'Tis the Season to be busy... 2

We had a crazy, busy December. Just like last year. But, who's complaining? =D

December 13

FSI Christmas Party

Allan and I ended up hosting the event. Our day started as early as 9AM and ended at 4PM. Parang children's party. Hehe! I was dead tired but had a really great time.

Our intention for hosting the event was to get away from performing that day. Although I also ended up as the choreographer of our dance presentation, it was less stressful for me. After teaching them the steps, that was it for me. =D

We won second place! For the past years, we always had the worst presentation. At least second na ngayon! =D

Dinner at Tokyo Cafe

Together with my office barkada, we had dinner at Tokyo Cafe in MOA. Since Irish, Allan and I had lunch there a few days ago, we thought of bringing the other peeps there. Joven joined us after work. After loads of laughter and kwentuhan, we decided to call it a night. Joven and I went around shopping but were unsuccessful with what we want.


December 16

Last minute errands and more shopping

We started the day with a few errands - meeting his Tita and accompanying my mom for some of her holiday shopping.

As a surprise, we brought her to the appliance center to buy our gift for her. My sister and I (of course with Joven) decided to get her a brand new television. Since our TV broke down a month ago, my mom has been watching her favorite teleseryes in a 14" TV. We got her a 29" TV this time. At least di na nya huhulaan yung tao. Hehe!

Joven and I decided to get our own 29" TV as well. Now we can watch DVDs at the comfort of our bedroom. Nice! That was our big gift for each other. =D


December 17

More Shopping

Joven asked me a life-changing question a few weeks back: "Magic Sing or PS2?" Aaaaaargh! I said I needed to think about it. I ended up asking people around me.

Magic Sing it is! Haha!

We bought ours after dropping off at Nanay's. Shempre, tinest agad! I think it took them four hours to make me stop. Hahaha!


December 19

Lunch at Krua Thai

Our boss treated for us for a sumptuous lunch. The whole group went to Blue Wave and ended up at Krua Thai. Parang last meal, super busog! Minsan lang 'to, kaya dapat i-blog. Haha!

Get-Together with Lalaine from UK

My high school best friends, Con (with hubby, Arjahn), Lalaine and I (with Joven) met at SM San Lazaro. Lalaine went home for the holidays and to try to make arrangements for her wedding on 2008. Dinner was at Congo Grille and, since we cannot get a decent seat at Starbucks, coffee was at Coffee Dream. Laughter and chika non-stop. *Sigh* Miss the simple life of high school.


December 20

Vidoeke at Music Match with Office Barkada

Much awaited! We prepared for it (with matching exchange gifts) for almost a month. Videokes are never the same without these people. They sure know how to have fun. We really had a great time! =D

Unfortunately, we didn't have a camera at hand so we ended up begging for pics instead. =P

Here are the ones from Yax and Dhang.


December 21

Videoke with SML

What?? Videoke again? Haha! You'd think that partying till 1AM will stop us? Nah. I even came to the office before 9AM. Joven was in his office earlier. =D

The night was for SML this time. Richie came home after a year of studies in the US (he'll be back there in January though). We haven't had any videoke session when Richie was away. So what would be best but to welcome him with one. Ryan, Cors, The Bs were also present. It was great to hear Cors singing this time. =)


December 22

Dinner with Frenchies & Japs

There was a Frenchies dinner at Crazy Roll a few weeks back but Joven and I weren't able to join them. That was the time Joven got sick. It was great of them to fix their schedules and have dinner with us again.

Dinner this time was at Burgoo in MOA. Coffee was at Starbucks. Jera brought along her friend from Japan. It was nice how they teach her bad words. Haha!


December 24

Noche Buena

My sisters from Pasig trooped to our place for our annual Noche Buena. Mommie was busy in the kitchen all day. I took the liberty of baking a chocolate cake (which didn't stay long in the fridge. naks!) and fixing the chocolate for the fondue.

My 5-year-old nephew, Jef was soo excited in opening his gifts. He was shrieking and laughing while he was tearing off the gift wrappers. He got his ultimate dream this Christmas: WWE action figures.

I got three bags from my two sisters and mom this Christmas. I wonder why. =P I also got a shirt from Jef. A Coelho and a Micheal V DVD from Joven. Hihi! Aliw! Joven and I got Chritsmas money from my dad which will turn into a love seat one of these days. Thanks thanks everyone!


December 25

Christmas Day!

We woke up mid-morning and were immediately swamped by inaanaks and neighborhood children. After our ninang duties, we went to mass at Lourdes church.

We were expected at Tita Nene's place by lunch time. We asked Jef if he'd come with us, surprisingly he said yes. I guess it was after enticing him with duguan (what he calls dinuguan) - his favorite viand.

When we got there, the elders were already eating lunch while the young girls were upstairs and the young boys were playing PS2. Jef immediately took his place with the boys but I urged him to eat duguan first. I guess the call of PS2 was louder because after three spoonfuls of food, he told me he was already full. He immediately made his way to the group of boys as if he'd known them since he was born.

Of course we were asked the question again, "Wala pa ba?" Ahm, I told them we're trying to get there. Insert *sigh* here.


December 26

MMFF

With nothing better to do, Joven and I, together with my mom, decided to watch a movie. We were weighing our options (nothing much really), and ended up with Ligalig. It was supposed to be rated A by the cinema board, for Joven and I it was quite predictable. There were certain scenes that were unnecessary, some scenes produced a "duh!" from me, some effects were not really that good. Oh well.


December 27

The day was spent with Lalaine, Merc, Cheche, and Tantan. I won't spill the beans. I'm keeping my mouth shut since I signed a contract. =P

We ate lunch at Tokyo Cafe. Yeah, yeah. I recommended the place. I can't help it. If we were on the north side, I would've recommended Crazy Rolls. =P

ArtBag

Joven told me he has a surprise for me when he gets home. Apparently, Leslie (Fol's wife) dropped off our finished album to his office. Of course, with our own ArtBag. Woohoo! Thanks Fol and Leslie!


Whew! That was a busy December indeed. We still have an overnight thingy tomorrow. Kwentos on that on our next blog entry.

BTW, I'm a winner again! I just got it from the mail. Apparently, I'm one of the five lucky poll voters who won gift certificates from Sanctuario Spa. Many thanks to Manila Bulletin's About Weddings and of course to Benz because it was her who e-mailed us about the poll. I've yet to get it though. =P

Olio

Auction Winners!

I joined the annual auction at w@w with the hopes of getting something for Joven. Good thing, Impromptu's sponsoring P1500 worth of M-Pass (movie tickets at Market! Market!, Gateway, GB3 or Glorietta 4). Nice! I bid for it since the beginning. I was surprised when I won! It seems the w@wies were not as aggressive as last year. Hehe!

We picked it up at John & Benz's place together with the desktop calendars they gave us. Yey! It was quite an adventure since Joven and I are not very familiar with the area. At least we still ended up in one piece. =)

Another cool thing, the movie tickets were worth P1600! =D

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Wedding Fever!

Our good friends, Cri-c and Manuel, were married last Saturday. Whoopee!

I was one of the secondary sponsors and was supposed to light their path but ended up binding them together instead. The ceremony was in St. Pancratius Chapel in Paco Park and reception was in Teatrillo in Intramuros.

Iyay, Cri-c's sister prepared an AVP for the couple and asked us to submit a photo and message to the couple. Here's our message to the newlyweds:

"Manuel and Cri-c has always been one of our favorite couples. We've seen their love blossom and mature as the years passed. We know that they would be able to surpass any challenge God will throw their way and emerge from that stronger and better. We wish you good health and happiness always. We love you!

Welcome to married life!"

More pics here.

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In Sickness and In Health

Before going to the wedding, Joven was telling me that he's not feeling right. He said that something in his throat hurts (from drinking too much chocolate - we guessed). He also says he feels like he's coming down with something.

