Memoirs of a Bride

We've moved

2006-01-23T23:55:00.000+08:00

No not to a new house. Well its a month since the wedding so Memoirs of a Bride will no longer be updated anymore. It was fun blogging here though, all those ideas and thoughts about the wedding was documented here. But it is now time to move on...to a new blog that it. So visit me at my new blog

Icing on the Cake

Its not really done yet, I'm still using a template from blogger and I haven't put up my links yet but I'll be posting there from now on.

So drop by there if you have time and leave a message okei....

Jacq

Lots to do...

2006-01-07T21:13:00.001+08:00

So got back here in SG last Tuesday (Hi Vannie I saw you and Godwin at the airport!). Now comes all the to dos...
I have to...
Upload our wedding pics for our friends, relatives and wawies to see.
Prepare for our post wedding party on the 14th.
Start selecting pictures for our wedding album (which is not easy considering there are tons of pictures).
Fix (or least try) our things here at home.
Finish my supplier ratings (I already started doing this).
Start doing wedding kwento.

I'm also back to work, so I have less time to do all of the above.

About our wedding...
We had so much fun! It was a blast! Of course there were minor glitches, but over all it was a success. Unlike others who have hazy recollection of their wedding...I remembered mine vividly. I took the time to just enjoy every single moment of wedding. I remember how cold it was outside the church, I remembered my heart beating fast as the church doors slowly opened signalling my march. I remembered small details...memories I shall keep forever.
After one year of preparation, our wedding is over. But our journey through life has just begun...

Bong & Jacq Married At Last

2006-01-01T17:34:00.000+08:00

Days before the BIG DAY

2006-01-01T16:53:00.000+08:00

I'm trying to document all the things that happened before the BIG DAY. This is my attempt...

Dec. 15
Morning
Our flight to Manila. Our whole flight was extremely uncomfortable. I only had about five hours of sleep prior to our take off (last minute packing, making sure we didn't forget everything et al), I was hoping to catch some Zzzz during the flight...but behold we had a bunch of tattle tales behind us. There were three middle-aged women who were flying to Manila was tourists, they were freakingly noisy the entire duration of the flight. My gosh, if I was a rude person I would have done something nasty. I was amaze how they managed to talk during the entire time, yeah even while eating. Luckily I was too exhausted that I managed to sleep.

Afternoon
B's dad picked us up at the airport. We went to their house to drop of his luggage (I brought mine at my parent's house). Off we go to Merlene's shop to fit my gown and B's barong and pants. I was really excited at the same time nervous (what if my gown won't fit???). Luckily my gown did fit, they adjusted it pa nga on the waist area because it was a bit loose (oh di ba maluwag na ng konti, pumayat ba ko???). They also took my measurements for the tea length dresses I asked them to make for me. I hope to have this by Saturday since we'll attend Jeremy and Len's wedding on Sunday (I'm really looking forward to see Villa Escudero).

Dec. 16
We had a meeting with Ernest (our coordinator) at 6750 Starbucks. We discussed everything about the wedding...everything up to the tiniest details.

After that we went to Gino's house to get our wedding rings. It was exactly want we wanted (or should I say exactly how B wanted). My ring was a bit thicker than B's because mine had a stone in it so I need to get use to it.

Dec. 17
Pre cana seminar at St. James. We got there a bit early so we decided to have breakfast at Total (yeah the gasoline station).
When we got back the seminar just started. I think about nine other couples attended the seminar. Too bad I left my notepad in the car so I wasn't able to take down notes.
It was suppose to be a whole day seminar but the lector for the afternoon session couldn't make it so we were told not to come back. So off to ATC we go for some shopping and pampering (for me that is).

Dec. 18
Jeremy & Len's wedding at Villa Escudero!!!
The place was great...unfortunately my sister put our camera in her bag instead of mine the day before so we had no choice but buy a disposable camera just to have pictures. The place was beautiful, we'll definitely come back there someday.

Dec. 19

...to be continued

Luggage, gifts, check list and 10 days to go

2005-12-13T23:22:00.000+08:00

I'm sooo excited that we'll be flying to Manila this thursday na. We still have to work tomorrow though (nakakatamad na talaga as in). I started packing last Sunday and tonight I'm almost done.

I bought my wedding gift to B yesterday. I hope he likes it. As for his christmas gift, I wrapped it already (I bought it last Saturday and I don't want to risk him seeing it). We also bought gifts for some of our loved ones back home, we will finish shopping na lang in Manila.

