“THE FIVE GUIDING PRINCIPLES I LIVE BY”

Glamorous, gregarious and armed with a wicked sense of humour, Grace Yeh is better known as a society stalwart than a motherly matriarch. In the first interview and photo shoot conducted from her new home, she chats with Jane Ngiam about her dreams and values — and opens up on the legacy she wants to leave to her children and grandchildren.

- Jane Ngiam

THE gentle pitter-patter of raindrops cascades onto the swimming pool, its melodious rhythm inspiring calm. A squirrel scampers across the water wall feature, seeking shelter. Inside the house, a flurry of hushed activity underscores the event that is taking place — while our crew is setting up for the photoshoot and the hairdryer is trained on her tresses at full blast, Grace Yeh’s grandchildren are excitedly rifling through the racks of outfits we brought along, even as a small army of helpers are putting the finishing touches on a festive table of fruit, snacks, and drinks.

“I’m not a person who does things in half measures,” Grace says with a broad smile as she is having her makeup done. “It’s all or nothing for me.”

And she is true to her word. Ever since she agreed to our request for an interview, Grace has activated her entire household to prepare for this shoot. From decorating the house to reorganizing the grandchildren’s schedules and feeding the crew, everyone — from her family to her team of six domestic helpers — has been roped in to play a part.

“I’M NOT A PERSON WHO DOES THINGS IN HALF MEASURES. IT’S ALL OR NOTHING FOR ME”