During the night, it seemed that he's not really feeling well. He didn't eat as much as he used to. Tsk! Tsk! I told him to take paracetamol. Before going to sleep, I took his temp - 38.7C. =( During the night, his fever worsened. He was covered with two blankets but he says he's still cold. Not wanting to panic (but panicking already!), I took two small towels, water and alcohol. I put a wet towel in his forehead and used to other one to cool down his extremities. I was watching him sleep and praying the whole time. His face with a pained expression, his arms crossed in front of him and his legs kicking once in a while. Finally, he started to sweat. The fever went down significantly. Thank God! Whew!

We went to the emergency room of the Chinese General Hospital yesterday morning. The doctor told us that his tonsil was swollen - the infection is causing the fever. He was given meds for the next 7 days. This morning, the fever stopped. Sana tuloy tuloy na.

Risky!

Dionne always jokes that if we'd met 5 or 6 years ago, we probably would not have ended up together. Here's why (daw):


I think not! =P

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Last Saturday, November 11, Dionne and I went to Gateway Mall to spend the Rustan's gift certificates that were given to us on our wedding by my Nanay's officemates. Items here are somewhat expensive for my taste... We once saw a nice box. It costs around 6k. I would not pay 6k for a box! I would rather buy a nice pair of rubber shoes. Hehe.

Dionne wanted to get a pair of Crocs for us. I hesitated. They're even more expensive than Havs! They do look comfortable though... Something for Christmas? Could be.

We continued looking around until we found ourselves in the toys section. Dionne mentioned that she liked Risk so we looked for the board games there. I remember playing this with Benj, Cors, Ryan and Richie, and enjoying the friendly (aka competitive, hehe) atmosphere.

That's why when we saw this:
We bought it!

Now, who wants to play?

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For a long time now, we have been craving for Bellini's. Friends have been saying that the food there was great and reasonably priced too! From Gateway, we made our way to that famous resto.



We were not disappointed. Sarap!

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The following day, November 12, we met Cri-c and the rest of her entourage at the LRT-2 office at Recto. Judgment day! Aka, fitting day. Hehe.


No problem! Still sexy... ;)

Soooo happy!

I was bloghopping last night when I saw this!!!!

WOW!!!! Ang ganda!!! Mamatay matay ako. Pramis!!!

I was crossing my fingers that Fol will give it to us but I was thinking that maybe he'll use it as a sample for bridal fairs or something. Waaah! I just lamely commented in his blog entry.

When I arrived at work this morning , first thing I did was check his reply.

He's giving it to us!

Weeeeeee! Soooo happy! =D

Halo-Halloween!

Last Friday, Joven and I together with Bon, Dhang, Irish, OJ, Jera, Allan, Malou plus Dave (Dulce came late) went to see Little Miss Sofia Roxanne for the first time. =)

She's sooo cute! Jon's mini-me according to most of us (for the time being according to the dad). When we saw her first photos we thought that she's a big baby. But since she's a premie, she's really small in actual size. Kakatuwa. =)

We were, of course, teased to make our own. =P

While waiting for dinner, we were in our especially hyper mood and were horsing around. Hehe!

Yax and Jon served great food for the guests. Sarap!

Since most of us live far from Yax and Jon's place, we had to leave early. But not without a photo-op with Sofia. =)

More pics here.

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A few weeks ago, Fol emailed us the album lay-out for our approval. To our surprise and excitement, he e-mailed us last friday that the album's done and ready for pick-up!

Saturday mid-afternoon, we headed to Fol's place to pick it up. We loved it! It was beautiful!

We dropped by my sister's place to show it off. They loved it too. =)

Here's the album layout. =)

Unfortunately, none of us noticed that in the album spine it says "Jove and Dionne." Fol said he's very sorry and to return it to them immediately. Haay. I have to put off showing it to my other friends. Excited pa naman ako. Hehe!

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We haven't met up with the frenchies for the longest time. Or at least that's how we all feel. Hehe!

That's why last Saturday night, we (Joven and I, Christophe, Jera, Dax) trooped to Michelle's condo to watch scary movies, chat with Lu, kwentuhan, and eat ourselves to death. It was our halloween party, so to speak.

We stressed ourselves screaming, eating too much, and laughing. =D

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Lastly, Happy Halloween everyone!

Wedding Pictures

At last! It took us almost a month to sift through tons and tons of pictures. Enjoy!

click on the pic for the abums

Note: If you want high resolution soft copies of any of the photo (or other photos that we might have =P), please e-mail either one of us. =)

Suppliers' Ratings

The following ratings are based on our personal standards and on our personal experiences with these suppliers as their clients. It is best to take these ratings objectively and to not generalize because some errors are merely case-to-case basis.

Rating
1 – Poor
2 – Needs Improvement
3 – Satisfactory
4 – Very Satisfactory
5 – Outstanding
5++ – Exceeds Expectations


Church
Santisimo Rosario Parish
Address: UST Compound, España, Sampaloc, Manila
Contact Number: (632)731-3062
Contact Person: Sister Nida M. Sabangan
Inclusions:
Decorative sidelights of the church, Royal red carpet along aisles, Organist & Soloist (did not avail of these), Fresh flowers, ribbons and lace along aisle pews, Marriage rite souvenir booklets for couple (copied the contents and made personalized copies), Lunch and merienda during the marriage dialogue, Stipend for the officiating priest, Registration of marriage contract, Marriage certificate, Solemnized within the mass

Rating – 4

We had difficulty booking this initially because we started our preparations late February 2005. The church only accepts bookings 9 months before the event. But after we have booked, we didn’t have anything to worry anymore. Sister Nida’s very accommodating. The people from the parish office even call us to follow-up if we forgot about something. The church coordinator (Manny Doncillo) is quite mataray at first but he turned out kind din naman pala in the end.

We chose UST because it’s close to home (and our hearts), quite accessible, nice & simple altar, lotsa parking area, and lotsa places to shoot for pictorial. Other than the fact that for an aircon church, it was relatively cheap. The thing is, they opened the aircon only 15minutes before the event. They promised us they’ll open it as soon as the people are there already. The people were there 45 minutes before. Joven and I were sweating like crazy! Well, maybe because of tension, stress, etc. as well. But, at 3pm on a hot day, the aircon failed to deliver. But towards the end, the church was getting colder (tension release perhaps? Hehe.). Then there’s the sound system, which was a bit muffled. Good thing my ear is still okay. =P The church pews according to my dad lacks padding too. =D

They’re quite strict with a number of regulations as well. No lyrics for bridal march (at least, I can still choose a love song), latecomers will have reduced pictorials toward the end of the mass (which I agree with), and they have a list (they specify what you’ll offer!) of items to offer (which I’m not very keen of). But there are plusses as well, there’s no need to shell out money just so the photogs/videogs can shoot at the loft, petal dropping from the loft is okay, closing of doors is okay, there’s a big space where the ento can position themselves before the march.

In the end, UST is still a good choice for me.


Reception Venue
Kaisa Heritage Center
Address: Anda cor. Cabildo Sts., Intramuros, Manila
Contact Number: (632)527-6083; (632)527-6086
Contact Person: Ms. Vivian
Inclusions: Reception hall, Electricity, 20 parking slots

Rating – 4

We were originally booked at Bayview Park Hotel but they gave us a tough time with the ballroom layout, corkage fees, follow-ups, etc. They want things their way - sila masusunod hindi kami. Joven and I talked and decided to look for another venue. When we told Bayview that we’re not pushing through the wedding there, they told us that we cannot refund the P10k we paid them, I told them it’s okay since it was in the contract. I told them that we’ll have an engagement party there instead. The AE, Miles, told us that it was not transferable daw. I told them that it wasn’t being transferred but will be used to a different function. Suddenly, she said that she’ll have to talk to her manager pa daw. Boosit! With everything going on with the preps, I forgot all about it. Until my fiery sister & MOH talked to them... We were finally able to use the booking for my parents Ruby Anniversary. =)

Going back to Kaisa… Joven and I wanted RMC Hall sana since it’s near Manila Diamond. But somebody booked it ahead of us. =( Intramuros is the nearest place for us to look for venues. We were specific with enclosed venues since June is an unpredictable month. We looked into Teatrillo and Casa Blanca. Both didn’t feel right for us. (No offense to those booked at Teatrillo & Casa Blanca ah.) We were eyeing Villa Immaculada but unfortunately it was also booked on our date. Kaisa Heritage Center was recommended to us by Rowena, AE of Tamayo’s. We went for an ocular and liked it immediately. We liked the fact that it has parking space below and they don’t require additional fee for the caterer. They also have two staircases where the bride and groom can come down simultaneously… drama!