Ernest gave me a draft of our appointments na rin. So far were free in the morning (I'll singit na lang shopping time here). Surprisingly we were more busy when we went home last May to prepare for the wedding. Now talagang finishing touches na lang. First stop from the airport, light lunch then straight to Merlene's shop to fit my gown (and B's barong and pants). I hope I can still fit in it (keeping my fingers crossed).

Gifts keep on coming...thanks to everyone. We haven't opened anything yet (though I'm very tempted...if only the gifts weren't wrapped with so much tape I could possibly have a glimpse). I better list down all these gifts so we could properly thank everyone (and not miss anybody).

Its our friend's wedding this Sunday, we will attend of course. I would be exciting to see Villa Escudero. We will stay there overnight. Fun!!!

We will attend another wedding on Tuesday!!!

Wow we're getting married next week!!!!I'm sooo excited!!!

Little Update - 12 Days to go

2005-12-11T10:18:00.000+08:00

I bought the jewellery that I'm going to use for the big day (@ Citigems) a few days ago. I bought something dainty and elegant looking, nothing too flashy or even something that sparkling so much it could blind someone. I was adviced not to wear a necklace as my gown is almost fully beaded on top, but because the set I bought is dainty I think I can get away with wearing it...

B finished our avp last night. Watching it played is like watching my life flashback before my eyes. And B's baby/childhood pics...adorable. Well he has more baby pictures than me (most of my baby pics was destroyed when I was in highschool, lets just say that water in pictures equals destruction). Still I'm glad I still have a few left.

Our florist informed our coordinator that peonies this month doesn't look nice. She wouldn't want to use it for my bouquet because it would ruin my look daw. I felt sad as I sooo love this flowers. I was looking forward to holding it on my way to the altar (and pose for pictures too).

Beautiful isn't?Too bad I can't have a bouquet like this now

I just love peonies

Now I have to look for an alternative to peonies. The problem is nothing appeals to me at the moment. I better find another flower soon....

13 Days To go

2005-12-10T19:45:00.000+08:00

How time flies talaga. Its only 13 days before the wedding. We'll be flying to Manila in 4 days. We still have the pre cana seminar to attend to...I still need to fit my gown(s)...have meetings with Ernest and attend to other minor details na lang. So yeah we're prepared for the wedding na. Its been fun preparing for the big day. Searching for that supplier, looking at bridal magazines (heck I have one big container of bridal magazine if only i can bring it all to Manila), countless emails, internet search and phone conversations. At times it was tiring, stressful and frustrating...but mostly it was fun. After a year of preparation I'm now only counting days. I feel really excited.

Paper Scrappy Me

2005-12-06T01:08:00.000+08:00

Here's the first LO I made as a paper scrapper (yes paper not digital). I enjoy doing this sooo much. Right now I'm all about brads, snaps, eyelets, cardstocks, patterned papers and dye inks!Oh and punches too!

This is a scraplift from Cathy Zielski's Clean and Simple book (Thanks to Gina for letting me borrow her book as I wait for mine to be delivered)

This is the second LO I made. As I dont have much embellishments yet this is the best I can do with the stuff I have

Party, Gift and More

2005-12-06T00:08:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday Jaimie!How young are you?

With food this yummy, the word "diet" seem to slip my mind. Did I mention our friends cook REALLY well?

Our first wedding gift from Rhudee, Jaimie & Zaki

Here's what they wrote on the tag...awww how sweet, thanks for everything Jaims

I won't open this til after the wedding...I guess I should be expecting more to come?Hehehe

Okay so its only 18 days to go til the wedding...I'm having a hard time sleeping (and I sleep late to begin with). I guess I'm just thinking/imagining how the day itself will turn out. More than the worries and the things we still need to do, I feel happy... when I look at B's face...I find my peace. Heck even if there will be glitches on the wedding (which is inevitable I think), I know B would be beside me to hold my hand and say that everything will be alright. There's something about him that calms my obsessive-compulsive side. And of course there's Ernest (my ever efficient, nice coordinator) who will do everything is his power to make the wedding as glitch-free as possible. I also turn to him when I'm freaking out about something/anything wedding related. He's really a savior as he keeps me sane.

19 Days To Go

2005-12-04T21:45:00.000+08:00

Oh my its only 19 days to go before the big day. I can't believe we're almost at the finish line. It took us a year to prepare for this...and now the its barely two weeks to go. Am I excited? Of course. Am I nervous? Yes.

