Creative Home-Works at SM

Having worked for the local franchise of global fashion and lifestyle magazines like Marie Claire, Martha Stewart, Town & Country, and Hola, Rorie Carlos-Manzano has learned to be more experimental and discerning when it comes to the way she dresses, decorates, and entertains at home.

She also feels very fortunate to have been exposed to different exciting designers and brands who have influenced her personal style. These include Wynn Wynn Ong, “whose one-of-a-kind creations – from jewelry to furniture, homeware to clothing are also beautiful and special they’re like works of art.”

Rorie also loves the way international designers Kelly Wearstler, Eddie Ross, Miles Redd, and India Mahdavi mix classic styles with modern sensibilities and their use of colors, patterns, and texture.

Now that she’s a full-time Mom and homemaker, Rorie is happy she can indulge in home decorating and entertaining. Her dream house? “Vintage finds with a few modern pieces thrown in, Oriental touches paired with French-inspired furniture,” she says wistfully. “I love collecting things that have history and character. I would like lots of plants and natural light.”

As a long-time SM shopper, Rorie says that SM has been a huge part of her life “ever since I was a kid. From buying basics at the SM Department Store, learning how to ice skate, and eating at Almon Marina, El Pollo Loco, and Sbarro.”  That is why its home stores like Crate & Barrel come to mind when she is shopping for her home.

“I love Crate & Barrel,” she enthuses, “they have everything for your home.  I usually go to the tabletop and bar section. They have all these gorgeous yet functional items for entertaining. “

“I always tell my friends to head for the drinkware, table linens, and serveware,” she adds, “especially when they have new prints and designs out.  Plus, the staff is so helpful, knowledgeable and friendly!”

In fact, Rorie and daughter Maxinne, who is now a freshman in the UP College of Law, recently visited the store, each creating beautiful tablescapes, and revealing their individual elegant and eclectic tastes for entertaining at home.

“My family goes to SM at least once a week,” says Rorie.  “It truly has everything under one roof. The newest restaurants, fashion and beauty brands galore, local delicacies, and school supplies.  I love that you can do your errands there and not having to zip around the metro.”