to a status quo so I’ll get out of the rut faster.

I would like them to know that I love them very much, and that I will miss them terribly if they’re gone.

They taught me what love means, and have provided for me so selflessly through the years.

– Melissa (26)

4. ‘ She’s my best friend and she’s my confidant’

https://youtu.be/X0FtvDxgE5E

Featured in video: Melissa Chia
This video was recorded at Prudential’s #OnePersonOneThing video booth.

5. ‘He is my role model and when I see a man, I hope he is at least 50% of what my brother is’

I’ve grown up in a very close-knit family, but I’m closest to my brother. We don’t get to spend much time together because we’re both busy working but we love catching up in front of the TV. Something I really admire about him is his confidence and his sincerity for those he loves!

He’s my role model and when I see a man, I hope he is at least 50% of what my brother is, because I doubt I can find someone exactly like him!

– Maria (22)

6. ‘Thank you for being there for me when I had nowhere to go’

I’m the closest to my brother, he’s always motivating me to do better.

When I do silly things, like fighting with my parents, he makes me see where I’m wrong. But he also supports me when I’m right.

I really admire his success and hard work. He did a full time job while working on his new business. He’s an entrepreneur and financial assistant now.

Thanks for being a great older brother. I couldn’t have asked for a better one.

Thanks for all your pep talks. I may not say it but they’ve helped me see things clearer.

– Anonymous (23)

8. ‘ Mum thank you for being the best mum ever.’

https://youtu.be/pPD7b09VgHc

Featured in video: Chelsea Ang (@chel.sea.ang)
Thisvideo was recorded at Prudential’s #OnePersonOneThing video booth.

Your Own Messages Of Love

Most of us millennials are crazy busy.

We’re juggling work or school (sometimes both), and we’re trying to discover what we really want, and who we are as individuals.

Sometimes, in the midst of our busy lives, we tend to forget what truly matters – the people who have been there for us from the start.

As part of Prudential’s Relationship Reconnect campaign, Prudential has launched its #OnePersonOneThing booth. Record your video messages to family and friends and send them out to your loved ones and share it on Facebook!

So this season, why not take an hour off your busy schedule and share with us your messages of love?

Happening this week (7 Dec – 9 Dec), record a video message for your loved ones at Prudential’s #OnePersonOneThing video booth at the Ocean Financial Centre from 11am to 7pm!

For more information on Prudential’s #relationshipindex check out their Facebook page.

Also Read: Hello, December: 13 Fun Activities To End Your Year With A Bang [1-15 Dec]

A Taste Of Home: Paradise Classic’s New Menu Will Remind You Of Grandma’s Cooking

Winning our hearts with Chinese cuisine since their opening in 2009, our favourite Paradise Inn has since rebranded themselves as Paradise Classic. The intention is to allow everyone to appreciate the art of fine Nanyang-style cuisine.

Inspired by the widespread use of local ingredients and spices, together with the different cooking styles across Asia, a new menu was born. As expected, the dishes are all well-prepared with the hearts of a team of well-trained chefs, bringing you that familiar taste of home-cooked dishes.

The Menu

The nutritious Double-boiled Chicken Soup ($24.80 per pot) is a mainstay on their menu. Kampong chicken, together with seven Chinese herbs, are slowly simmered for more than 4 hours to produce a nourishing and satisfying pot of soup.

So robust and rich in flavours, this soup is a definite must-try.

Craving for something a little more to the classic side?

Try the Crisp-Fried Fish Tossed in Sweet and Spicy Sauce ($6.80 per portion). The balance of sweet and spicy notes is sure to stimulate your palate.

A new addition to their mains is the Espresso Chicken ($13.80 [Small]). Switching things up a little, Paradise Inn has replaced the usual pork ribs with chicken for this dish.

A full hour is needed to condense and reduce the coffee sauce to a glaze, so you can imagine all the efforts their chefs take to perfect this dish.

