With the holiday rush in full swing, Filipino families are now preparing not just their menus but also the atmosphere that will shape thei...
With the holiday rush in full swing, Filipino families are now preparing not just their menus but also the atmosphere that will shape their Noche Buena traditions. This weekend, Anko is opening its doors for two creative, family-friendly workshops designed to help households refresh their kitchen and dining rituals with guidance from experts in styling and coffee—perfect for moms who love elevating their celebrations while keeping things practical and personal.
Event stylist Elena Flor Salazar of Likha by Elena and coffee expert John Tumulak of Arcana Coffee will lead back-to-back sessions at Anko TriNoma on December 6 and Anko Alabang Town Center on December 7, both at 2:00 PM. These workshops offer hands-on tips and doable ideas that moms can apply right away for stress-free, warm, and unforgettable Christmas gatherings.
As many Filipino families prepare their classic Noche Buena dishes—lechon, ham, spaghetti, queso de bola—Anko reminds us that the look, feel, and flow of the celebration matter just as much as the food. With contemporary holiday décor, functional dinnerware, festive glassware, and cozy coffee essentials, Anko’s Christmas collection helps families host without the overwhelm. And for busy moms, this means creating a space that feels special yet manageable.
Here are some key recommendations the experts will share during the workshops, along with product inspirations from Anko Philippines.
Set a warm and intentional base
Salazar emphasizes the importance of the base layer—like a tablecloth or runner—because it sets the mood for the entire table. Adding charger plates or placemats builds dimension and makes the setup feel more thoughtful. She believes even busy moms can create beautiful tablescapes as long as they allow their personality to shine through. Her favorite advice: don’t overthink it. Create, adjust, and enjoy the process. What matters most is making your loved ones feel welcome the moment they sit down.
Product picks: Red Bow Placemat with Cutlery Pocket (₱190), Candy Stripe Table Runner (₱190), Charger Plates (₱130), Bow Gravy Boat (₱350), Peppermint Stripe Sleigh (₱350)
Play with rich holiday textures and colors
A visually warm Christmas table often comes from mixing textures—matte and glossy details, patterned fabrics with simple plates, and glassware that catches the light. According to Salazar, this contrast adds depth and movement without being overwhelming. Moms can start with pieces they already own and simply add a few holiday accents.
Product picks: Green Wavy Placemat (₱190), Green Contrast Edge Napkins (₱90), Christmas Gingerbread Ceramic (₱590), Holly Side Plates (₱490)
Use subtle accents to guide the eye
Small details can create impact without clutter. Salazar suggests choosing a few curated accents such as a handcrafted ornament, a dessert-ready stemless glass, or jars filled with treats. These little touches introduce personality while keeping the table functional—something busy moms will appreciate.
Product picks: Christmas Tree Cookie Jar (₱890), Gingerbread House Cookie Jar (₱890), Bottlebrush Trees (₱490), Standing Deers (₱540)
Let glassware elevate every setting
From wine glasses to themed tumblers, glassware can add elegance and versatility. These pieces can hold drinks, desserts, or even snacks—ideal for families who enjoy making their celebrations extra festive.
Product picks: Lustre Flute Glasses (₱300), Swirl Wine Glasses (₱300), Bow Stemless Glasses (₱390), Novelty Glasses (₱690), Gold Look Stemless Glasses (₱400), Red Ornate Tumbler Glasses (₱400)
Create a cozy home café corner
For many moms, the morning after Noche Buena is just as special. Coffee expert John Tumulak encourages families to set up small cozy pockets at home—a compact espresso machine, Christmas mugs, or a simple pour-over setup—to slow down and savor the holidays. During the workshops, he’ll share easy holiday coffee recipes perfect for family gatherings and dessert pairings.
Product picks: Bow Jars (₱350), Compact Espresso Machine (₱3,490), 3D Gingerbread Man Mugs & 3D Santa Mugs (₱290), Santa and Gingerbread Drink Jars (₱120)
The workshops are open to all families seeking fresh inspiration this Christmas. Moms can sign up through the Anko Club at anko.com/anko-club. Kids can also look forward to special Santa visits happening in the coming weeks. For more styling ideas, visit anko.com/ph/lookbook or follow @anko_philippines on Instagram and TikTok.
FAQ
What can families learn from Anko’s holiday workshops?
Participants will learn practical tablescaping techniques, décor layering, color and texture pairing, and simple holiday coffee recipes that families can easily recreate at home.
Are the workshops suitable for beginners?
Yes. The sessions are designed to be accessible for moms and families of all skill levels, offering simple, step-by-step ideas.
Do participants need to bring materials?
No. Anko provides the styling and coffee essentials used in the demonstrations. Attendees may simply observe, take photos, and get inspiration for their own homes.
Will kids enjoy the event?
Yes. Aside from the hands-on activities, Anko has upcoming Santa visits that make the workshops fun and family-friendly.
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