On the day, I heard Gladys of Impromptu talking to Ms. Vivian of Kaisa. Apparently, Ms. Vivian was asking for an additional charge for the freezer of Fiorgelato. When we booked them, I specifically asked her if there were additional charges for the freezer. She told me that there was none. Gladys took care of it and there was no additional charge for the freezer.

It appeared to be a bit cramped on the day (other than the two presidential tables, we had a gazebo and 22 tables), I guess it would be best to just stick to just 200 guests. We were informed that 250 guests can fit in the hall yun pala it would be 250 guests without a dance floor. =P Sayang nga since at least two tables were empty (bad guests, nag-RSVP tapos di dumating), we could have removed the tables para maluwag. Anyhow, I’m still very much satisfied with Kaisa.


Caterer
Robert Camba Catering Services
Address: #12 Resthaven St., Baler, Quezon CityContact Number: (632)371-1098; (632)372-9755; (63919)-2243182
Website: www.robertcamba.com
Contact Person: Ms. Connie
Inclusions:
Chairs and tables (full length satin chair cover w/ very elegant organza ribbon, Floor length table cloth with colored toppings, Complete catering equipment, Buffet table and w/decorative & buffet décor, Presidential table, 2 tiffany chairs for couples, Gift table and cake table, Cage and dove (did not avail of these), Champagne for toast, Uniformed waiters, Motif color for cloth and ribbon, White color napkin, Carpet, Gazebo with flowers, Pedestal for couples back draft, Torch parade (did not avail of this), Ordinary flower arrangement, Emcee for 150 – 200 heads (did not avail of this), Public address sound system, Guest book and signature frame, Bubble Machine at the entrance, 12 pcs. live butterfly, Free food tasting for 2 person, Purified water and ice for drinks, Swan Ice carving for 150 – 200 head, All tiffany chairs (first come first serve) (was able to get this).

Rating – 4

We got Robert Camba from W@W. We were looking for caterers and were considering Tamayo’s and Swan but Robert Camba won us over because of the food and tiffany chairs. And of course their prices are relatively cheap. =)

The food was delish! People were raving about it even after the wedding. The set-up was beautiful. Really nice! The tiffany chairs added glam. Ms. Connie was easy to talk to. She was straightforward and really nice to us. She gave us a lot of freebies and discounts. =)

Tip: Ms. Connie’s always busy. Make sure you ask her to write down everything you talk about. (Actually, she initiates this and she even tells you to remind her)

Ms. Connie told us that there waiters will be a dozen of waiters present during the reception. But to our surprise, they were definitely more than a dozen, more like 20. The service was great! They were fast. If you request for water, water is there within seconds. The principal sponsors were also pampered according to one of our titas.

At the end of the reception, we asked the waiters to wrap the leftovers. We were told that they don’t have any plastics for it. I was told by the captain waiter that they really do not bring plastics with them so as to avoid waiters from taking food home (a detail Ms. Connie should have told me). I asked him to kindly buy plastics for the food and gave him P100. Later on, I learned from the petty cash breakdown from Impromptu that they gave him P40 for the plastics pala. Haay. Joven also saw one of the waiters hid a tray of untouched fettuccine. Haay ulit. Also at the end of the reception, the waiters were lining up for the photo magnet souvenirs din. But that last detail was okay. There were plenty of leftover souvenirs anyway. =)

I would still recommend Robert Camba. Just be wary of the food incident plus bring plastics. Hehe.


Invitation
Unifair Printing
Address: 874 Alvarado St. Binondo, Manila
Contact Number: (632)242-4701; (632)242-4703
Email Address: unifairprinting@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Erwin Tiu and Shirley
Inclusions: Formal invite, Entourage inserts, Reception card, Envelope, Jacket, Missalette cover and binding, Thank you card printing

Rating – 2

HEADACHE. I’m really disappointed with them. We got Unifair from the reviews at W@W and because they were recommended by Marita of Hearts and Bells.

When we inquired, we were able to talk to Erwin Tiu (owner) and he was very accommodating. He was easy to talk to. Tipong no-nonsense. He gave us good quotes on the design we wanted. Relatively cheap. He also gave us tips on how we can further stretch our budget and get the same results. Cool!

We gave them the proofs for the invites March 4 with the agreement that they will complete everything by end of April. Erwin told me to call them before we get the invites. Come last week of April, I got missed calls from someone. I was in training and wasn’t able to answer my phone. They got to Joven pala. They told Joven that the invites were not yet ready. Apparently, they were having problems with their printers. They informed us that the invites will be available a week later.

After a week, we contacted them to verify if the invites will be available in the morning or in the afternoon. They’ll get back to us daw. After a few minutes, Shirley called Joven to say that they won't be able to complete the invites that Saturday and that it's going to be either Monday or Tuesday. By this time, I was already fuming mad. Why the heck did they wait for the last week of April to run our invites?!

May 9, Tuesday afternoon. That’s when we finally got our invites. As opposed to April 30, Sunday morning, what we agreed upon.

The final output was okay though. Simple and elegant. How we wanted it. The font in the entourage card was unreadable (the roles of the entourage). It’s difficult to read because it’s embossed, different from the proof given to us (that one was readable). Learning point for us.

Nevertheless, it took them two freaking months to do our invites! Mura nga, palpak naman.


Cake
Hearts and Bells
Address: 928 Alvarado St., Binondo, Manila
Contact Number: (632) 244-0255, (63917) 537-9388
Email Address: heartsnbells@yahoo.com
Website: www.heartsnbells.com
Contact Person: Mrs. Marita Laddaran
Inclusions:
3-layered wedding cake, All edible, 24 small cakes with ribbons and tags (souvenirs for entourage), 1 polymer cake topper, Free foot spa at Holiday Spa

Rating – 5

We got Hearts and Bells in the Wedding Expo last September. We were torn between Hearts and Bells and Sugarbox. Marita won us over. She gave us good value for our money. Plus her cakes were delish. Moist and not so sweet. We got chocolate, carrot and apple walnut. My dad who’s a great cook liked it too.

I loved what she did with the cake! We found a cake design in the internet and asked her to do a sketch with our motif colors. She’s always prompt in replying. If she’s cannot reply immediately, her assistant, Maricel, was always there. The final output’s really nice! The mini cakes look great too.

She also gave us a Mini Me topper at a good rate. She was introducing this topper to her clients and gave us an introductory price. But, Joven and I cannot accept that the topper look like us. =P

BTW, the topper almost broke in half. Thanks to the one who packed the cake. =(


Dessert
Fiorgelato
Address: 1263 Gen. Luna St., Ermita, Manila
Contact Number: (632) 524-0184, (63920) 910-9480
Website: www.fiorgelato.com
Contact Person: Mr. Omar Tigno
Inclusions:
Ice cream cart with two attendants, 6 ice cream flavors (1 gallon each): Pistachio, Bubble Gum, Raspberry Cheesecake, Choco Nut Fudge, Vanilla, Mango Sherbet, Cups and cones, Platter for couple.

Rating – 5++

We got Fiorgelato from the September Wedding Expo also. We wanted a chocolate fountain but it was too heavy on our pockets. We were about to leave the Expo when we chanced upon the booth of Fiorgelato. We got a pricelist and found out that it’s affordable! Yey! We booked them immediately.

