Getting stoned

Tootie Adriano-Crisologo undoubtedly has impeccable taste. Hers is consistently the brightest, most colorful, most eye-catching stall in any bazaar. Twice a year she takes trips to exotic destinations to purchase the most interesting items for Filipinos to enjoy during the holiday season. This year she traveled to Ecuador to pick up oblong chokers and macrame heirloom pieces. She proceeded to Greece in search of chain necklaces made of beaten copper and dipped in silver. In Peru, she collected silver fpondillus and shawls made of wool/silk blends. In Chile she found lappiz lazuli and leopard jasper rings.

Tootie’s company Casa Amarilla was named for her Alabang house that was originally bright yellow. The house (a virtual eye candy!) is now painted magenta and has a profusion of gumamelas resting on its gate. The vibrancy, the fascinating mix of style and child-like whimsy, is so much a Casa Amarilla tradition.

"People want something special on the holidays," Tootie says. "Not everyone has the opportunity to travel and scout for treasures in exotic countries. I am happy to be able to bring my discoveries to Manila and happier still that they are appreciated by all!"