Plus, what it’s like to get married right before lockdown
After being together for nine years, #relationshipgoals couple Miss World 2013 titleholder Megan Young and actor-model Mikael Daez, finally tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony in Subic last Jan. 25, 2020.
More than just a month after their wedding, the newlyweds embarked on a challenging journey as the rest of the world was pushed to stay indoors due to Covid-19 threats. This isolation paved a way for the couple to discover each other even more. In an exclusive interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Korean aesthetic skincare brand AHC’s ambassador Megan reveals the relationship lessons she learned during quarantine. She also revealed her and her husband’s beauty regimen, which serve as the couple’s bonding.
Since most of us are stuck at home, what are the things that you’ve learned about each other?
We’ve learned about each other’s fun and quirky side. It’s natural that there are things we don’t agree on, but we make sure to settle it quickly and talk about them. Also, Mikael and I were able to connect to a deeper level because we like a lot of things at the same time. He gets what I want and it’s always the same way around.
Are there any topics you’ve argued about? How did you handle it?
We’ve been sharing a lot on our #BehindRelationshipGoals podcast, but one common thing that we deal with is that sometimes I may take an hour or two to get ready and Fofo (her pet name for Mikael) has no choice but to wait for me.
From simple to big things––the best solution to handle each situation is to always have an open mind and maintain constant communication. Once you get married, it’s not just about you anymore. It’s through compromise and understanding that marriage works.
As newlyweds, do you have any relationship realizations now that you’re officially husband and wife?
Being engaged for five years, I think we’ve ultimately readied ourselves for marriage. We know that there are going to be ups and downs but what’s important is that, at the end of the day, we try to bring out the best in each other.
They say that when you’re in love, you glow more. Do you believe this?
Definitely. When you’re in love, the joy radiates from within.
How does being in love make you glow—inside and out?
Being in love makes you more inspired to become the best version of yourself. You take care of yourself more, especially when you have someone who also cares about and values your overall wellbeing. Having a partner to motivate you and help reach your goals and milestones together is very fulfilling.
Can you also share with us your self-care routine as a couple?
From gaming, morning coffee time, play time with Soba (their dog) to vlogs and podcasts recordings––all the things we love to do together is our form of self-care. It’s fulfilling that we’re able to help each other get a sense of sanity most especially this time. Some small ways of coping that we’ve done during the quarantine are making new routines, trying to learn new things, and appreciating things like fresh air on our balcony.
How important is it for the two of you to keep your beauty routine even while at home?
Of course, we have work commitments even while at home so Mikael and I make sure to look pleasing and presentable. But more than anything else, I believe having our own beauty routine or whatever form of self-care should be more valued at this time. It doesn’t matter if you’re in quarantine or not. At the end of the day, when you take care of yourself, it’s you who will benefit from it.
Can you share with us your beauty routine now that we are in quarantine?
To me, having a beauty routine isn’t just about the products that I put on my face and my body—it’s about overall self-care. I still do the same things that I’ve always done even before quarantine, such as exercising, having balanced meals, and trying to get enough sleep. Most importantly, I make sure to take care of my skin because healthy skin reflects our overall wellbeing.
Good thing, I’ve joined AHC’s #21DaysToGlow campaign that inspires people to create holistic self-care. It is a virtual diary of expert tips and inspirations to help people find their best selves through skincare rituals that are inspired by Korean techniques. When it comes to my go-to skincare product, I use The Pure Real Eye Cream For Face, an all-in-one, anti-aging eye cream that’s made for both the eyes and face. I love how it makes my skincare routine very simple yet still gives me the glow that I need.
Lastly, what are your three tips on nurturing a lasting relationship?
First, always keep open communication. Honesty is the most important ingredient for a lasting relationship. Being open with each other, whether it’s about good or bad things, helps the relationship grow stronger to withstand challenges.
Second, keep things at your own pace. Never let other people pressure you to do things unless you’re both comfortable with it. Every marriage has its own timeline so don’t base yours on other people’s expectations.
Finally, set aside time for yourself. Being married doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to be together every time or that you can’t function without the other.