Fiorgelato was easy to talk to, especially Omar. We went to their plant for food tasting and they showed us all the flavors they have. Yum!

The ice cream was a big hit! The guests fell in line the moment they got in. Almost all went back for seconds. My nephew went back 4 times! At the end of the day, no trace of ice cream can be found. =)

BTW, they were also the first ones to set up at Kaisa. =)


Photographer
Fol Rana Jr. Photography
Address: Block 8 Lot 8 Lili St. Lexington Garden Village, Pasig City
Contact Number: (632) 640-7946, (63917) 843-5118
Email Address: bigpicture@pacific.net.ph
Website: www.folrana.com
Contact Person: Mr. Fol Rana, Jr.
Inclusions:
14 x 11 ArtBook, 3 photographers, Digital pictures in a personalized CD in high resolution, Metal halide lighting system, Slideshow presentation during reception, 6 x 4 Artbook

Rating – 5++

Brilliant!

Fol’s the first supplier we booked. He was easy to talk to, warm and he really knows what he is doing. When we booked him March 2005, he was on a promo. Lucky us! Big savings talaga. =D

Due to our busy schedules, we weren’t able to neither meet nor talk to Fol before the big day. Everything was through text messages only. I was a bit apprehensive about that but he proved me wrong! The pictorial after the ceremony was great. He has fresh concepts that would leave you amazed. He took us to the basketball gym of UST and had pictorials with the varsity team of USTHS. The Arch of the Centuries shot was remarkable.

His team – Edong, Russ and Grumpy and are also great to work with. Nakakatuwa ang rapport nila with Threelogy.

Tip: Always consider this. Make sure that your suppliers have good rapport or the very least know each other.

We had a lot of plusses from Fol. He brought along his new lighting system and made great shots. He also did an onsite AVP (Moving Pictures) for free!

I have yet to see the ArtBook… but so far, I only have good words for Fol and his team.


Prenup Photographer
Fotogra by Mimi and Karl
Contact Numbers: (63917) 624-6464 (Mimi), (63917) 897- 3327 (Karl)
Email Address: karmina@fotogra.ph, karl@fotogra.ph
Website: www.fotogra.ph
Contact Person: Ms, Mimi Abesamis & Mr. Karl de Leon
Inclusions:
2 digital photographers, minimum of 350 shots, on-location pictorial, high-resolution proofs in CD, Guestbook

Rating – 5++

We booked Mimi through W@W. I was looking for a prenup photographer who does guestbooks. Aggie (ni Edil) just finished her prenup pictures and I was so impressed. Who would have thought that those were taken at UP Diliman. Galing! I asked Aggie if Mimi does guestbooks. It just so happened that she just recently launched it. Yay! I emailed Mimi about her rates and it was reasonable. We booked them immediately. Later, Mimi would kid us for booking too early. We booked them June 2005. Haha!

We had our prenups at LRT2. Originally, we wanted to do it in a bookstore. We were thinking of having booklovers as our wedding theme back then. But we scrapped the theme idea because it was giving me a headache already. That’s when the LRT2 idea came up. Joven and I take the LRT to work everyday. But the LRT doesn’t look good anymore. =D We learned of the LRT2 route when we went to Tet Hagape’s shop in Pasig. Incidentally, I have a friend working there (Hi Cri-c!). I asked her how to go about it. In short, we were able to get a permit signed by a lot of people. =)

I told Mimi (through chat) about the idea. She liked it. =) We had the shoot at stations Araneta Center-Cubao, Katipunan, Betty Go-Belmonte and Santolan. It took us more than 3 hours for the shoot. Tiring! But Mimi & Karl were really game.

At the end, the shots were beautiful! Astounding! Gagaling! We got nice reviews from everyone. =) The guestbook looks great too! Ayaw ko na sanang pasulatan eh. Hehe!


Videographer
Threelogy Digital Video
Address: 39 Maginhawa St. Teachers Village, Diliman, Quezon City
Contact Number: (632) 434-4428 (63917) 539-6148 (Jon), (63920) 950-6558 (Bong), (63916) 719-9406 (CJ)
Email Address: inquiry@threelogy.com
Website: www.threelogy.com
Contact Person: Mr. Jon, Mr. Bong, Mr. CJ
Inclusions:
3 3CCD cameras, 2 professional video lights (boling metal halide & unomat color corrected lights), Audio captured thru Audio Technica Wireless System, 2 copies of the final video in DVD format, raw footages in DVD; Onsite AVP and Photo AVP

Rating – 5++

We learned about Threelogy from W@W. But, when we also asked Fol to name videographers that he thinks are good, Threelogy’s name came up. We did not hesitate. We gave them a call and asked to meet them. We booked them upon meeting them. Not only that they’re easy to talk to, straightforward and nice, but, we also felt the passion they have for what they do. They’re genuine people. Even during our preprod meeting nakakatuwa kausap.

At the time we booked them they’re not yet offering their onsite AVPs (yup, that’s how long we’ve been clients). I asked Jon for a quote and they gave us a really good one. Nice Christmas gift for us. (Thank you talaga guys!)

During the day, I really enjoyed their company. They made me feel at ease, making jokes and having light conversations. Nakakaaliw.

When we (including the guests) viewed the photo and onsite AVP, can’t help but elicit reactions (laughter, oohs and aahs) from the guests. Some even break into applause. Galing eh. We were really impressed with their output.

Like what I said with Fol, I have yet to see the final output, but I only have good words for Bong, Jon, CJ and Omeng.


Band and Sound System
The Sentimental Groove (All in One Music Ensemble)
Address: 362 Dansalan St. Brgy. Malamig, Mandaluyong City
Contact Number: (632) 533-3688, (63919) 890-7580 (Kate), (63919) 688-9515 (IG)
Email Address: tsg_prod@yahoo.com
Website: http://thesentimentalgroove.kasal.com
Contact Person: Ms. Kate Fermin, Mr. IG and Mr. Randy
Inclusions:
Flute, Keyboard, Digital Drums, Acoustic & Bass Guitar, Violin, 3 Singers

Rating – 5

We first heard Sentimental Groove from a former w@wie and officemate, Yax’s (ni Jon) wedding (Dec ’04). We were impressed. From the church to the reception, best I heard so far. When Joven and I started preparing for the wedding, they were already on our list. We considered no other band/choir. We went to their studio in Dansalan and heard them perform live. We booked them after the listening session. But even after booking them, I still received a text message inquiring if I already have a band. Weird. I just booked them and they don’t remember me na? But when I called them, they cleared it up already.

That was 2005, fast forward to 2006… I saw Kate in the March Wedding Expo and inquired about the production meeting. She gave me the number of IG. She said that he takes care of production meetings. I texted IG and he gave me a schedule. When we got to their office it was Randy who met us. From then on, for any update I call Randy. No problems.

Three days before the wedding, my dad told me that he wanted a father-daughter dance. He said that “Sunrise, Sunset” would be perfect. He was asking me if I can get a copy of the song. I told him that the band would sing it for us. I called TSG for the update. I wasn’t able to talk to Randy because he was out.

Come wedding day, the father-daughter dance was perfect. All the songs we requested were played. Everything we (with Randy) talked about was executed perfectly. Even a few days after the wedding some of the guests were asking for the number of the band. Everybody appreciated how good they were. =)


Bridal Hair and Make-up Artist
Ara Fernando
Contact Number: (63917) 847-1019
Email Address: ara_fernando@yahoo.com
Inclusions:
Bride + 3 pax, Groom. Flower Girl, Retouch

Rating – 5

This supplier I had problems picking the right one. I tried one HMUA but it didn’t work out for us. I looked different. I wanted a natural look. Ara promised that (and gave me that in the end).

