Can I Tell You About…Joanna Preysler
Joanna Presyler with her #Joannaclutch.
Can I tell you about Joanna Preysler. We met over 30 years when I was a fashin designer in the Philippines. Recently, we’ve been reacquainted through her social media and our mutual friend Dawn Zulueta. She’s a wife, a mother and an entrepreneur. She and her husband Raul Francisco founded Provenance Art Gallery and 8Rooms Creative Space in Manila showcasing Filipino artists and mentoring emerging talents.
Among the numerous philanthropic causes she supports, Kalipay Negrense is one that is close to my heart because it is my birthplace and it is run by an outstanding fellow Negrense, Anna Balcells. The foundation runs 2 homes that are dedicated to the care of abandoned, malnourished, physically and sexually abused children.
Joanna’s compassion, integrity, zest for life and her exquisite style is inspirational; classic with a bohemian twist.
The Joanna clutch was inspired by her vibrant style and effervescent personality.
Read our Q & A :
1. What is your idea of happiness?
My idea of happiness is having tranquility in my heart, knowing my children are safe & healthy, and that Raul & I are in a peaceful place. I love being productive, accomplishing things with a higher purpose, and of course thriving as I live my truth. And having the luxury of time.
2. What is your greatest extravagance?
I would have to say that my greatest extravagance is travelling with my whole family. I have 3 children (plus their partners), so we are quite a sizable tribe. But I love to move as a pack, and it’s a blessing that my “kids” (ages 31, 26, and 15) still hang with us as often as they do. We share lots of hobbies, experiences, and adventures together - I wouldn’t have it any other way. My next guilty pleasure? I love pendants & rings!
3. What is your current state of mind?
Grateful. So freaking grateful.
Joanna wearing her #Joannaclutch at a beach wedding.
4. Whose style do you most admire?
I like the boho styles of Lauren Hutton & Elle Macphearson, the je nais se quois of Jane Birkin & Ines dela Fressange , some Olivia Palermo & Kelly Rutherford, and everything Ashley & Mary Kate Olsen. I am most inspired by real people that I see when I travel to cosmopolitan cities - style translated to real life and then, I make it my own.
5. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Designing my life with Raul, and walking into it with the intention of staying together, come what may, and creating a stable, secure home for our children. 23 years later, I can honestly say, we have done just that & more. I wish I could hit the “pause” button. Apart from that, my greatest achievement is also being at my best at 55 - my fitness level, having the strong body I’ve worked so freaking hard for, and feeling like a boss as I train every single day.
6. What is your most treasured possession?
The true answer (and the beauty contestant answer) would be “family” but that isn’t a possession. So I’d have to say - my little collection of gold chains & pendants, rings & bracelets. I love playing with them & stacking!
7. Who is your favorite writer?
I loved Dominick Dunne back in the day, just because his brand of investigative journalism was so captivating. His own daughter was murdered, and his writing was his way of finding closure from his tragedy.
8. Which living person do you most admire?
Persons!
My daughter Monica. She is 31, and everything I wish I could have been at her age. She has fearlessly made life-changing choices, and has maintained her optimism, her happy spirit, and her has not let anything keep her down. She is my only girl, and is honestly my best ally through everything in life.
My son Mio. He is 26, and is the kindest soul I have ever met. He is sensitive, hilarious, intelligent, and loves family above anything. He works for our galleries, and has made a significant impact that has helped our whole family. I would have loved to be just like him when I was 26.
My youngest Diego. He is 15, and is the boss of us. He is tenacious, relentless, and so hardworking. I have never seen a young man that is so driven, yet so cool & well-rounded. Academics, sports, socials - you name it - this kid is at the top of all his games! He’s got game!
I wish I were like him when I was 15.
9. Where is your dream destination?
My dream destination is the bank depositing a bajillion dollars! Kidding aside, anywhere with my family - home or otherwise - is paradise. And about 2 friends. That’s it!
10. What is your motto?
“Let them.” I love that.
