Love Languages: Willabelle Ong On What Her Daughter Ava Teaches Her About Love

“Our love is expressed in both quiet moments and spontaneous adventures.”
Willabelle Ong and her daughter, Ava
Willabelle Ong and her daughter, Ava (left). On Ava: Ava’s own dress, boots. On Ong: HERMÈS jacket, shirt, skirt, boot

Each holiday season, we bring together creative families—from siblings and couples to dynamic collectives—to celebrate the unique bonds that define their relationships. These families remind us that creativity isn’t just about artistic expression; it’s about connection. The magic of the season lies not only in the shared creativity but in the moments where love flows through thoughtful gestures, quality time, and the language that speaks to the heart. Kicking off this year’s “Love Languages” series is Willabelle Ong, a fashion content creator and the founder of OME Living. Here, Ong tells us about the special bond she shares with her two-year-old daughter, Ava.

In three words, how would you describe the relationship you have with your daughter, Ava?

Willabelle Ong (WO): Nurturing, trusting, irreplaceable.

How do you and Ava like to express your love and support to each other?

WO: Our love is expressed in both quiet moments and spontaneous adventures. Whether we’re holding hands on a walk, singing our favourite song together, or simply sitting side by side with a good book, those moments of connection are always rooted in mutual understanding. We support each other by being each other’s safe space.

What have you learned from Ava about loving and supporting someone?

WO: Ava has taught me the profound simplicity of unconditional love. She shows me that loving someone isn’t about always getting it right—it’s about showing up, no matter what. She has a huge, kind heart, and the ability to forgive quickly and move forward, which reminds me that love doesn’t need to be perfect to be real. Supporting someone is often about just being there, not with solutions, but with empathy and presence.

What is the most memorable gift you have received from Ava?

WO: The most memorable gifts I’ve received from Ava are simply her hugs and the way she lights up when she sees me. At two, she may not yet give material gifts, but her little gestures of love—like her tight hugs or the way she says “mama” with such warmth—mean the world to me. It’s in those moments that I feel the true depth of her love.

How do you spend the holidays meaningfully?

WO: For me, the holidays are a time to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. Above all, it’s about cherishing time with family—because those moments are what I hold most dear. I love laughing together, sharing inside jokes, and creating traditions that will carry on. It’s in these simple, shared moments that I find the true spirit of the season—connection, gratitude, and love.

This story first appeared in the December/January 2025 issue of GRAZIA Singapore.

BY CHERYL LAI-LIM, DANISHA LIANG AND PAMEYLA CAMBE
PHOTOGRAPHY ZANTZ HAN
ART DIRECTION MARISA XIN
STYLING KELLY HSU
HAIR AND MAKEUP JH LOW
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANTS ALEX NG, MICHELLE YAP, TAWFIQ ISMAIL
FASHION ASSISTANT LAURA LOUIS

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