I got Ara through W@W (Hi Malou!). With her caliber and her rates, she was definitely worth a try. We scheduled a trial with her and I was very happy with the outcome. Feeling bride na talaga. I even got a 10% discount because of my W@W tag. Ara has a bubbly personality which keeps the nervousness away. Naturally madaldal, I sometimes find her amusing. =)

She also did my hair and make-up during the prenups. Feeling maganda na naman ako. Some thought the shoot was for a print ad of some sort. Haha! =D

A few days before the wedding, Ara texted me that she will not be able to make it for the retouch during the church and reception. She told me that she’ll have her assistant attend to me. I was really disappointed since I expected her to be there. But since I cannot do anything (I was starting to let go of the preps already in order to relax) I relented.

Come wedding day, Ara and her team was the earliest to arrive. She did a great job. Everybody told me I’m beautiful. Even in pictures. Hehe! I’m glad of the outcome. Plus points were she was able to hide the dark bags and red eyes (because of no sleep!) and the make-up lasted long. Retouch was minimal. Downside, her assistant, Elaine, is not so amiable (may pagkasuplada) but in fairness, di naman nya ko sinupladahan… nang masyado. Medyo nasupladahan lang nya si Tet when they were putting on my veil. Tet was quiet naman about it.

But all in all, I’m happy with how Ara did my hair and make-up. I was beautiful (well, am still is. Haha!) on my wedding day and that’s important.


Entourage Hair and Make-up Artist
Annie Mendoza and team
Contact Number: (63921) 247-4637
Email Address: eyniemendoza@yahoo.com
Inclusions:
Entourage hair and make-up for 5

Rating – 4

Annie’s my sister’s best friend. I had difficulty looking for an Entourage HMUA. When my sister told me that she recently graduated in Franck Provost, I asked Annie if she’s going pro already. She said that she’s willing to test the waters. She gave us a very good quote and my entourage agreed naman (they paid for their own make-up eh).

The final output looks good. I love the hairstyles! Annie and her team finished in the nick of time. Since they’re relatively new, I don’t think they were able to calculate the time they need to do the intricate hairstyles and make-up.

Tip: Give them more time especially for intricate hairstyles. I think they have a lot of potential.


Bridal Gown & Entourage Gowns
Teresa Hagape Fashion Shop
Address: 105 Rome St., Green Park Village, Manggahan, Pasig City
Contact Number: (632) 645-0076, (63917) 832-5285
Email Address: tet_hagape@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Ms. Tet Hagape
Inclusions:
Bridal Gown, 1 MOH, 3 BMs, 1 Jr. BM, 3 SS, 1 FG, 2 Mothers, 1 Sister

Rating – 5

I got Tet through W@W. She lived far from us but because of good rapport and because I’m happy with the designs she sketched for me, we booked her. Tet was easy to talk to, she listens to what I like, and she consults. There are incidents that she becomes forgetful. There were times that she would ask me to change a schedule we already calendared.

Tip: Remind her. Write down what you have talked about so that you won’t forget yourself. Text her to remind her if you have to. Be tolerant of small glitches in the schedules. Text her beforehand to avoid these glitches.

The entourage gowns were delivered the night before the big day. She brought everything in the hotel, including mine. I loved my gown. It’s me. Simple yet sexy. Naks! Haha! Exactly what I wanted.

The entourage gowns look great especially in the pictures. Some of my entourage complained of my color choice (Tet recommended it). Maarte lang sila, it actually looked good on them in the end.

All in all, I’d still recommend Tet. She did a good job. =)


Entourage Florist
Interplay Flowers and Events Specialists
Address: 14 Aurora Drive St., Vergonville Subd., Las Piñas City
Contact Number: (632) 871-7260, (63917) 892-5252
Email Address: interplaycreative@gmail.com
Website: www.interplaycreative.com
Contact Person: Ms. Lala Baldelovar
Inclusions:
Bridal bouquet, 1 MOH, 3 BMs, 1 Jr. BM, 3 SS, 1 FG, 3 PS, 2 Mothers, 16 Boutonnière, 2 Offertory baskets

Rating – 5

I got Interplay through W@W. We booked her during the September Wedding Expo and got a big discount. Lala’s nice and very approachable. I was in luck because she showed me a bouquet of calla lilies (exactly what I wanted) in display during the Expo. Nice! We emailed each other from then on. I told her what I wanted and she put everything in the contract. We finalized everything last March Wedding Expo. After that, we just texted each other.

Come wedding day her call time was 10AM but she did not arrive on time. I don’t exactly remember but I think she arrived sometime past 11. I did not let it bother me because the bouquet arrived just in time for the pictorial. The flowers were beautiful! I loved them! I loved my bouquet! It’s so pretty!


Wedding Rings
Goldenhills Jewelry, Incorporated
Address: 2/F The Jewelry Center, Greenhills Shopping Center, Greenhills, San Juan City
Contact Number: (632) 726-5189, (63916) 391-8695
Email Address: golden_hills88@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Ms. Connie Atienza
Inclusions:
Lifetime cleaning, free arrhae

Rating – 5++

We booked Goldenhills in the September Wedding Expo. I heard reviews about them at W@W also. We initially considered Matus but Goldenhills gave us a better quote. They were easy to talk to. We told them that we’ll get the rings on January. They told us to call first before we pick them up.

I was so surprised that a month later they texted me that the rings are ready for pick-up anytime. Ang bilis! When I called them and told them that it might be some mistake, they told me that it was not. They also told me that they can safe keep the rings until January.

The rings were beautiful. We love wearing them! Simple and elegant. =)


Arrhae
Unity Coins by WeddingsAtWork
Contact Number: (632) 725-4827, (63917) 811-1026 (John), (63917) 850-1026 (Benz)
Email Address: mail@weddingsatwork.com
Contact Person: Ms. Benz Co-Rana, Mr. John Rana
Inclusions:
13 gold-plated coins, white leatherette keepsake box with coin slots

Rating – 5++

This was our first purchase. I saw the idea from Yax (ni Jon) during her wedding. When I saw the unity coins up close, I fell in love with it. My family members complimented it for being unique and beautiful. The leatherette keepsake box is very nice. No problem with storage. Great find! =)


OTD Coordinator
Impromptu Events
Contact Number: (632) 645-5248, (63917) 837-6647 (Jing), (63927) 796-3410 (Lai), (63920) 950-4640 (Gladys)
Email Address: impromptu_events@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Ms. Gladys Leonidas, Ms. Jing del Rosario, Ms. Alaiza Alday, Ms. Michelline
Inclusions:
Schedules & appointments, RSVP services, Meet with reception host re the reception program, Ensure that all suppliers meet their deadlines & service agreements, Coordinate with all the event participants, Arrange & carry out the sequence of the wedding, Account all gifts for the couple, Schedule meals of the different suppliers, Turn-over the client’s payment to the supplier

Rating – 5++

I heard of Impromptu from W@W. I did an extensive research on coordinators because a lot of them are fly-by-night these days. I made worksheets on the quotes given to me, printed feedbacks by w@wies and compared them one by one. I ended up with Impromptu and I’m glad I did.

When I first met them, I immediately liked them. The rapport was good. I also learned that they were former officemates with the Threelogy guys which is also a plus point for us.

Throughout the preps, I met with them only twice, the initial meeting and a few weeks before the wedding. Di naman kasi ako alagain. Hehe! They mean business whenever we meet them but there’s always the chikahan part which also lightens the mood.

On the day, they were on time. They were very reliable. I didn’t have to tell them anything. They know what they’re doing. They kept problems away from me which I really appreciated. They made my day stress-free (which is suuuper important!).


Souvenirs
Konsepto (Photo Magnet for Guests)
Address: 157 Tandang Sora Ave., Quezon CityContact Number: (632) 453-3417, (63917) 327-8398Email Address: konsepto@gmail.com
Contact Person: Ms. Meme
Inclusions: 200 photo magnets, photo magnet design, onsite printing

Rating – 5

I saw Konsepto’s work at the W@W Christmas party. We loved the photo magnet idea. We wanted souvenirs that the guests will not throw away. When we saw the magnets, it was perfect! Who would dare throw his/her picture away? Plus they’ll always have it in display, right? When Benz emailed the group of the promo, Joven and I did not hesitate and booked them immediately.

