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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Fashion and Beauty devider Love, lipstick, and Le Labo

Love, lipstick, and Le Labo

How beauty became this couple's love language and expression of pride

Published Jun 19, 2025 11:07 am
In celebration of Pride Month, we spotlight a love that glows like highlighter and lingers like a signature scent. Meet Mervin Teo V. Wenke, head of communications, Google Philippines and Eric Kimson A. Reyes, HR business partner, the Asia Development Bank, a proud couple whose shared passion for makeup and perfumes goes beyond aesthetics. For them, it’s a form of self-expression, empowerment, and connection. From experimenting with the latest makeup products to discovering new fragrances together, their beauty rituals represent pride, partnership, and the freedom to be unapologetically themselves.
What first drew you to each other?
Mervin: It wasn’t love at first sight. It was something that grew over time. Eric is cute, so I was interested. But what made me fall in love with him was his values, style, intelligence, and perspective. As we talked more, I got to know his heart and soul. He helped me see the world differently. We laugh a lot, share so many fun moments, and have common interests like films. All of that made, and continues to make, me fall for him even more.
Can you describe your first date?
M: Our first date was in a place we called “Parang” (which means “meadow” in English). It was an abandoned village my high school friends and I discovered one summer. I brought Eric there on April 3, 2015 so we could hang out and have a meaningful conversation. It was such a memorable day that we still celebrate it.
How has your relationship evolved over the years, and has your beauty style changed with it?
M: Our relationship has definitely matured over time. For almost the first half of it, we weren’t living together, so the dynamic was very different. Then the pandemic happened, and we ended up under the same roof. We got to know each other on an even deeper level—quirks, routines, and even how he conducted his online meetings, haha! Our beauty style evolved too. Before, we didn’t put much effort into skincare or makeup. Now, it’s one of life’s essentials! We can’t even go out and see friends without makeup!
Is there a specific scent, lipstick shade, or product that reminds you of a special moment in your relationship?
M: Le Labo perfumes! It all started when Eric gifted me Santal 33 for our seventh anniversary in 2022. That gift kicked off our love for niche perfumes, and now we’ve lost count of how many bottles we’ve gone through.
How do you make each other feel beautiful—with and without makeup?
M: We support and celebrate each other’s wins and during low moments, we make sure to really listen and be there for one another. We’re also very vocal about appreciating how each other looks—with or without makeup. We love everything from our oily or just-woke-up faces to our nighttime skincare routines. It’s all beautiful to us.
What’s the most romantic gesture you love about each other?
M: Our romantic gestures range from the mundane to the magical like washing or ironing a favorite shirt, or gifting a beloved beauty product. But one of my absolute favorites is when Eric randomly picks up a flower or leaf during our walks while on holiday and gives it to me. I press and laminate them to make bookmarks, so I can always remember those beautiful days.
How do you support each other when one of you feels insecure or less confident?
M: We remind each other that it’s just temporary or not that important. We always seem to know the right words and gestures to help one another feel secure, even on our lowest days.
What’s your idea of a “beautiful day” spent together?
M: It really depends on our mood. Sometimes it’s a good movie date with great coffee, makeup, and a stylish fit. Other times it’s quality time with our loved ones, including our dog Bing Su. And often, it’s just staying in to watch our favorite series and order comfort food. All of these are beautiful when we’re together.
Recently, the couple officially tied the knot, in celebration of their 10th anniversary as a couple, in their favorite place in New York City.
Their story reminds us that beauty isn't just found in perfumes or perfectly lined eyes,it’s in everyday moments of care, laughter, and love. Whether they’re experimenting with the latest blush or simply enjoying a quiet night in, their relationship is a celebration of authenticity and joy. In a world that often tells people to dim their light, Mervin and Eric choose to glow—boldly, proudly, and together.
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