Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, the hostess with the most-est tells us what it takes to prepare a festive Christmas celebration
“I love the whole feel of the holidays! The look, smell, food, weather and, most especially, togetherness,” says Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, restaurateur, chef, caterer and all-around foodie. As someone who not only builds restaurant brands but caters and creates some of the most stunning social media-worthy tablescapes, she flourishes during the Christmas season. Decorating her home, setting the dining table and pre- paring her buffet for family and friends immensely delights her.
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“Bringing joy through delicious food and creating memories around the dining table are what make me enjoy entertaining the most,” Ongpauco-Tiu verifies. In her home, fresh Christmas flowers like ponsettias are a must to bring in the festive feel. From whipping up a feast in the kitchen, to conceptualising unique, thoughtful décor aesthetics, every decision is meaningful and purposeful. “I don’t go for perfection when I decorate. Not everything has to match. It has to be more harmonious, comfortable and warm,” she comments.
Entertaining is a skill that not many can muster, but this chef has it down pat. Her clients and family are pampered, to say the least. Ongpauco- Tiu takes such pleasure in her craft, and her passion is infectious. “When entertaining and tablescaping, adding personal touches about your guests and their likes is a great idea! It’s our way of showing them that we thought about them, and that we are happy to have them over,” she says, underscoring the importance of being detail-oriented, while thinking about a guest’s experience.
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