The guests were so happy with their magnets and gamely posed for shots. There were a lot of magnets left when the reception ended so the last few guests enjoyed their multiple magnets. =D

Meme was also kind enough to provide us an easel even if I gave her a short notice for it. I would have given them a 5++ but there were times that Meme is not prompt in replying to emails or text messages.


Louis Maclean Wines (Chamdor Wines for Principal Sponsors)
Address: Suite 1907 Antel Global Corporate Center, Julia Vargas Ave., Ortigas Center, Pasig City
Contact Numbers: (632) 687-0701
Email Address: tere_danga@lmfe.com.ph
Contact Person: Ms. Cecille Estillero

Rating – 5++

We were eyeing Chamdor wines since the first Wedding Expo we attended. We finally bought ones last March Wedding Expo. The salesperson in the Expo was easy to talk to. They helped us load it in our vehicle pa kaya lang the manong obviously waited for a tip.

We used Chamdor for the toast and for the reception. We also gave bottles to our principal sponsors. So far we got nice feedbacks for it. They liked the idea that it was non-alcoholic and sugar-free. =)


Host/Emcee
Dulce Amor Fortunado
Contact Number: (63919) 862-6541
Email Address: dfortunado@yahoo.com

Ryan Cocjin

Rating - 5++

Dulce is an officemate and friend and Ryan is Joven's college barkada. Dulce's pro already. She used to anchor a radio program. She also hosted a number of events and w@wie weddings. Ryan also has his share of hosting and singing. =)

Dulce and Ryan were great! The reception program ran smoothly thanks to them. Dulce helped a lot in preparing the program since she's very experienced in hosting already. I liked the way they complimented each other. They were very receptive in the cueing of the coordinators. There was a part when they had to stall because the program was about to end and the onsite is about to be ready pa. Dulce thought of asking questions to the ones who got the bouquet and garter to lengthen the program a bit. Ayos! They even sang the kick off song for the dancing part of the program! Galing! They really made the reception program a blast! =)


LCD Projector Rental
Webdevices Corp.
Address: Upper Ground 20 Cityland Megaplaza Building, ADB Ave. cor. Garnet Rd., Ortigas Center, Pasig City
Contact Number: (632) 687-7003, (63917) 834-4803
Email Address: webdevicescorp@yahoo.com, velvetnd@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Ms. Velvet San Diego
Inclusions:
5-hour use of LCD projector, Projector screen, Technician

Rating – 5++

Velvet and I were already blogmates when she ventured into this business. Since Velvet was a former w@wie, I got a lot of tips from her about the wedding and not only on projectors. Velvet has always been a darling. She’s easy to talk to and never fails to give encouraging words. When we visited her shop near Robinsons Galleria, we ended up chatting about the details of the wedding and not really about projectors. She gave me a good package which was really affordable (as opposed to others who offer the same). Her technician even brought cables that were requested of Threelogy. =)


Hotel Preparations
Manila Diamond Hotel
Address: Roxas Boulevard cor. Dr. J. Quintos St., Manila, Philippines 1000
Contact Number: (632)528-3000 local 1144; (63917) 848-5548
Contact Person: Ms. Trina Panapanaan

Inclusions:
One executive suite for a 2-night stay and one executive suite for a 1-night stay, both with complimentary daily breakfast for 2, free use of hotel amenities

Rating – 5++

I initially wanted to make my hotel preps at Hyatt and was eyeing vouchers for it. When I chatted with Jane (ni Eugene) about the vouchers she was selling, she told me about Manila Diamond (Thanks girl!). She gave me her contact person (Trina) and told me about how she booked her preps there. She told me that Trina can make arrangements for me. I called Trina and scheduled an ocular.

She took us to adjoining executive suites on the bayside of the hotel. Sweet! The room was spacious with a receiving area before the bedroom and two bathrooms. The view is also great!

We booked them the following day. I would call Trina from time to time for updates. She was always accommodating. The other staffs are courteous too. Great thing, Trina gave us the 2005 rate. Yey!

BTW, Buffet breakfast was delish too! =)


Bridal Car
Streetline Bridal Cars & Motorcycle Escorts
Address: 1135 Attila 1 Kingsville Subd., Marcos Hi-Way, Antipolo City
Contact Number: (632) 645-1982
Email Address: street_line04@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Ms. Lolit
Inclusions: MB E220 bridal car, 2 MB100 vans

Rating – 4

This was the last supplier we booked. We got them last March Wedding Expo. We didn’t have any problems with coordination with them.

The bridal car and two vans arrived on time. All the vehicles have good working aircon and comfy seats. The drivers were courteous naman. But one van left almost half of the entourage. Before leaving the hotel, my dad told the last van driver to wait for the other entourage members and that they were on their way down (the other van left with Joven and the other ento members already). When I went to the bridal car with my parents, Lai of Impromtu with my nephew went to the van. The driver told her that the all the ento members left with the other van already. In short, naiwan yung iba. I don’t want to blame it on Lai since she was only responsible for me and she was told by the driver such.

I really don’t get what happened. But the rest of the entourage got to the church on time. That’s most important of all.

One more thing, when we booked them at the Wedding Expo, I was told that there was a free motorcycle escort. On the day, I didn’t see any. Not that there is a need for one. The bridal car has its own siren. But like what I said, I didn’t see any motorcycle escort there.


Photo Mosaic
Espesyal na Ngiti
Address: 11 Cagayan de Oro St. South City Homes, Biñan Laguna
Contact Number: (632)699-6084; (63915)420-5877
Email Address: info@espesyalnangiti.com
Website: http://www.espesyalnangiti.com/
Contact Person: Ms. Christine Palanca
Inclusions: Free classic frame with matting

Rating – 5++

I heard of Espesyal na Ngiti from W@W also (Hi Glo!). Christine and Jeff did a great job! They work fast and their output’s great! They’re easy to talk to and they consult you with the output. I really love what they did with the mosaic! The guests loved it too!

Highly recommended! Joven and I would want to get another project with them soon. =)


Groom’s Suit
Namel’s
Address: Dapitan St. near cor. Baco St. Sampaloc, Manila
Contact Number: (632)741-5112
Contact Person: Mrs. Nazaria dela Cruz
Inclusions: Joven’s coat, vest and pants, Daddy’s coat and pants, Ring bearer’s coat and pants

Rating – 5

We got Namel’s to do Joven’s suit because we’ve known them for a looong looong time. The owner is my godmother. She gave us a good rate (of course. Hehe!). They also work fast. The fit’s perfect. I think Joven looks really great in his suit (of course that’s a biased opinion. Haha!).


Groom’s Accessories
Shoes: Bass
Watch: Casio
Perfume: Bulgari Aqua
Tie: Tieline (Renato Casati)
Shirt: Arrow

Rating – 5++

The shoes fit perfect. No blisters. =)
The watch was part of the prize we got from PDI’s 2bu! =)
The perfume was a pasalubong from my Dad. Bango!
Tie from Tieline is relatively cheap. A lot of selections to choose from.
The shirt was a perfect fit. Gift from my Dad din.


