Tags: Chunky Chewelries Lifestyle Blog Lifestyle Blogger Lifestyle Blogger in Manila Philippines Meg Hernandez Meghann Hernandez Metro Mom Mommy blogger Mommy blogger in Manila Philippines motherhood
Living in this modern age and fast-paced environment, it’s refreshing to see more mothers embracing healthy beginnings when it comes to parenting and caring for their baby. Be it mothers who do office work or stay at home, they have committed themselves to a lifestyle that responds to the baby’s early nourishment and needs, from breastfeeding to paying heed to long-term emotional and physical benefits of swaddling, bonding and cuddling.
Bonding and developing strong ties with the little one help foster a sense of security and better self-esteem. Touch becomes an early language as your baby responds to skin-to-skin contact. Not only does it bring peace and comfort, it also helps the child’s social and cognitive development. At close range, creating a bond through your eyes, smile and voice also help babies improve their communication skills.
This cuddle connection is the inspiration behind the conception of Chunky Chewelries, an accessory brand created by fellow mom, Rachel Anne Puno, This line of soft, non-toxic, baby-friendly neckpieces, both for mom and child, not only promote bonding, but also functional fashion with styles that fit any kind of baby and adult wear from smart-casual to basics and playful patterns.
Photo courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno
The necklace beads are made from silicone that are BPA-free and non-toxic. They are safe for babies as they also do not contain lead, phthalate, and cadmium. Beads do not use paint for colors, but are, instead, tinted with food grade colorings. The tie that binds the beads together is made of thick satin cord, which is impossible for any baby to tear out. All pieces are waterproof, washable, heat-resistant, and feature a breakaway clasp for added safety. This breakaway clasp only pops open with a strong tug.
Photo courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno
The beads are soft in texture and can be used by babies during their teething stage, when their gums are all sore, painful and itchy. The chewelry also helps babies focus on feeding, develop eye and hand coordination, and hand muscles.
Photo courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno
As a stay-at-home mom, Rachel found this venture fulfilling, as it helps her stay focused on her family. She says this business allowed her more time to be with her baby, while doing what she loves best. Crafting was an important part of her childhood and she couldn’t be any happier than working hands-on with her brand, from crafting beads together to answering inquiries and overseeing deliveries.
Photo courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno
Since its launch in August 2015, Chunky Chewelries has gained a significant following and reached out to a wide range of clientele, from fellow moms in Dubai, Singapore and other regions in the Philippines, including Filipino celebrities. With her growing business, Rachel saw the need to partner with exclusive distributors in different cities in the country and abroad.
“I know the pains and joys of a mom, and how we try and balance the attention we give to our family and ourselves. I want the necklaces to be accessible to everyone, which is why I priced them reasonably between PHP350 to PHP1,000, depending on the style. I now have about 35 chewelry styles and 45 shades to choose from. I also have teething clips, pendants for easy grip, and bracelets for babies.”
Photo courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno
“For babies 1-year old and below, I would suggest moms get the regular 33-inch necklace. It may seem longer than it’s supposed to be, but that’s how it will serve its purpose. You wouldn’t want the short pieces to be worn by your babies since it’ll be hard for them to grab and chew on the beads. Also, it might cause some pain on the neck if they force to tug it closer to their mouth. Ideally, it should be the mom wearing the short necklaces so the little one can chew on the chewelry while being carried.”
Talking about functionality, Rachel shares some tips, “It is best to keep the chewelry in a container inside the fridge, before handing it to the little ones. Keeping it cool or cold provides added relief to sore gums. For moms, I find it best to pair the chewelry with a plain top or dress. Any goes, really. Chunky Chewelries help make motherhood look more fun and colorful!”
Photo courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno
Log on to @chunkychewelries and @chunkychewelries_catalogue on Instagram to view more sample pieces and styles you can wear them with. For orders, you may email chunkychewelries@gmail.com or contact 09258690233.
Photos courtesy of Rachel Anne Puno.
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Story published on my newspaper column in Edge Davao.
