Sarah Lahbati gets candid about taking a career break, being a young mom and a devoted wife, and what’s most important to her now
This is an excerpt from the MEGA December 2023 – January 2024 issue.
Sarah Lahbati Gutierrez is one of Philippine fashion’s darlings. Her 8 million (as of this story’s publication) Instagram followers eagerly follow her every move, whether it’s a self-styled editorial shoot showcasing the latest trends or a peek into her equally glamorous family life. Sarah’s evolution from an actress to becoming one of the most sought-after style stars in the country seems almost seems like a fairytale. In this MEGA exclusive, she writes about the reality of her seemingly charmed life in the spotlight.
FAMILY COMES FIRST
People know that I took a break from my career when I became a mother. It was a conscious decision, and I am grateful that I did it. I’m grateful to my management for allowing me to do that. Those pauses allowed me to fully immerse myself in the precious moments and important milestones of my children’s lives. I didn’t want to miss out on any of their growth and development, and I am thankful to my husband Richard for his support, for shouldering the responsibilities of providing for our family during those times.
As a wife, I have always strived to be supportive, loving, and present for Richard. Throughout our journey together, I have stood by his side, cheering him on in every endeavor, and offering guidance and support along the way. Our marriage, like any other, has its imperfections, but I take pride in knowing that I am a devoted and caring wife.
Becoming a mother at a young age has been a transformative experience for me. It has had a profound impact on my life, changing my perspective in the most beautiful and profound ways.
From the moment I found out I was pregnant with Zion, I knew that motherhood was my calling, despite the challenges that came along with it, such as sleepless nights, physical discomfort, being away in Switzerland, breastfeeding, and postpartum depression.
Despite those challenges, my life changed in the most incredible way. Zion and Kai, my children, are my greatest blessings. They have taught me invaluable lessons and continue to do so every day. Suddenly, the things that I thought were important before my pregnancy seemed insignificant compared to the depth and meaning that my children have brought into my life.
Read more about Sarah Lahbati’s thoughts on her family, career and life decisions in MEGA’s December 2023 – January 2024 issue, now available on Readly, Magzter, Press Reader and Zinio.
Photography SHAIRA LUNA
Creative Direction BRIE VENTURA
Fashion Direction KAT CRUZ-VILLANUEVA and RYUJI SHIOMITSU
Beauty Direction AGOO AZCUNA-BENGZON, assisted by MIA CASTRO
Makeup DENISE OCHOA
Hair MONG AMADO
Nails POSH NAILS
Sittings Editors PEEWEE REYES-ISIDRO and BAM ABELLON
Production JONES PALTENG
Fashion Assistant BITHIA REYES
Shoot Coordination LAURD SALEN and SAMANTHA ESTANIEL
Multimedia Artist GJ FAJILAN
Styling Assistants KURT ABONAL and SHAIRA ABRAHAM
Video Production REGINA ACERON
Videography LORENZO CORRO
Dogs KENYA and MUNICH of LUXURI PETS
Shot on location VILLA MILAGROS EVENTS VENUE
Special thanks to DR. Z and DR. AIVEE TEO of LUXURI PETS, MYLA CAMMAYO of OPULENCE DESIGN CONCEPTS, and JUSTINE BUMANLAG