Bride’s Accessories
Shoes: Janilyn
Hairpiece: SM Department Store - Manila
Earrings: Marcella
Bracelet: c/o Mom
Rosary: Heirloom from my lola

Rating – 5++

We bought the shoes at Marikina Shoe Expo. It was relatively cheap. Nice fit! My feet didn’t ache. =)
The hairpiece was on sale at SM. I wasn’t supposed to buy it but when I saw that it was on sale. Game! I love how it turned out in the end. =)
Tet told me that cascading earrings would be best for my gown. No necklace. I bought a rhinestone cascading earrings in Marcella. Cheap lang. =)
The bracelet is my something borrowed.
The rosary was my something old. It was my lola’s given to my dad who in turn gave it to me. =)


Male Entourage’s Accessories
Tie (Spongebob and Domenico): SM Department Store - San Lazaro, Manila, Megamall

Rating – 5++

We went to SM San Lazaro looking for entourage ties. We found the perfect color of ties but they do not have enough stocks. The manager was so kind to call other malls and inquire the availability of ties. He also facilitated the reservation of those ties. The following day, we went to SM Manila and SM Megamall to pick them up. =)


DIYs
Ring Box
Arrhae Box
Matchstick lighter
c/o my sister and MOH

Rating – 5++

I gave my sister a few days to do the boxes and the lighter. I also gave her very few materials lang but she did a great job! I especially love what she did with the matchstick lighters. =) Thanks Tita Dap!


Offertory Candles
Unity Candles
c/o my officemate, Ms. Ara Albiento (PM me for her number)

Rating – 5++

Ara’s one of the most creative beings I’ve known. She turned my bare candles into beautiful ones! Galing! She has a lot of talent in the arts – painting, flower arrangement, layouts, balloons, etc. Incidentally, she also does invitations (shameless plug. Hehe!).


All in all, I can say that the wedding was a success largely because of these suppliers. Many thanks to them. =)

Wedding Kwento

The wedding’s been over a week… whew! Now, the M-life begins. =D

I’m currently at home and swamped with a LOT of things to blog. So here goes…


June 9

Joven blogged about him leaving me and my parents at the hotel. He didn’t mention about us strolling along baywalk and finding a place to eat dinner. We, including my parents, ended up at Aristocrat. Hehe. It was a nice and quiet dinner. I was busy with a lot of text messages from well wishers (thanks guys!) but I was also weirdly emotional that night. We were having a light conversation when my dad started giving us advices on married life. I didn’t know the relevance of those tears that kept on falling from my eyes. Weird but I’ve never been so emotional before.

We figured that it would be better if my sisters also slept at the hotel so that they won’t have any hassles in coming over the following day. Tet, our couturier, also texted me that she’ll arrive a little over 8pm to deliver the dresses. So while we waited for them, I had a hot bubble bath.

Tet arrived with her mannequin, entourage dresses and my gown. I asked her to set it up near the bed. I couldn’t believe that it was the same dress I fitted when I was in her shop. I love the beadwork. It wasn’t as grand as the other bridal gowns I saw but for me it was perfect! I couldn’t help but look at it from all angles! Haha!

My sisters and 4-year-old-nephew arrived next. When my sisters got in, they immediately saw the dress and admired it. My nephew on the other hand was in the receiving room with his lolo. When he got in the bedroom, he started playing with whatever it is he can get his hands on. After a while, he started crying. He said that he wanted to go home and he doesn’t want to sleep in the hotel. We tried to pacify him by telling him that there were nice city lights outside that he can see from the window. As he was about to go to the window near the mannequin, he stepped back and eventually ran back to his mom. Apparently, he was scared of the headless mannequin wearing a white dress with a white veil! Hahaha! When I looked at it again, it was indeed scary! We resolved the matter by closing the bedroom and making him sleep in the receiving room. =D


June 10

The big day!

I wasn’t able to sleep! I don’t know if it was because of anxiety or it was because of my parents’ exchange of snores (Hihi!). I woke up and had a hot chocolate and a few slices of bread for breakfast.

At around 8am, the doorbell was ringing. I thought that it was just someone from the hotel but it turned out that it was the hairstylist. Nyaiks! I haven’t bathed yet. I checked my schedule, they were supposed to arrive at 9:30. It just so happened that she was early. After taking a bath, she proceeded to fix my hair. Soon after, Ara, my make-up artist, arrived with her assistant, Elaine. After 30 minutes of fixing my hair, she was done! That was quick. Ara began to prettify me. She was scolding me for not sleeping. She had to hide the dark bags under my eyes and put eye drops to get rid of red eyes. Nuninu. While Ara was working on me, the Impromptu girls (our coordinators) arrived. They began working immediately. Ara was already done with my make-up when the Threelogy boys (videographers) arrived. Fol and his team (photographers) arrived a bit late. But all of them worked immediately when they arrived.

I knew that there were some glitches but the Impromptu girls kept it away from me and fixed it among themselves. Whew! Interplay (florist) came late. Good thing the bouquet arrived just in time for the pictorials. I was getting more and more tensed that when they asked me to pose for pictures, I cannot easily smile. Good thing Threelogy, Fol and his team have good rapport. They kept on making me laugh. They really know their jobs well. They made things easier for me. I couldn’t help but laugh at their conversations. While doing the pictorial, Alaiza from Impromptu informed me that I have to get dressed. Tet was back and was ready to dress me up.

Fol and Threelogy left the bedroom while Tet zipped me up. Good thing the gown fit! Hehe. They came back in time for my accessories and veil.

I was told that Joven left for the church already. Segue: We have adjoining rooms but it’s a custom in the Philippines for the bride & groom not to see each other during the wedding day (only at the altar) and for the groom to arrive at the church first.

After getting dressed, I was ushered by the photographers to the 2nd floor of the hotel. We had another series of pictorials. Alaiza was bugging them to end it already since we will be late for church.

Together with my parents in the bridal car, we traveled with ease (thanks to the bridal car’s siren… yes… it was like a police car!) and arrived at our destination early. I was left alone in the bridal car with some guests asking to take my photo. I also learned that half of the entourage, including my two sisters, was still missing. The van left the hotel without them. Argh! Good thing they arrived just in time! Yey!

The church coordinator asked me to alight the bridal car. My heart was already pounding. I still couldn’t explain my emotions until now and I do not wish to justify them. =D The coordinator was right beside me. They fixed my veil, warned me not to step on so and so, and cued me when I should start walking. My parents walked ahead of me. The coordinators closed the door. My knees are getting weaker and I’m suddenly not sure if I can still walk. I heard the first few notes of “You Raised Me Up” and I felt like crying. I tried to breathe deep so as to avoid the tears.

As I stepped up the chapel stairs, the door swung open. I feel all eyes at me. I tried to see straight. I felt my dad’s hand on my elbow and my mom on my side. I cannot even look at them. I looked around. I saw some people wiping their tears. Then I heard my sister say “Smile, smile.” I tried to. I don’t even remember if I did smile. Next thing I know, I was beside Joven walking up the altar. I forgot to kiss my mom and dad! =(

The mass started and ended with us sweating! The church did not open the aircon long enough to cool the church. =( Anyway, the celebrator was Fr. Gutierrez. He was the one who conducted our canonical interview. At least he knows how to pronounce my name. Whew! He has problems pronouncing Joven’s though. Hehe.

In the middle of the ceremony, Joven and I would look at each other and whisper I love you’s. We would often hold hands and check on how the other is doing. Being beside Joven washed all the uneasiness away. I could smile easily; I begin to really understand what’s going on. =D

The mass ended with Fr. Gutierrez cueing us for the kiss. I remember some weddings I attended where the priest didn’t even bother to cue the couple to kiss, good thing he did. =) Joven took off my veil and gave me a soft kiss. He then hugged me tightly.

After the church pictorial, we were greeted with poppers, rose petals, hugs and kisses outside the church. We were whisked by the bridal car… to the university gym! Fol talked to the coach of the high school varsity basketball team for a pictorial with them. The pictorial was FUN! The boys were soo game and they love the camera! They kept on posing! The pictorial ended with the boys calling me Tita! Hehe!