So here are the things that we still need to do:
- Pre cana seminar at St. James
- Confirmation (Jacq) at St. James
- Approved centerpiece for the reception tables
- Print misalettes (I have to proofread this first then my coordinator will send it for printing)
- Finalized table seating (for the guests)
- Buy B's shoes
- Buy B's cufflinks and long sleeves (for the portrait pictorial)
- Order sandalwood fans for the guests (to be used at the ceremony),
- Prepare cheques for suppliers' payment
- Follow up with Sonny when is the delivery date of the jewelry box (souvenir 1)
- Follow up with San Sia when is the delivery date of the bracelets (souvenir 2)
- Follow up with John when is the delivery date of the candles (souvenir 3)

Anything else I missed?

On our Invitations

2005-12-03T22:32:00.000+08:00

I absolutely love our invitation! My mom sent us our share of the invites (to give our friends here) through fedex so I got it the following day. It was a bit heavy so the shipping charges was about 2k (for 16sets of invites). When I opened the box and saw the invitation, I was completely satisfied with the outcome. I tell you its one thing seeing a nice invitation its another reading your names in it...its like "this is really it, its happening...and soon." It was so surreal. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face that day. It was really worth the splurge. Our friends who got the invites said it was nice too.

Here's the pics of our invites...
Our names on the front cover of our booklet-type invites

Main invite page

RSVP Page

Entourage list page

The Map

Calligraphy by Janine Dario

Envelope seal

When we were looking for our invitation, we knew we wanted something elegant. We don't want anything colorful, quirky, comical for the invites (no offense to people who would go for this type of invites). We wanted something traditional...timeless...classic (this is how I see our invites). We opt for the booklet type invites because we want everything to be intact no matter how the guests would take it out from the envelope. Except for the map page the rest is binded together. I asked Amis to make a flap on the inside back cover of the invite to put the map in. This way the guests can easily take it out. Hmmm...we had the guests in mind when we chose the invites.

Bridal Shower

2005-11-28T21:29:00.000+08:00

Last Wednesday (exactly one month before the big day)we had our bridal shower. Yes "we" because on Dec. 21 it will be the wedding of Myrna and Bong (yes same name as my hubby), oh this is gonna be a bit confusing (LOL). When Myrns gave me their invitation for a couple of seconds I was asking myself why B's name was on the monogram, til I remember the reason being they have the same name. Back to bridal shower kwento. It wasn't a surprise since the venue was our house but that was all I knew...the date, time and place. I was clueless about the rest. So Jaimie (she organized everything along with Bang...thanks girls) arrived first to put the banners and the favors and prizes. It was around 8pm when people started coming. Its a bit different without all the guys and kids around but I knew its going to be fun. We each had a flower tucked behind our ear which was part of the first game. Whoever catched someone crossing her legs or mentioning the word "marriage" is entitled to claim the flower of that person. I lost mine because I crossed my legs...Bang won this game :) The next game was more exciting and ermmm slippery and slimy...oh my what a noisy lot we were. I wont elaborate further about the game as I'm trying to keep this blog wholesome :) Myrna's group won this game (oh well as we say they're the professionals when it comes to -----. After that game we ate dinner (dinner for me I think it was snack for them). Everyone brought a little something to share. After eating Jaimie passed around m&m's (or was it nips?) to everyone...that was before she noticed a few of the girls nibbling some already (hello Cel). Some girls took a little (I got two) and some took a lot (Raquel took six I think). When everyone got have m&m's in their hands Jaimie explained to everyone that the number of m&m's represent the number of things we're going to share with the group. Let's just say I got a lot of valuable information from the sharing :) We chatted till it was almost midnight (to think we all have work the following day), then we finally called the boys to come up (they were at the poolside) and eat.

Here's some of the pics...

Where I belong

2005-11-27T12:18:00.000+08:00

You belong in London. You like chique things and
you love very expensive things.

In What City Do You Belong?
brought to you by Quizilla

Tagged by Tin

2005-11-24T19:12:00.000+08:00

I've been tagged by Tin (a.k.a. Mrs. S). So here my answers...

2 names you go by
Jacq
Jackie

2 parts of your heritage
100% Filipina
-----

2 things that scare you
cockroaches
old age (and im not talking about the wrinkles here but the fact that someday I'll be too old to take care of myself and B)

2 of your everyday essentials
coffee (around 3 times a week)
anything about scrapbooking

2 things you are wearing right now
tee
denim shorts (i'm at home now)

2 of your favorite bands or musical artists (at the moment)
Guy Sebastian
chipmunks

2 favorite songs (at the moment)
12 days of christmas
Angels Brought Me Here

2 things you want in a relationship (other than real love)
patience
lots of hugs

2 truths
I love shoes.
I love B.

