The art of gift-giving

CEBU, Philippines - Tinsel by the window, mistletoe hanging by the door, and beautifully wrapped presents under the Christmas tree. There is no holiday that is more joyful and loved than Christmas; especially in the Philippines, where the merry season actually starts months before the Christmas day. Year after year, Filipinos excitedly await the Christmas season.

It’s just like that year after year. And this year Rustan’s gives everyone more reasons to get excited – with its wide array of luxury gifts and goodies. It’s all there now, so the ‘ninongs’ and ‘ninangs’ and everyone else may already start their Christmas shopping in order to avoid the Christmas rush.

From elegant suits to socks for men, chic leather bags and beauty must-haves for ladies, Rustan’s makes the art of gift-giving more exciting. Intended recipients may be pleasantly surprised with wonderful picks from Rustan’s numerous luxury brands, labels and lines. The innumerable options can be overwhelming, there’s someone at Rustan’s to help find that special item to give from its exquisite selections.

The father of Rustan’s and a man renowned for his exceptional taste, Ambassador Bienvenido Tantoco Sr. chooses an array of timeless pieces – from a handsome Piaget watch, to light casual shirts by Ascot Chang, which are sure to delight all men who appreciate clean, classic styles. Paolo Tantoco and Anton Huang offer their own elegant selections that appeal to the younger male market, with striking shoes from Harry’s of London, and wonderful fashion pieces from Adolfo Dominguez, Faconnable and more.

For the CEO’s Picks, Zenaida Tantoco chooses a promising selection of stunning feminine pieces such as the Damiani Icon Ring and Loewe Flamingo Bag in red for the glamorous, empowered executive. And for her home, nothing is as luxurious as the masterpieces from Lalique and Lladro. Marilen Tantoco, on the other hand, lends her keen sense of style in choosing dazzling pieces for the ladies in your life. She recommends luxurious Natori ensembles perfect for the everyday and exquisite tea sets by Bernardaud. For the ladies with more eclectic tastes, Maritess Tantoco Enriquez recommends unique pieces that are statements in themselves – such as the ZIIO bracelets, Fendi bagcharms and an array of fashion-forward heels by Christian Louboutin.

Fashionable young ladies, on the other hand, will be inspired by the stylish picks of Camille and Nicole Tantoco, which reflect more trendy and contemporary styles. Nicole chooses clean, crisp looks from one of the newest brands Ricardo Preto and complementing accessories by Longchamp and Fendi. Camille goes for a more flirty touch with relaxed, feminine dresses by Darling London and Catwalk Junkie. She spruces this up with MAC beauty essentials and Shashi accessories.

Those who still can’t decide on what to pick for themselves or their fashionable friends and family may visit their favorite Rustan’s store and allow the expert personal shoppers and sales associates help them discover the great selections of gifts available at the store.

And there’s more for Rustan’s shoppers this Christmas. Every gift purchase gets the chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to some of the most wonderful destinations in the world.

For every minimum single-receipt purchase at Rustan’s Department Store, one gets a raffle ticket for one of three wonderful trips to great destinations! A winner may live like Audrey Hepburn for a day in the heart of New York City and be given a private tour around the official headquarters of Tiffany & Co. at 5thAvenue.  Another winner may enjoy a luxurious escapade to France, be whisked away to Hotel Hochber, the exclusive hotel of the illustrious decorative crystal brand, Lalique, and have an unparalleled experience staying at one of their six unique suites.

For young families, a fun getaway awaits in Malaysia’s first international theme park, LegoLand® Malaysia Resort. They may have a grand stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel and enjoy playful days with the kids at the LEGOLAND Theme Park and Water Park.

Rustan’s is located at Ayala Center Makati, Shangri-la Plaza, Alabang Town Center, Gateway Mall Araneta Center, and Ayala Center Cebu. The social media accounts are at www.facebook.com/rustansph and @RustansPH on Instagram and Twitter. (FREEMAN)