Next stop for the pictorial was the Arch of the Centuries (it’s the most prominent icon of UST). I didn’t realize that the poses we’re doing would be as great as the photos Fol showed us after. =)

We arrived at the reception and headed to the second floor. The idea was to go down to the two staircases and meet in the middle. Arte! Haha! We waited for the coordinators’ cue and made our grand entrance. =)

After my sister’s thanksgiving prayer, we had our father-daughter/mother-son dance. I cried... again. I’m such a crybaby. =P After dancing with my father, time for our first dance. Joven and I rehearsed this dance three times. So the dance looked like it was rehearsed three times. =D

After the cake cutting ceremony (which I almost died choking.. kidding Brad!) came the best man’s toast. Benj gave a nice toast… describing Joven in his eyes, reminiscing their BenJoven days, and giving me his approval. (Thanks Benj!) =)

One of the things we did to liven up the reception was the Model-Kiss game. Married couples are to model a kiss that we would imitate. Funny! One kiss actually shocked me! =D

There were three AVPs shown during our wedding (di naman overload noh!). One was the Photo AVP from Threelogy, the moving pictures from Fol and the Onsite AVP by Threelogy again. Nice! Ang gagaling! Grabe! =)

Later, the unmarried couples were asked to participate in the quiz show we came up with. This is in lieu of the most dreaded bouquet and garter toss. =P After three questions, Benj and Beej won! No, it wasn’t rigged… THEY answered the questions! Hahaha!

Next were the speeches. Nanay (Joven’s mom) gave a short speech... thanking the guests for sharing the special day with us. My dad gave his heartfelt speech (almost cried again!). He cited a short story about me, how he thinks we’ll fare in this M-life, how to look back on that day we worked as a team, and how proud he was of me… of us. *sigh*

It was our turn to do one. I worked on this a day before and gave Joven a copy. He made the speech. Hehe! =D

It’s party time! Joven and I practiced a swing dance (three times again) and asked our hosts, Dulce and Ryan, to sing the kick-off song for us. Midway through our dance, nobody was joining us (I think they were busy watching us instead) I told Joven to get somebody to dance while I walked across the room and grabbed Christophe for a dance. =D

After the party, guests slowly came up to us to say goodbye, their comments about the wedding (which were all positive… Syempre! Haha!) and to have pictures with us. Fol and his team never left our side. They gamely took photos of all of the guests until none was left. =)

After the leftovers were packed, the photo magnet souvenirs were exhausted, the band, photographers, videographers, and coordinators left, we headed to the hotel. I was dead tired but extremely happy on how the BIG DAY turned out! =)


First Night

Of course I wouldn’t blog about this! =P

Videos Galore

I was teased by Threelogy on the number of AVPs they saw on our wedding. =D

I reasoned that it was only three and it really pays to book early. Hehe!

I was finally able to figure how to upload the videos in youtube (but in low resolution only) with the help of my husband. (Yihee! I still have to tease myself everytime I refer to Joven as my husband. Hehe!)

Enjoy!

Officially Mrs.

We just got back from bohol a few hours ago. =)

I have tons of pictures, kwentos and videos. I don't know where to start! I still have to figure out how to upload them. Nuninu.

The wedding was wonderful and more. We're overwhelmed with our guests' reactions. Until now we still get comments from relatives and friends on how beautiful the wedding was. Thanks thanks!

I heeded the advise of my friends to let go of any worries and enjoy the wedding. Which I really enjoyed a lot! =)

Six days after the wedding, I'm still sooo tired!

I still have to catch a few zzzz's.

For those who weren't able to see the onsite video of Threelogy. Here's a link to their blog. =)

And here are some (as in some pa lang ah) shots from Fol. =)

Kwentos and more pictures soon. =D

Photo Mosaic

Here's our mosaic from Espesyal na Ngiti. We have already provided a space for it in one of our bedroom walls. =)


See it "live" in our wedding. Hehe!

I remembered to post it because we got our guestbook from Mimi & Karl this afternoon. I saw our prenup pics again. Galing talaga! The guestbook, as expected, was great! Ayaw ko na ngang pasulatan eh. Hehe! Thanks Mimi and Karl! You're the best! =)

Pamamanhikan

Exactly a week before the wedding, we had the pamamanhikan. We wanted to have the pamamanhikan once Daddy arrives. But because we weren’t sure if Daddy will be arriving before the 27th, we postponed it to June 3.

Joven told me that 10 people will be arriving for the pamamanhikan, him included. He said that they’ll be bringing 3 dishes for dinner.

On the day of the pamamanhikan, my dad cooked his specialty, paella. My mom also made leche flan. My sisters arrived from Pasig and helped us prepare for the event.

A little over 6pm, they arrived. I was the one who opened the door and welcomed them. I was shocked! Almost all of the Larin clan was present! Not only that, all of them are carrying a dish or two. Whoa! Parang fiesta!

I even got a bouquet of roses & calla lilies! Yey!

After dinner and kwentuhan, Joven and I "toured" his titas to our room upstairs. =D Napasarap kami sa kwentuhan which made my dad wonder what we're up to. Hehe!

Thanks the Larin family for welcoming me and my family into yours. Thanks to my family too, for making my new family feel welcome. =)

Scenes from the pamamanhikan:

Updates Inc.

Tuesday, 23 May

On my last day at the office (before I went on leave), Ara, Dulce and I went to the newly opened (at that time) mall for dessert. I ended up with a bagful of bread from BreadTalk.

Mall of Asia is huge! I'm definitely coming back (with sneakers and a rested body... and Joven of course). =D

Wednesday, 24 May

The day was devoted to house cleaning. The construction's finally over! Woohoo! Here are the before and after pics. It's not much but we're glad it looks a lot better. =D

Bathroom, before and after

Bedroom, before and after (ala pa kaming entertainment system at sofa =D)

Before and After: With our new bed, fan and A/C! Yihii!

Before again

After again

It was a long wait, but it was worth it. =)

Segue: Last night I slept in our bedroom for the first time. I had the bed and the room all by myself. It felt kindda lonely (and scary! Haha!) but quite fun. =D

Thursday, 25 May

I took a looong leave not only because of the wedding preps, wedding, after the wedding but because of this...

My dad is here! Yipee! I can't get a better picture because of the excitement. Hehe!


Friday, 26 May

My dad, mom, sisters and nephew went to Namel's for Daddy and Jef's measurements. While Joven and I went to UST to proofread our marriage contract and distribute invites. We also went to the cleaners to pick-up Joven's suit. We then met with Andrew to get him a shirt for the wedding. We accompanied him to Gardini's for the coat rental.

During all the fuss, Andrew told me "Grabe, you're getting married na!" I told him I couldn't believe it as well. He knows every heartache I had... being one of my bestfriends. He gave me a quick hug. We both know nothing would change between us and that wherever life would lead us, we'll still be bestfriends. We still have a lot of Christmas eves to spend together. =D


Saturday, 27 May

Joven and I headed to Monasterio de Sta. Clara. After giving our offering and our petition, we went to the chapel and said a short prayer. Hoping for good weather on our wedding day. =)

After lunch, we went to the caterer to finalize the details and to make our final payment. Whew!


Sunday, 28 May

We headed to Tet's shop for the final fitting and to pick up the gowns. Unfortunately, out of the 11 female entourage, we only got 3 gowns. It's either they lost weight or they gained weight (mostly the latter). =D I'm also guilty of this, I gained weight... that's why my gown didn't fit me well. Hihi! I'm back to my no-rice-and-sugar-diet. =P

Incidentally, it's my parents 40th wedding anniversary! (Happy Anniversary Mommie & Daddy!)

We had a simple celebration with the Larin family at Bayview. (Remember the downpayment we gave for our supposed reception there? Hehe!) It took my feisty sister, Daphne, to help me arrange this.

Since Mommie & Daddy's reluctant to do the cake cutting and wine toasting thingy, we had some sort of a practice. It was hilarious!

But, it wasn't only us who had a taste of cake & wine. =D

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Before I forget, My uber creative friend, Ara, was kind enough to DIY our offertory and unity candles. Yey! (Notice the J & D initials in the unity candle, Galing!) Thanks Ara! Mwah!