Her World: Sofia Zobel Elizalde

How would you describe yourself?

I am passionate in all I do, easy-going, open-minded, fun-loving.

What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

Watching The Gilded Age! Just finished And Just Like That! Loved it!

Currently reading What Happened to You By Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey.

Favourite shopping haunts in the city?

I love buying flowers and fresh fruit in Market Market. I also love to buy plants and fruit along the Santa Rosa road on my way to our farm in Batangas. I love looking for Filipino antique furniture and frequent my favourite antique shops from time to time.

Favourite restaurants and bars?

Sala Bistro, Sala, Lusso, and Antonio's! Antonio's is always a special experience.

What are you currently working on?

Before the pandemic, I helped build “The Stella Abrera Dance and Music hall" in Centex Buan, Batangas. Because of the pandemic, we could not launch it for two years. I am thrilled to start the program and get the dance program up and running this year!

Where do you go to imbibe some culture or get some inspiration?

New York City! I love the energy and the diversity of what it offers. Every time I travel there, I try to visit a museum, watch a show or walk around different areas and take it all in. All this inspires me.

What can’t you live without?

My seven dogs!

What’s on your bucket list of places you would like to visit?

I have many places still on my bucket list, but I am obsessed with visiting the Grand Canyon! I hope to go someday soon!

Where do you go to relax?

Our farm in Calatagan, and the beach! Once in a while, a good spa!

How would you describe your style?

It’s pretty classic, but I have to feel comfortable in what I wear and have fun with it!

Who are your style icons?

I love all Sarah Jessica Parkers outfits in the latest Sex in the City! Fun and stylish at the same time!

What’s in your fridge?

Many things! 

What’s your hidden talent?

I was doing hairstyles on other people! In boarding school; I was the designated hairstylist!

A recent discovery is …?

Bird feeding, HBO max, and single malt whiskey!

The five indispensable gadgets?

Cell phone and laptop. I’m not such a gadget person.

Do you collect anything?

I love vintage jewellery and Philippine antiques.

What are your favourite websites, podcasts, Youtube, social media personalities?

Shopping websites!

What song/s puts you in a good mood?

Here Comes the Sun by the Beatles.

Whom would you like to have over for dinner? (living or deceased)

Mikhail Baryshnikov and Maya Angelou.

What’s the best piece of advice you ever received that changed your life?

When you do something with sincerity, it will work!

What have you learned from the pandemic? How have you changed in terms of priorities, mindset, etc.?

My life slowed down a lot during the pandemic because of all the lockdowns, but it has given me more time to enjoy my home, family, dogs, and people close to me. It has also given me a chance to reflect more and enjoy the simple things in life, like nature.

Do you regret anything?

Not at all!

What keeps you motivated to do the things that you do?

Passion.

What’s your current state of mind?

Happy and peaceful.

Where are you now in your life, and what more would you like to achieve?

I am in a good place, happy with how the years have gone the lessons I have learned and continue to learn. I feel blessed in many ways, and I look forward to what the future will bring. 

What’s the greatest teaching you have learned so far from life? 

Anything is possible! But it comes with a vision, hard work, commitment, sacrifices, and much learning. As I always say, open mind, open heart. Allow life to teach you the lessons, and try to have fun while living it!