2 physical things that appeal to you (in the opposite sex)
eyes
lips

2 of your favorite hobbies
scrapbooking
shopping for shoes(and other stuff of course!)

2 things you want really badly
for the wedding to be successful
have more scrapbooking skills

2 places you want to go on vacation
Italy
New Zealand

2 things you want to do before you die
tour Europe
(i really cant think of anything else at the moment)

2 ways that you are stereotypically a dude/chick
PMS
shopaholic

2 things you are thinking about
the wedding
....the wedding

2 stores you shop at
Charles & Keith
The Body Shop (can I add more?)

2 people i would like to see take this quiz
Leah
Joann

The Goblet of Fire

2005-11-20T10:23:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

B and I watched Harry Potter 4 today. I've been looking forward to this movie eversince I finished reading all the 6 books. By far HP4 is my favorite book in the series. The movie was good but I guess nothing beats reading the book itself. It would be impossible to fit in all the details in the book for a two-hour long movie so a lot of things in the book were not included. Hmmm...I was a bit disappointed that Sirius Black only appeared once in the movie whereas in the book he was in constant communication with Harry (Sirius is one of my favorite character). Oh and Mrs. Weasley wasn't there as well. But overall I still like the movie.

Updates

2005-11-20T09:29:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I know I havent updated this blog since forever. I do have updates to share but I just don't have the time to blog. With almost a month to go before the big day I guess its about time to post our updates...

Bridal gown - done, I just have to see how it with the sash on.
Moms' and entourage gowns - final fitting this Saturday. Except for one of our flower girl who is here in SG and my cousin who lives in Gen. Santos City everyone fitted their gowns.

Bong's barong & pants - we have the design already and Bong had his measurement taken as well. This can be done in about 5 days according to Ms. Merlene so no worries.

Dads' barongs & kids' barongs - done, Papa had his barong & pants made by Ms. Merlene as well. B's dad and the kids has their barongs & pants made by a family friend.

Church Requirements - we are scheduled for the pre cana seminar on Dec. 16th and I will have my confirmation on the 17th. Bong's wedding banns will be publish starting today while mine will start next Sunday. We've been living in SG for about 4 years now so St. James is requesting us to get certificate of freedom to marry from our parish here. I tried to email our parish priest but it was undelivered. I guess I just have to talk to him personally after the mass. The rest we've submitted already.

Reception - Our reception layout was already approved by our AE. We've finalized the menu as well. Just a few minor details to discuss.

Hotel - We've reserved two deluxe rooms and one presmiere suite at Bellevue. We just need to make the payment maybe by next week. I just have to finalize how many nights exactly are we going to stay there.

Hair & makeup artist - We will get Prady of Fringe & Co to do my HMU as well as our moms and my SILs. As for the entourage we got Ms. Tess of Tropicana (thanks to Leah for the contact info).

Church Flowers - as you know St. James have their in house florist so we really didn't have much choice. Their florist charge so much you see so we got the middle range package only. We just have to get in touch with Mrs. Jurilla to make sure everything is okay.

Reception & Entourage flowers - Ms. Gina will do another mockups for us for the low centerpiece. As for the entourage flowers and my bouquet everything is already settled.

Cake - I need to email Mr. Alex Franco regarding the final design of the cake. I have to ask Ernest to get fabric swatches from Ms. Merlene to give to Mr. Alex.

Souvenirs - Mr. Sonny of Excel Frames haven't replied to my email yet so I'm getting in touch with other suppliers. So far I'm corresponding with Tiffany of Tiffanynovelty.

Misalette - I'm doing the misalette cover and Ernest will have the content printed out in PH (its much cheaper there than here).

Invitation - we will get the invitation of tuesday. Distribution will start on wednesday (exactly one month before the wedding).

I guess this covered pretty much everything. Did I leave anything out? Let me know...

Sentimental

2005-10-30T10:03:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Okay so I've been procrastinating for the past weeks. Other things consumes most of my time these days. Seriously I must get attend to wedding stuff now....I'm just glad Ernest is around to remind me of the things we need to do/settle/submit. If not for him I think me life would me chaotic (than normal...lol). I can't believe its barely two months before the big day. I'm excited and at the same time nervous. Why excited?Well I'll be marrying B of course! We've been together for a long time and I couldn't be happier that finally everyone we love will be a witness of our love for each other. I think most girls (if not all) have a vision of their dream wedding in their minds...even if they haven't found the love of their life yet. I had my dream wedding in mind too...the long aisle, the beautiful cake, the lovely gown and all other details. I'm just glad that I found the perfect man to spend the rest of my life with. I'll always be grateful to God for giving me B. On that special day, I will be standing next to B...

