Love, thoughtfully placed on the table

Love Month has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute you’re scrolling through gift ideas, the next you’re asking yourself—what actually feels right? Flowers wilt. Chocolates disappear. But the kind of love that stays? That usually lives at home, quietly waiting in the details we return to every day.

In Filipino households, affection rarely announces itself. It settles in instead—present in the way meals are laid out, in the familiar rhythm of shared routines, in the objects that slowly become part of daily life. Love is felt in the care behind a warm dish, the patience behind a prepared table, the comfort of coming home to something familiar. And more often than not, it’s the homemaker who holds these moments together, shaping ordinary days into something softer and more meaningful.

This is why intentional gifting feels especially fitting this season. Less about impulse, more about thought. At SM Home in the SM Store, this idea quietly comes together through Green Finds—a selection of home pieces chosen for their purpose, longevity, and respect for both people and the environment. These are items designed not to impress for a moment, but to be lived with.

A wooden charcuterie board, for instance, becomes more than a backdrop for a romantic dinner or cocktails. Solid, unfussy, and easy to maintain, it transitions seamlessly from Valentine’s celebrations to slow Sundays and everyday family meals. Some designs are clean and classic, others feature thoughtful details like sturdy metal handles or soft leather accents. Crafted from responsibly sourced wood, they’re durable, scratch-resistant, and meant to endure—much like the care homemakers give without asking for recognition.

There are trays as well, warm in tone and quietly refined, that slip easily into daily life. Oval shapes, natural finishes, subtle textures—nothing loud, nothing forced. Whether used for serving merienda, setting down breakfast, or hosting intimate gatherings, they elevate the simple act of serving. They remind us that beauty doesn’t have to be delicate to be meaningful; sometimes, it simply needs to be reliable.

And then there’s scent—the invisible detail that can change the entire mood of a home. Reed diffusers gently release calming fragrances that help a space breathe, while candles offer a softer kind of comfort through flickering light and familiar aromas. Thoughtfully handcrafted by local artisans, these pieces do more than create atmosphere. They carry stories of creativity, care, and quiet craftsmanship, adding another layer of intention to the gift itself.

Together, these pieces from Green Finds at SM Home feel less like a collection and more like a way of living. They encourage us to slow down, to be mindful of what we bring into our homes, and to give in ways that reflect what we value. They honor not only the occasion, but also the people who make life feel fuller—our mothers, partners, loved ones, and the many Filipino hands behind every thoughtfully made piece.

This Love Month, may your gifts speak softly but sincerely. Of gratitude for the homemakers who nurture your days. Of care for the communities and environment that support us. And of love that is chosen with intention—placed gently on the table, and meant to stay long after the season has passed.

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Editor's note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring, and educational content created by The Philippine STAR in collaboration with brands like SM Home.