Things You Should Consider When Shopping for Furniture

Choosing the right furniture is essential for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. Here are some tips to help you make the best furniture choices for your home:

Determine Your Budget: First things first. Before you start shopping, establish a budget that you are comfortable with. This will help you narrow down your choices and stop you from exceeding your budget. 

Consider Your Space: Measure the dimensions of the room where you plan to place the furniture. Ensure that you have enough space for the furniture you want without overcrowding the room. 

Define Your Style: Decide on the style and aesthetic you want for your space. Do you prefer modern, traditional, minimalist, or eclectic furniture? 

Choose colors and finishes that coordinate with your room's color scheme. Neutral colors are versatile and can be paired with various decor styles, while bolder colors can make a statement. Try imagining how your furniture will work with accessories like rugs, curtains, and lighting. These elements can enhance the overall look and feel of your space.

Quality Matters: Invest in quality and durable furniture that lasts. High-quality furniture may be more expensive upfront but can save you money in the long run by not needing frequent replacements.

Check the materials used in the furniture. Materials differ in terms of durability and the maintenance required. 

Think About Functionality: Consider the purpose of each piece of furniture. Will it serve a specific function, such as storage or seating? Ensure that the furniture you choose meets your practical needs.

Comfort is a Priority: When selecting items like sofas, chairs, and mattresses, prioritize comfort. Sit or lie on them to assess how comfortable they are, as you'll be using them regularly.

Whenever possible, try out the furniture in-store or view it in person to get a better sense of its quality, comfort, and appearance.

You can also read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family who have purchased similar furniture. This can provide valuable insights into the quality and their experience using it. 

Delivery and Assembly: Factor in delivery and assembly when making your decision, especially if you're buying large or heavy items. Some retailers offer delivery and assembly services which can be convenient.

Keep in mind that choosing furniture is a personal and creative process. Take your time to explore options, and don't be afraid to mix and match styles to create a unique and comfortable living space that suits your needs and preferences.

Frighteningly Good: How Aswangs Captivate Young Readers

Halloween is months away, but children worldwide are eager to snuggle up with their favorite spooky books. However, most of these books are not actually scary but rather fantastical stories with elements of adventure and heroism. In the Philippines, scary children's literature is a rare commodity, but it doesn't have to be. 

Enter Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan, a middle-grade novel for young readers exploring the rich tapestry of Philippine folklore and myth through intriguing and petrifying legends. Authored by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte, it has received glowing reviews from young readers. The book's first printing had also sold out during recent book fairs around the country, surprising many.

The Philippines has an extensive collection of stories rooted in folklore, specifically aswang myth, answering what kids love hearing about - gruesome terrors that have kept generations of Pinoys on the edge of their seats. Pasaporte sought to explore this in his novel, utilizing his creativity and knowledge to share stories that have long been ingrained in Pinoy culture.

With his extensive podcast production and marketing background, Pasaporte has combined diverse skillsets to produce a book that aims to introduce today's generation to the rich tapestry of Philippine folklore and create a world for imaginative readers.

Manila International Book Fair 2023

Don't miss Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte's book signing event on September 17 at 11:30 a.m. (Sunday) at the Manila International Book Fair 2023 - SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City. Meet the author and learn more about his inspiration for writing Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan.

It's about time that we immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Philippine folklore and take this fantastic opportunity to understand more of our cultural identity through stories of aswangs. See you on September 17 and enjoy free merchandise giveaways.