All for him

2005-10-19T20:09:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Here's the design of B's barong.

here's the pic of what the barong will look like

We also got his barong and pants from Merlene. He had his measurements taken also last May when were in Manila. The package comes with the long sleeves undershirt as well. So we only have to scout for a nice pair of shoes and cufflinks.

A toast

2005-10-07T00:10:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Ain't these nice...

Check list

2005-10-07T00:09:00.000+08:00

GENERAL
~~Set the Date and time of the wedding~~
~~Decide on the venue of the wedding ceremony~~ * ~~Decide on the venue of the reception~~
~~Choose a wedding theme~~ * ~~Choose the color motif~~
~~Prepare a preliminary budget~~
~~Choose the members of the entourage~~ * ~~Inform the members of the entourage~~
~~Choose principal sponsors~~ * ~~Invite formally principal sponsors.~~
Finalize arrangements with the coordinator
~~Draft guest list~~ * Finalize guest list
Schedule and firm up the details for a wedding rehearsal
Reconfirm important details with all suppliers
Confirm delivery schedules from all suppliers
Go over personal trousseau for last-minute needs

CHURCH
~~Book the church and know its restrictions~~ * ~~Pay down payment~~ * Pay balance
~~Meet the florist~~ * ~~pay down payment~~ * pay balance
~~Acquire original copy of baptismal certificate - Jacq~~
~~Acquire original copy of baptismal certificate - Bong~~
Have confirmation * Acquire confirmation certificate – Jacq
~~Acquire confirmation certificate - Bong~~
~~Schedule canonical interview with the priest~~ * ~~Attend canonical interview~~
Attend pre-cana seminar
Obtain wedding banns – Jacq - to be done this month
Obtain wedding banns – Bong - to be done this month
~~Acquire marriage license~~
Submit names of lectors and commentators
~~Attend family planning seminar at the city hall.~~ - actually not needed anymore
~~Meet the missalette maker and decide on the content and format of the missalette.~~
Submit missalette to St. James for approval - to be done next week
Have a confession – Jacq
Have a confession - Bong
Submit names of the principal sponsors - to be done next week
Submit the name of the official photographer\ videographer to St. James

RECEPTION
~~Book the reception~~ * ~~Pay down payment~~ * Pay balance
~~Schedule food tasting~~ * Finalize the menu
~~Have a meeting with the florist~~ * ~~Choose the flowers to be used for the reception~~ * Pay Downpayment * Pay Balance * Finalize all set up
~~View mock set ups of the florist~~
Draft seating layout * Finalize seating layout
Find wraps/sash for the seats matching the motif
DIY table cards * ~~Buy table number holders~~
Draft reception program * Make plans for the church ceremony and the reception program
~~Buy a guest book for the reception~~
Check and confirm head count, venue, and reception details with venue-in-charge and caterer
~~Email top choices~~ * ~~Book a cake artist~~ * Finalized cake design * Pay downpayment

BRIDAL & ENTOURAGE GOWNS
~~Book couturier~~ * ~~Pay down payment~~ * Pay balance
~~Meet with designer the show gown designs I like~~ * ~~Have gown sketches~~ *
~~Have bridal gown measurements taken~~ * ~~Have entourage’s gown measurements taken~~
~~Fit lining of the gown - Jacq~~
Arrange dates for the bride and the entourage to fit their gowns (final fitting)
Pick up gowns of entourage
~~Buy bridal shoes~~ * ~~Give bridal Shoes to designer for beadworks~~
Complete the bridal accessories: which include jewelry, hosiery, arrhae, veil,
~~cord~~, candles, matches, confetti, and rice grains

GROOM, FATHERS AND NEPHEWS BARONG AND PANTS
~~Meet with the designer and have all measurements taken - Bong~~
Meet with the tailor and have all measurements taken - Dads & Kids
Pay down payment * Pay balance
Buy barongs and pants for Papa and Daddy
~~Buy barongs and pants for Carl, Charles, Jed & John~~

INVITATION
~~Shop around for local stationers for the invitation~~
~~Order invitations~~ * ~~Pay down payment~~* Pay balance
Hire a calligrapher * Address invitations
~~Make save-the-date cards~~* ~~Send save-the-date cards~~

