Kelly Misa-Fernandez, Mikaela Lagdameo, Janeena Chan and Morgan Say share their favourite holiday moments

Quality time is vital for this duo, despite how busy the holidays can get for them. At the moment, Mika happens to run a newly launched business called Beauty Re/Store while Kelly has her fair share of hosting gigs and the like. “Just making time to spend a meal or two together, talking about life and all things meaningful, [and] checking up on each other is so important,” Mika underscores, adding that the bustle of holiday preparations becomes enjoyable in the process. She beams, “I love how meaningful this season is and how it brings everyone together.”

Kelly similarly calls it her “favourite time of the year”. She and Mika also seem to agree that having long, leisurely dinners is their go-to activity, with time-tested establishments like Solaire serving as the perfect backdrop. “Usually we start early to make the most of the evening. And then we end up having drinks after with plenty of catching up the entire night,” Kelly expresses about such gatherings. 

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Nestled at the heart of Manila’s “Entertainment City”, Solaire boasts an array of festive activities ideal for the best of friends. From shopping amongst their many luxury outlets for a fun afternoon with the girls, to trying festive signature tipples over a tasty spread at Waterside, you are truly spoilt for choices. 

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A unique dining experience also awaits at Oasis Garden Café, where chef Mike Bauda has prepared a delectable afternoon tea inspired by the scents of Jo Malone London. These are only some of what Solaire has so carefully crafted for the season, making it the ideal place to create unforgettable memories with loved ones.

This year’s festivities are notably exciting for Janeena and Morgan, who very recently tied the knot. “Since now will be the first time to celebrate Christmas as a newlywed couple, it feels surreal and joyous,” muses Morgan, an engineer and the CEO of Capitalwise Corp. His wife echoes the sentiment: “It feels extra warm and bright, especially since it’s been a long time coming. We’re still in the adjustment phase, and we’re making sure to enjoy each phase of our newly married life together.”

Janeena gleefully shares that they have already begun new Christmas traditions as a couple, such as attending Simbang Gabi together. “It’s our way of thanking God for his graciousness and unfailing love,” the host, artist, motivational speaker, and podcaster enthuses. “It was actually around Christmas time when we fell in love 11 years ago. It was also around Christmas time when he gifted me my cat, Ribbon Darling. She was so tiny and had a giant Christmas bow wrapped gently around her neck—one of the reasons why I named her Ribbon, aside from her love of playing with bows and strings!”

It’s moments like these that have made the season special for them, and they’re definitely among the reasons why they chose “Christmas” as the theme for their wedding last December 2. Janeena says she is personally looking forward to “just being able to spend time together and enjoy the little intimate moments as husband and wife”. 

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The facilities of a world-class travel destination are sure to afford them many avenues to do so. From its opulent feasts and gifts to exquisite hotel packages and relaxing spa treatments, Solaire gives you every reason and chance to pamper your spouse this yuletide stretch. This season, aside from posh staycation experiences, indulge in Solaire's distinguished restaurants and bars too, all of which boast their own respective seasonal offerings until the New Year. Those seeking a fine Italian dinner must simply try the new menu and six-course dinner at Finestra which makes for an ideal romantic date night.

This year, Janeena and Morgan look forward to sharing more of their lives with those who love them, near and far. “We’re planning to share our Christmas story through content on our social media platforms for everyone to experience the same love and warmth we have in our family,” Janeena shares. Beyond the holidays, she also notes, “I’m excited to see how well we’ll adjust to our new roles. It’ll still be a bit busy since our future home that’s being built is still in its finishing stages, but hopefully, we’ll ease right into it once it’s time to move in.”

Be it the inseparable bond of Kelly and Mika or the blissful romance between newlyweds Janeena and Morgan—their stories remind us what makes this season truly special. At the same time, each experience at Solaire is curated to enhance the joy of the season, creating an atmosphere where love and laughter flourish. Be enveloped in the warmth and magic of the holidays when you pay a visit soon, and let precious moments flow in the company of all you hold dear. 

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