The Braised Tofu with Crystal Prawns ($18.80 [Small]) has accompanied Paradise Classic since their early beginnings and of course, this simple but wonderful dish will be staying on the menu.

Just look at those succulent prawns perched on top of the soft and silky tofu. What a wonderful combination!

Another returning favourite is their Stir-fried Pork Ribs with Bitter Gourd ($13.80 [Small]). Pairing the juicy pork ribs and crunchy bitter gourd with black bean sauce brings out the delightful and unique taste of the dish without overpowering it.

Tantalising Desserts

End the exquisite gourmet Nanyang experience with dessert.

A new dish inspired by our local flavours, the Trio Layered Osmanthus Pandan Cake ($4.20 per portion) looks as good as it tastes.

Layers of coconut milk, pandan and osmanthus jelly come together to create that well-balanced harmony.

Take a bite to relish the interplay of flavours of the three layers.

If that’s still not enough, try the chilled Lemongrass Jelly with Lemonade ($3.80 per portion).

This dessert will certainly wow you with its tantalising citrusy note. Perfect for cleansing the palate after a great meal.

Our ambassador, Diana, visited Paradise Classic. Here’s what she had to say:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNeOlKfjtgP/?taken-by=dianabakar_

Yearning to book a table at Paradise Classic already? No one is stopping you, so do it! Enjoy a classic and divine meal that is full of Nanyang’s heritage with your family.

Credit: We Got A Sneak Peak Into The Highly Anticipated Central Perk Singapore – And “OH MY GOD!”

There’s Nothing Like A Real Christmas Tree: Here’s Where To Buy Them & Care Tips!

Christmas isn’t really Christmas without your very own pine scented tree. If you’ve always wanted to have a real Christmas tree in your house, look no further!

Prepare all your presents because this year, they’ll have a new cosy home.

1. Far East Flora

You’re bound to find your dream tree at this extremely popular nursery.

Two types of real Christmas trees are sold at Far East Flora, the Noble Fir and the Norman Fir. We heard from the folks at Far East Flora that Noble Fir is the species that exude that earthly, pine-smelling fragrance. You know which to get now!

Noble Fir’s strong and stiff branches enable it to hold heavier ornaments – a trait not shared by other species.

Trees are available for pre-order as early as November and be sure to do so early because most are snagged by December! They do bring in trees regularly, so call ahead to find out if there has been a new batch!

Christmas tree care tips by the folks of Far East Flora:

Far East Flora (Located within and beside Goodwood Florist)
565 Thomson Rd, Singapore 298184
Phone: 6251 2323
Website here

2. Bedok Garden and Landscape

For people in the East who want a share in the Christmas spirit.

Here’s another nursery that offers the Noble Firs. The blue-green trees are extremely popular and are sold out super fast. Easties, do take note to book early if you don’t want to be disappointed.

Bedok Garden & Landscape Pte Ltd
4A Bedok South Road
Phone: 6244 2216
Hours: 9AM – 7PM
Facebook here

3. Prince’s Landscape and Construction

If you not only want a real Christmas tree, but also a decorated one, try this nursery.

Find it a hassle to set up a Christmas tree, but you still want one? Prince’s has just the package for you.

Prices range from $189 – $450 depending on how tall your tree is. The price includes setting up, dismantling and a loaned tree stand. If you would still like to hang the ornaments on the tree yourself, self-decoration packages are also available.

Prince’s Landscape & Construction Pte Ltd
53 Sungei Tengah Rd, Singapore 698998
Phone: 6763 7000
Hours: 830AM – 530PM (Closed on Sundays)
Website Christmas Tree TLC

You don’t need to have a green thumb to take care of your live Christmas tree if you follow these simple steps.

Now that you’re all set to get and take care of your very own real Christmas tree, all that’s left is to fill it up with loads of presents for your friends and family. Have a very Merry Christmas from all of us!

Header Image Source: fareastflora

Also, read Under $25: 9 Super Local Christmas Gifts That Will Surely Amaze Your Friends!