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER
~~Book photographer/videographer~~ * ~~Pay down payment~~ * Pay balance
~~Meet with the photographer/videographer to view creative portfolio~~
Discuss with the photographer/videographer how the wedding will be covered * Give list of important shots
~~Schedule pre nups~~
~~Choose from the pre nup pictures which will be part of the avp~~

GIFTS FOR ATTENDANTS, PRINCIPAL SPONSORS & SOUVENIRS
Choose gifts for the bridal registry
~~Buy gifts for the female entourage~~ * Buy gifts for the male entourage
Buy gifts for the flower girls * ~~Buy gifts for the boys~~
Buy gifts for the principal sponsors * Have all tokens for the sponsors and the entourage gift wrapped
~~Look for wedding favors~~ * ~~Choose wedding favors~~
Order wedding favors from Excel Frames * Pay down payment * Pay balance
Record gifts received in advance and start making “thank you” notes

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
~~Choose the band or String musicians to play at the ceremony and reception~~
~~Pay downpayment~~ * Pay balance
~~Submit song list for church ceremony and reception~~
~~Choose the type of music for the church and the reception~~

WEDDING PREPS
Book Hotel rooms for the bride, groom and the wedding party * Make Payment

HAIR & MAKEUP
~~Look for a hair and makeup artist~~
~~Schedule a trial hair-and-makeup session~~
~~Book hair and makeup artist~~ * ~~Pay down payment~~ * Pay balance

TRANSPORTATION
Check the bridal car
Finalize accommodation arrangements for out-of-town guests
Make arrangement for transportation requirements of the entire bridal party

HONEYMOON
Make honeymoon plans
Finalize honeymoon bookings by securing the appropriate documents

Things to do

2005-10-05T20:36:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

After weeks of hibernation I'm finally posting something here again :) Here's the things that we still need to settle for the big day

HOTEL ACCOMODATION

Vivere or Bellevue?
Option A: 2 two-bedroom suite
Option B: 1 two-bedroom suite and 2 deluxe rooms

For whom:
- Bride & bride's family
- Groom & groom's family
- Entourage

Check in: 12/22/2005
Check out: 23/12/2005 & 24/12/2005
- couple will stay 1 more night

CHURCH REQUIREMENTS

Baptismal cert - Both submitted already
Confirmation cert - Bong submitted already; Jacq will be confirmed in December
Marriage contract - submitted already
Wedding banns - will get forms from St. James to be submitted to our respective parish
Canonical Interview - done already
Pre-cana seminar - Singapore - only available slot is on 25-27 Nov.
- inquire if this could be done in December at St. James
Misalette - to be submitted at St. James for approval next week
Misallete cover - finalizing design

RECEPTION

Table layout
- approved by Ms. Anne already

Table linens
- white table cloth with pink table runner
- ask what is the fabric material of the table runners

Chair covers
- white chair covers with alternating pink and champagne sash\ribbon

Seating chart
- will be done once the guest list is finalized

Table napkin arrangement
- program folded inside the table napkin tied with pink of champagne ribbon
- personalized mini chocolate bar placed at the center
- another alternative instead of ribbon, strand of small faux pearls

Table numbers & holders
table number layout - c/o Ernest

table number holders
wooden frames in easel stand bought from Ikea
size of the frames - 4 x 6

Guestbook
guestbook layout - c/o Ernest

Program
program layout - c/o Ernest

Menu
to be finalized soon

CHURCH FLOWERS

from Mother Butler
- standard 14k package, no special arrangement whatsoever
- all white flowers

RECEPTION FLOWERS

centerpieces
- alternating tall & low flower arrangements
- tall centerpieces to be place strategically
- flowers - monochromatic shade of pink

tall centerpiece
- finalized arrangement already
-less greens more flowers
- minimal mums and gerberas will be used
- at least 3 yards of faux pearls required for each table
- pink/clear votive candle holders wil be used

low centerpieces
- haven't finalized the arrangement yet
- square glass vase with pink/champagne organza to be placed inside
- at least 3 yards of faux pearls required for each table
- pink/clear votive candle holders wil be used

Couple's table
- will upgrade to roman pillars as back drop

BRIDAL\ENTOURAGE FLOWERS

Bride's bouquet
- hand tied pink peonies
- throw away bouquet
- ask if there would be a small bouquet for the mannequin

Entourage
Maid of Honor & bridesmaids
- hand tied bouquets
- ask if all roses bouquet is possible
Secondary sponsors
- wristlers

