Baguio entrepreneur marks major milestone as local gift shop opens permanent store

BAGUIO CITY – For Evangeline Dao-anis, building a brand has always been about more than just transactions; it’s about the “thoughtful gesture.” This month, that journey reached a defining milestone as her homegrown brand, Gifts by Immari, moved from temporary pop-up exhibits to a permanent retail space in the heart of the city.

The story began in 2015 with Mezeve Occasions, a modest party and souvenir shop born from a simple goal: bringing joy to local celebrations. What started with children’s parties soon evolved into weddings and everyday milestones, shaped by the personal stories and connections Evangeline formed with her customers along the way.

As the brand grew, it found its footing through local bazaars, including several MSME showcases at SM City Baguio. These platforms allowed the business to test the market, reach a wider community, and refine its purpose. By June 2024, the momentum from these exhibits led to a permanent kiosk within your most loved mall, SM City Baguio Mall, a significant leap for any small business owner.

Inspired by an upbringing filled with simple but meaningful celebrations, Evangeline built Gifts by Immari on the belief that feeling valued is essential to well-being. Her brand focuses on making gifting both accessible and personal, offering customized items designed to express affirmation and connection.

“Gifting should be simple and thoughtful,” says Dao-anis. At her new permanent location, customers can have items personalized on the spot, transforming a quick purchase into a genuine expression of care.

The evolution of Gifts by Immari from a small local venture to a stable retail fixture reflects a broader trend of homegrown talent scaling up in the Highlands. By moving into a permanent space, the brand not only secures a sustainable livelihood but also contributes to the local economy while keeping Baguio’s unique creative spirit alive. Today, as Gifts by Immari grows, it stays true to its original mission: making people feel seen and appreciated. It’s a reminder that in a fast-paced world, small acts of thoughtfulness and the courage of local entrepreneurs can have a lasting impact on a community.