Michelle Garcia: With a Grateful Heart
MANILA, Philippines - She is thankful for every blessing big or small that comes her way. She is full of gratitude for a new day, good health, a safe trip and the food on the table. That is just how she lives her life happy and thankful with what she has.
Marriott Hotel Manila marketing communications manager Michelle Garcia has actually a lot more to be grateful for. “I am thankful for all the blessings that God has given me — my family, friends and the world,” she begins. All these, including her “24/7 prestigious job.” She says that there is never a dull moment working in a hotel. Before she became part of the Marriott family, Michelle was with Fuego Hotels, handling marketing communications for four different properties. “That was tough but it gave me the passion to love public relations. I got to meet the who’s who of different companies and organizations. Also, knowing people from the media industry was very interesting.” As for her current stint with Marriott, Michelle is proud to have been part of the hotel’s pre-opening team. She explains, “The hotel just opened in October 2009. I’ve been with the team for almost a year. Time flies so fast that I didn’t even notice Christmas is coming so soon.”
Michelle starts her day with a heavy breakfast, aware that loads of concerns are waiting for her at work. When she gets to the office, she makes sure to begin the day with a prayer before proceeding to her “action items for the day.”
“As a Marriott standard, daily briefing starts at exactly 8:30 a.m., followed by newspaper reading, e-mail corresponding and meetings,” she explains. This hotel executive shares that one of her passports to success is looking for opportunities even before being asked. “Perform and do more. Working for a hotel is tough but it can be easy if you know every aspect of your job.” She lists down the three things she can’t leave the house without: “My official mobile phone, my favorite Oakley crosshair shades and a pair of flat shoes or slippers.”
This certain sense of responsibility was perhaps acquired when at 18, she had her daughter Mitch Azile. She cites being a single mom at a young age as one of the most important parts of her life. “Taking responsibility at an early age is not easy. Maturity level has to be in its proper place and every action should be just right — no more, no less. My priorities during that time definitely changed.” Mitch says that she doesn’t want her daughter, now nine years old, to be a brat. “I’m a subtle disciplinarian,” she smiles. “Even if I’m busy with work, I make sure to spend time with her either by helping her with her lessons, listening to her as she plays the piano or eating mangoes together.”
Beauty, according to this 27-year-old careerwoman, is everywhere. “But you can only see it when you know how to appreciate things.” Michelle also believes that makeup doesn’t change a woman — it only enhances her features. Her makeup kit staples include liquid foundation, a great bronze blush with a little shimmer, mascara (“I love black or brown mascara. It makes my eyelashes look great.”) and lip gloss. A good conditioner and monthly salon visits are also some beauty secrets. Why does she love Ever Bilena? “It is a high quality product for a very reasonable price! I always believe in wise investment,” she declares.
Michelle always counts her blessings. And with her appreciative heart, she is bound to receive more and more of them.
Photography by John Darilag • Styling by Belle Camarsi and Reg Rodriguez • Makeup by Ana Abainza for Ever Bilena • Hairstyling by Arman Mista for Ever Bilena • Printed wrap dress by Tango, aqua three-strand necklace and aqua drop earrings, stylist’s own • Olive dress with ruffle detail by Tango, pearl bracelet, stylist’s own and pearl earrings, model’s own