Flower girls
- headpiece & pomander
- ask if all roses is possible

Moms
- small bouquet

Principal sponsors
- small bouquet

Grandma
- wrist corsage

Bridal car flowers
- confirm who will provide the flowers

GOWNS\BARONGS

Bridal gown
discuss with Ms. Merlene the sash idea
flap of the back portion of the gown needs to be adjusted, different design
detachable train
veil - ask how long is the veil

Bride's second gown
design was given and approved by Ms. Merlene
color in champagne

Mom's gowns
Bong's mom
design chosen & measurement taken
schedule first fitting
shoulder part will be readjusted
request for a matching bag\pouch

Jacq's mom
design chosen & measurement taken
ask Ms. Merlene to email sketch of the gown
schedule first fitting

Female Entourage
Jacq, Karen, Marge and Joy
design chosen & measurement taken
first fitting done, some adjustments required
Ms. Merlene emailed the pics of the gowns
schedule second fitting, ask bridesmaids' feedback
some alterations, modifications maybe required

Adel, Joan, Claudine, Chiariel & Mariel
design chosen & measurement taken
schedule first fitting, ask bridesmaids' feedback
some alterations, modifications maybe required
Chiariel will only be in Manila on Dec. 20 (she's here in Singapore)

Quennie, Jessica & Princess
measurements will be given to Ms. Merlene by
schedule first fitting, ask bridesmaids' feedback
some alterations, modifications maybe required

For Secondary Sponsors
gowns will have a champagne colored sash with flower detail

For Flower Girls
gowns will have champagne colored sash

Sash for the gowns
ask for swatches from Ms. Merlene for perusal

Fabric swatches
ask for fabric swatches (champagne) to be given to the female principal sponsors

Bridal shoes
already given to Ms. Merlene for beadwork and embroidery

Bride's Bag
design chosen already
beadwork and embroidery to match the gown and shoes

Groom's barong & pants
measurements taken
ask Ms. Merlene for sample designs for the barong
long sleeve undershirt included

Barong & pants - Bong's dad & kids
measurements taken already
c/o a family friend
ask what fabric will be used and the quotation

Barong & pants - Jacq's dad
will look for a supplier once he arrives in Manila

Barong & pants - Male entourage
they will provide their own
ask them if they need help in scouting for a supplier

CAKE DESIGN
inform Alex of the revised design for the cake
champagne color for all the five layers instead of white
pink pearl beads
monochromatic pink flowers (no stargazer, mums and gerberas)
flavors same as previously agreed

cake table design
votive candles, scattered champagne colored faux pearls

provide swatches from Ms. Merlene for his reference

SOUVENIRS, GIFTS FOR WEDDING PARTY
Souvenir
will ask my mom to visit the showroom of Excel Frames
if everything goes well, will pay downpayment
order 100pcs.

Souvenir holder/pouch/box
find a supplier for this

Gifts for female entourage
bought

Gifts for male entourage
not sure yet

Gifts for female principal sponsors
probably something from regalong pambahay
other options: buy from L'occitaine or Crabtree & Evelyn

Gifts for male principal sponsors
- not sure yet
- ideas: wine & corkscrew opener or tie & cuff links

Gifts for the flower girls
- not sure yet
- idea: a teddy bear in a pink gown

Gifts for the boys
- flik flak kids watch from swatch

Gifts for the parents
- not sure yet

This check list is not yet complete though, this may seem a lot but I'm just really detailed (hehehe). I just don't want to forget anything. The main concern right now is the pre cana seminar. I have to know if its possible for us to do this in December when we arrive in Manila. If its not then we have no choice but to do attend the Catholic Engaged Encounter here, its pretty much like the discovery weekend (3 days also). The only problem though is that I have to take a leave of two days to be able to attend this. I'm already taking a 15-day leave in December for the wedding so as much as possible I don't want to take anymore leaves. Keeping my fingers crossed that we could do this in Manila na lang.

Pictures!

2005-09-24T20:35:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

These photos were taken at Botanical Garden... ala prenup daw...hehehe

Me, the scrapartist

2005-09-18T16:25:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I finally had the guts to post one of my LOs at Scrapartist. Well that was after I purchased kits online. I set up my paypal account first then kit shopping followed. I have tons of free kits which I downloaded from various sites but then everything is a mess at the moment. I'm trying to organize it in a way that would allow me to look for what I want in less time, but its a tedious task so I got bored. I'm not sure if I'm going to push through with this idea. B also got a 250gig NAS(Network Attached Storage) so now I have 60gig of disk space for my kits, I ran out of disk space(yup kits do take up a lot of space) the other night so now everything is in order again.