What If We Told You, You’ve Been Choosing Your Christmas Gifts Wrong All Along?

Let’s be honest, while we Singaporeans love Christmas (the lights, the food, the endless parties and get-togethers!), picking out the perfect gifts for family and friends can be pretty tough.

We can readily admit that pinning down that unique, extra special and thoughtful gift for a loved one is no easy feat.

Chances are, after hours of searching and walking up and down Orchard Road, you would have settled for the typical gift sets, hampers and bags of sweet treats to give out to family, friends and colleagues (don’t even try to deny it)!

Using only products that are non-toxic, eco-friendly, fair-trade and/or cruelty-free, the Nail Social is also a socially-conscious salon that trains and employ underprivileged women, who often face a higher barrier to employment. The Nail Social in partnership with The Pink Room International Nail Academy co- sponsor Professional Manicurist Courses, which beneficiaries undergo enabling them to pick up skills of the trade.

Nail Social is probably one of the most comfortable nail spas around, with personal iPads loaded with movies and complimentary glasses of wine on weekends, guests are definitely in for a treat. The best news? Nail Spa can also play host to your bridal showers and intimate get-togethers!

The Nail Social
42A Haji Lane (2nd Floor), S189235
Opening Hours: Weekdays 11am – 9pm; Weekends 10am – 8pm
Contact: Phone +65 6717 3221 ; Whatsapp +65 8145 5226

[caption id="attachment_19272" align="alignnone" width="1024"] AsiaForGood[/caption]

Founded by a group of local Singaporeans who were keen to overthrow the idea that Singapore is boring, Geylang Adventures strives to explore the different dimensions of Geylang while creating a more harmonious and welcoming society for all.

During the Geylang Adventures Trail, guests will get to explore the winding lorongs and back alleys and experience firsthand the eco-system that forms the backbone of Geylang. Intertwining stories of childhood adventures and interactions with the people who spend their days and nights in Geylang, the Geylang Adventures Trail hopes to break down barriers and open our eyes to a different side of this historic neighbourhood.

3. Enjoy A Tranquil Moment @ Hush TeaBar

Not just a place to learn to appreciate coffee blends (not to mention unleash your inner hipster), Bettr Barista also trains women and at-risk youth to be baristas. A firm believer in holistic well-being, they also offer emotional development and physical skills training.

For more information on Bettr Barista Coffee Academy:

Bettr Barista Coffee Academy
37 Mactaggart Road, #07-03, S368083
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.30am – 5pm; Saturday 10.30am – 2pm; Sunday Closed
Contact: +65 6509 0113

5. Learn How To Whip Local Delicacies @ Food Playground

Learning to cook is a skill most of us sorely lack (no, instant noodles don’t count!), but fortunately, there are cooking schools here in Singapore where we can pick up some culinary skills!

Food Playground offers three-hour long cooking classes where participants can have a go at whipping up local favorites such as Nasi Lemak, Chicken Rice and Laksa!

For more information of Food Playground: https://www.foodplayground.com.sg/

Food Playground
24A Sago St, S059020
Contact: 945223669

6. Dine In The Dark @ Dialogue In The Dark

Looking for a unique experience like no other? Dialogue In The Dark may just have what you’re looking for!

Located at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Dialogue In The Dark enables local Singaporeans to “learn to see in the darkness”. Guests will go through a guided one-hour long tour, where they will walk around a typical housing estate, and later sail down the Singapore River – experiencing everyday environments that are vastly different without the gift of sight.

If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate, Dialogue In The Dark also features Lunch in the Dark.

Guests will have a chance to experience a full course meal in complete darkness. Relying on other senses such as sound and touch, guests are encouraged to communicate, and help each other ease their fears and apprehension throughout the experience – perfect for that friend who’s keen on trying out something truly unique!

Most of us have tried our hand at picking up a new language. Let’s be honest – most, if not all of us, know a handful words from another language (the perks of being born in Singapore!), but picking up a new language using just your hands is a whole new experience.

