Melissa Celestine Koh talks Christmas, Motherhood, and Her Love for Zalora
To celebrate Zalora’s upcoming 12.12 campaign, we talk to creator Melissa Celestine Koh about how the platform has made navigating motherhood that much easier.
This December, e-platform Zalora has brought the festive yuletide and merry gift of giving over to their 12.12 campaign. Themed ‘It’s Game On’, you can expect only the best deals on everything and anything this Sunday – be it gifts for your loved ones this Christmas or indulgent ones for yourself in the name of self-care.
Below, we talk to local creative and Zalora-enthusiast Melissa Celestine Koh about her love for the platform and the act of gifting. “I love that it is a huge marketplace where I can get almost everything I need under one roof,” says Koh. “Buying gifts from the heart for others makes them feel happy, and in turn, makes me happy too.” On top of that, the creator shares her Zalora gift guides for the festive season, as well as her personal journey as a working mother and wife during this time.
How has life changed since having kids? What changes or sacrifices have you had to make?
Family has taken over my life and become my biggest priority. It has taken up a lot of my time and energy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve had to give up some work opportunities because of family commitments but it has also helped me to re-pivot my business in a certain way, by re-focusing and prioritising work/campaigns that really matter most to me and are close to heart.
It must be challenging to juggle your own business and responsibilities as a mother. How do you cope with it all?
Blocking out time for each helps me to dedicate my full focus and attention to it. Breaking down big things into smaller ones helps make them more digestible. My biggest advice is to cut yourself some slack and just give your 100% always. That’s always enough.
Do you have any fun activities planned for the family this Christmas season?
We love immersing ourselves in the festive spirit by taking a drive downtown! We admire the lights from our car (to avoid the crowds) and blast Christmas carols in the car. We also love attending Christmas markets to bask in the atmosphere. This year, aside from church, we plan to spend time at home with family and friends, exchanging gifts and singing carols.
What kind of fun activities does your son gravitate most to?
Noah loves to play pretend. He enjoys using his imagination. His favourite roles to play are chef and doctor. He also loves building. He gets really immersed into building “things'' like a home, a farmhouse, a police station, a petrol kiosk, etc. We love taking him outdoors as that’s the best way to expense his energy.
How has your sense of fashion changed since becoming a mother?
I’m usually quite versatile. I love playing dress-up. One day, I’d be in feminine florals and another, I’d be in an all-black chic jumpsuit. But with time, I’ve realised that the more timeless and classic and high-quality pieces stay with me.
How have platforms like Zalora made it easier for you to shop as a working mother?
A one-stop-shop saves me a lot of time and effort. I check out in one big cart and most of my Christmas shopping is settled in a single purchase. I’m happy to be able to find something meaningful for everyone – from personal care to home & living to fashion to toys and even baby essentials!
How have you elevated your personal space or home with Zalora’s home essentials and living decor?
With simple styling items, I’ve spruced up my bedside table with candles, and my dresser with beautiful vases and ornaments. It makes me feel good every time I look at it.
Are there any clothing or brands from Zalora’s e-platform that have caught your eye this festive season?
My favourite brands like Mango, Pomelo, COS, H&M have beautiful festive selections. While picking out for the festive season, I picked out some simple basics that will definitely gain some mileage.
What would you personally recommend as gifts from Zalora?
I’d recommend shopping for styling items like accessories and handbags as well as more practical items like baby essentials and even sportswear like Adidas!
What is the one thing you wish everyone would embrace this festive season?
The spirit of love and joy. It’s the perfect season to show appreciation to those who matter.
What’s one thing you and your family would like to focus on this Christmas?
We’d like to be a little more inward this year by reconnecting deeply with one another through prayer and thanksgiving.
Lastly, as a mother, what’s the one gift you’d appreciate this Christmas?
To be honest, the best gift I could ask for is having my family close to me, safe and sound. Nothing would make me happier than that.
