Day 11
Violet Ho, 43, regional director of Sephora in South and South-east Asia
Beauty junkies here have Ho to thank for the latest cosmetics haven, Sephora.
The French multi-label chain opens its first Singapore store today in Takashimaya Shopping Centre.
As its regional director, she is responsible for bringing in the more than 100 brands on the shelves, including 30 brands that are new to Singapore.
She left her position as general manager of L'Oreal Singapore's luxury products division in May to helm Sephora's foray into South-east Asia.
Over the next three years, she will oversee the opening of up to three Sephora stores here and 30 in the region, including Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia.
She is married with two children.
What's your ideal present for Christmas?
The Kenzoki Belle De Jour cream because it is a good night cream with a great texture and a very relaxing scent.
What was the best thing that happened to you this year?
Making a career change and getting the job with Sephora in May.
Before that, I was with L'Oreal Singapore for seven years. So while I'm still dealing with cosmetics, I'm now on the retail side instead of being with a particular brand. As a retailer, I have to look at product mix across different brands to bring in the latest and most innovative products for customers.
What was the worst?
My daughter sat for her A levels last month so balancing being there for her with the new store has been a challenge.
As a parent, I worry because it was a difficult time for her.
What's your wish for 2009?
My key concern for next year would be the financial turmoil.
I pray that my family and friends will be in good shape and that they will be able to get through it.
Wish list (from top row, left to right in Photo 11)
1. Sisley radiance anti-ageing concentrate, $550
2. Estee Lauder Resilience Lift Extreme ultra firming cream with SPF 15, $127
3. Clinique Superdefense SPF 25 Age Defense moisturiser, $89
4. Frederic Fekkai Technician Colour Care 3 Minute Mask, $52
5. MTX anti-wrinkle face cream, $227
6. Pola Sakura Veil Moisturizing gel cream, $65
7. Bliss Youth As We Know It anti-ageing moisture cream, $65
8. Lancome Absolue Nuit Premium night cream, $295
9. Sephora Face Age Defying Night Care, $60
10. Dior Capture Totale Multi-perfection Rich Creme, $149
11. Kenzoki Belle De Jour, $205
All items from Sephora, B1-05 Takashimaya Shopping Centre
Photographer: ALAN LIM; Creative director: JEROME AWASTHI; Hair and make-up: SHAUN LEE using Sephora make-up and Frederic Fekkai hair products; Location: Ferrell Residences Showsuite, 327 Bukit Timah Road; Special thanks to Robinsons for Christmas tree and decorations
This article was first published in The Straits Times on Dec 19, 2008.