At Extraordinary Horizons, participants would be able to pick up basic Sign Language. If you’re keen on delving deeper into how the deaf communities live their daily lives, Extraordinary Horizons offers customizable workshops where you can experience music, dance and song appreciation for the deaf!

Extraordinary Horizons strives to promote deaf awareness through their sign language courses, workshops and outreach programs. EO Horizons also features performances by those dabbling in the deaf performing arts scene in Singapore, and helps the disadvantaged gain self-confidence as well as attain life skills and knowledge!

Extraordinary Horizons
Entrepreneurs with Disabilities
3 Coleman St, #04-04, S179804

Scape Co Ltd
2 Orchard Link, #04-01, S23797

Contact: [email protected]

Let’s be honest, most of us can’t use that many bath and beauty products at any one time. So this year, instead of popping by a store for those yearly gift boxes head down to any of these 7 local social enterprises and have a unique Christmas experience!

Feeling inspired? Check out this list of fun events that give back this festive season.

If you’re looking to make your Christmas one that really counts, check out Asia For Good’s socially conscious gift guides and hacks for a merrier Christmas!

(feature image: Reignite The Magic Of Christmas On Orchard Road With ION’s Tiffany & Co. Xmas Tree!

G’day Mate! 7 Australian Cafes In Singapore That Feel Just Like The Real Deal

G’day mate! Our experiences tell us that some of the best coffee and food in the world comes from down-under – Australian cafes.

As coffee lovers, we can’t help but fall in love with that fragrant, freshly roasted cuppa joe. Pair it with some delicious and wholesome food (especially breakfast!) and ta-da, your day is made.

Though we are in fast-paced Singapore, it is true that you can find some really authentic, slow and relaxed Australian cafes here!

1) Luxe Sydney Singapore

Fall in love with the unpretentious Australian cafe over at Luxe.

Founded in Sydney, Luxe is an artisan bakery that focuses on making their own premium breads and pastries.

Their awesomeness has since expanded into Singapore, creating that approachable environment that offers amazing food, all day.

Sourdoughs are simple, un-fancy, but it is certainly ultimate comfort food.

The sourdoughs over at Luxe are freshly baked, toasted and served with butter & their house-made berry jam. So delightful.

Another must-try – the ricotta pancakes. There aren’t many places in Singapore serving them, and the one at Luxe is a real gem.

If you are really missing Australia, Luxe has got you this time round because those pancakes are the bomb.

Luxe Sydney Singapore
Address: 1 Keong Saik Road #01-04 Singapore 089109 (The Working Capitol building)
Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 10pm, Sunday – Monday 9am to 4pm
Credit: Fever Avenue[/caption]

The specially designed space and concept of Robert Timms is curated to create the rustic and casual dining ambience that we all love.

[caption id="attachment_18427" align="alignnone" width="1333"] Credit: Darren Bloggie[/caption]

The classic Australian cuisine is always famed for using the freshest ingredients.

The outlet at Wheelock Place serves up your favourites ranging from the classic eggs & toast, Aussie baby ribs, and desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth! May we have some lamingtons please!

The House of Robert Timms
Address: Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Road, #01-02/03, Singapore 238880
Tel: 6735 9201
Open:Sunday to Thursday & PH – 8am to 11pm, Friday to Saturday & PH Eve – 8am to 1am*

Address: Marina Bay Link Mall, 8A Marina Boulevard, #B2-11, Marina Bay Link Mall, Singapore 018984
Tel: 6509 8117
Open: Monday to Friday – 7.30am to 7.30pm, Closed on Weekends & PHs
Credit: Next in Sight[/caption]

Located in Robertson Quay, their outdoor seating area overlooks our Singapore River.

Their indoor seating is large and welcoming with high ceilings – the cafe is almost always ready to impress you.

[caption id="attachment_18429" align="alignnone" width="960"] Credit: Burpple[/caption]

Behind every cup of awesome coffee is a great barista and Toby’s Estate totally gets that.

Every single cup and brew is specially crafted by their highly trained baristas, ensuring you get a perfect caffeine fix every single time you visit.

Toby’s Estate
Address: 8 Rodyk Street, 01-03/04 Singapore 238216
Tel: +65 6636 7629
Open: Sunday – Thursday  7.30am-6pm, Friday – Saturday  7.30am-8pm

Upholding their really simple philosophy of sourcing the best coffee and using the freshest ingredients in their food preparation, Jamaica Blue has expanded in 7 countries out of Australia.

[caption id="attachment_18435" align="alignnone" width="750"] Credit: Yelp[/caption]

With their casual and minimal interiors, Jamaica Blue is an ideal place to savour your cup of mid-day coffee.

From the classic Aussie banana breads to scones and a wide selection of bread and pastries, the cafe has them all.

A really wise choice would be to pair a little snack with a cuppa latte. Relax, chill and enjoy.

Jamaica Blue
Address: Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Boulevard #01-606/607, Suntec City Mall. 038983
Open: Mon – Fri: 07:30 – 22:00, Sat: 09:00 – 21:00, Sun: 09:00 – 17:00

Address: Citylink Mall, #B1-10, Citylink Mall, 1 Raffles Link, 039393
Open: Mon – Fri: 07:30 – 22:00, Sat – Sun: 10:00 – 22:00

Address: One Raffles Place, #01-62, One Raffles Place Tower 2, 1 Raffles Place, 048616
Open: Mon – Fri: 07:30 – 18:30, Closed: Sat, Sun & PH
Credit: The Business Times[/caption]

Their only outlet in Singapore is located at Dempsey Hill.

The modern, brightly-lit and large space perks you up instantly and is certainly a great choice for your weekend breakfast.

[caption id="attachment_18433" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Credit: Spice Rover[/caption]

The highly comprehensive menu consists of a plethora of dishes, ranging from a simple fare of fresh fruits & vanilla yogurt to creating your very own cheese platter.

Choose from a pretty insane list of cheeses – Brie de Meaux from France to Gruyere Reserve from Switzerland. The world’s best cheeses right at your fingertips. Wow!

Jones the GrocerHill
Address: Block 9 #01-12 Dempsey Road, Dempsey Hill, Singapore, 247697
Tel: +65 6476 1518
Open: Monday – Sunday 8:00am – 11:00pm
Credit: SG Food on Foot[/caption]

Besides serving up the usual Australian gourmet fares and artisanal coffees, Rokeby is staying true to their Australian roots.

They have some mean varieties of Australian wines and beers!

[caption id="attachment_18440" align="alignnone" width="960"] Credit: Burpple[/caption]

You won’t be able to resist some good ol’ waffles served with a knob of butter. Oh, and not to forget, that drizzle of maple syrup!

Isn’t that what Australian food is? Simple, hearty, delicious and close to your heart.

Rokeby
Address: 15-9 Jalan Riang Singapore 358987
Open: Mon: Closed, Tue to Fri:  11am-10pm, Sat/Sun: 9am-10pm
Credit: First Stop Singapore[/caption]

They have your usual Eggs Benedict and Chicken Parma, but they are always having special dishes on their menu, thanks to their experimental chefs!

Credit: Burpple

Housed in a glasshouse with floor-to-ceiling windows (Goodman Arts Centre), the interior feels warm, inviting and really laid-back.

A perfect spot for a weekend breakfast/brunch with your family. The communal tables at the outdoor seating area are also great for a gathering with your group of friends.

Cafe Melba
Address: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Goodman Arts Centre, Blk N #01-56, Singapore, 439053
Open: Monday-Friday: 10am – 10pm, Weekends and Public Holidays: 8:30am-10pm

Address: Mediapolis, 1 Stars Avenue, #03-01, Singapore, 138507
Open: Daily, 8am-10pm
6 Romantic & Secluded High-Tea Spots That Your Date Will Surely Approve Of!