So here's the LO I've been talking about...

Still a newbie but I think this one is not bad...

I also entered an "Ad Challenge" for the first time...it was so much fun. I used a photo of my younger sister for this project.

So here it is...

what yah think of this one?

Oh yeah I was suppose to start designing our table numbers (we already bought the picture frame with easel stand yesterday...total price came out at S$51.65) but I got caught up with making LOs instead.

Litl details

2005-09-16T22:50:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

As I've mentioned in my previous post B and I went to Ikea last week. I found this picture frame with an easel stand and took a picture of it. I wasn't thinking of it as something I could use for the wedding but I thought it was nice. I also found a memo holder there that would be really nice as a table number holder (see previous post for pic) but its a bit pricey for me. Then the other day as I was browsing my mobile phone's gallery for something to send B I saw the picture frame with easel stand again then I thought to myself we could use this for table number holders too, and its relatively cheap compared to the other one I wanted sana. So tomorrow we're off to Ikea again to make a purchase.

Picture frame with easel stand for table number holders

I will be designing the layout of the table numbers as well as the program cards...oh I might as well start that now...

Invite Layout

2005-09-16T20:21:00.000+08:00

I got the layout of our invites today...what can I say I love it!well it has typos pa but I want to post it here nevertheless...

This is the front page of the our invites, I love the monogram created for us by our coord

This is the main invite page, I love the font used for our names

Entourage list page

RSVP page

Finally, this is the map

I got so excited when I saw this. I was the one who chose this invite. This is similar to the one I saw in Metro mag (I forgot which issue) but that one was so pricey so I got the alternative na lang para cheaper (I know its not wise to spend so much on the invites but I really really like it so I gave in kahit mahal).

Finally

2005-09-13T00:32:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Finally after a small bump on the road everything is fine again. Last night my mom sms me the middle initial of our PS, the last one without middle initial! Now our list is complete, we can proceed to proofreading and mock ups...yipee!I'm so glad this is finally over (after almost two months of pleading my mom to get the complete names and all). Now I can move on to other stuff. We're back on track!

Digiscrappy me...
I'm into digiscrapping right now. Thank goodness for a fast connection I manage to haul many kits in such a short period of time. But now my digiscrap folder is very messy. Well its not that messy actually, I have separate folders for each kit...got the name and designer of the kit as the title on it too. The problem is that I am having difficulty finding what I need when I'm doing LOs. I have to look at each folder to check if it has the "pink stitched ribbon" that I need and it takes forever. I've decided to organize it in such a way that all ribbons are in one folder so I can browse easily and find the one that would complete the LO I'm doing. Of course I still have to name it in such a way that the filename is the name of the kit and the designer so I can give proper credit in the future. This task is quite daunting though as I have accumulated tons of kits already. Well I have to start somewhere...and I'll do it now...wish me luck girls!

Friend of Ikea

2005-09-11T17:14:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Yesterday B and I went to Ikea. We wanted to use the voucher we had before it expires (or we forget about it). Other than shopping, what I look forward to is dining at their restaurant. Its not exactly a pleasant experience since it is always packed with people therefore a bit challenging to get seats (but so far we've been lucky to find seats right away). I just love their swedish meatballs and their poached salmon thats why I don't mind the crowded place...and their desserts are good too. I am a member so we get drinks for free.
Is is yummy or what?

So now back to shopping. We didn't have anything in particular to buy so we browse the store to check out their new stuff. I found cute photo/memo holder that would be great as table number holders for the reception. I will need around 20-25 of these cuties for each table.

I didn't buy yet though, at S$2.90 a piece I was thinking I could find something similar but cheaper here or in Pinas. But still its really cute. The stuff I bought though are a new set of Fornuft cutlery set, bread basket, printed table napkins, quiltcover, storage boxes and cable organizer. I'm looking forward to my next Ikea visit.

Other updates:
Our entourage and principal sponsors list is finally complete. At last I can actually see the real mock ups (which is up to now still stored in the computer). Can't wait to see the invites.

I finished our cord too. It looks very nice (to me ha...of course this is DIY), simple design but elegant. Now I can do other bead stuff.

Calligraphy

2005-09-10T00:57:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

This is the font we will use in addressing the invites. I got this from the proposal of Wewe Ocampo.

Other updates:
I bought gifts for the female entourage today. Actually I only manage to get five so I still have four more to go. Since some of my friends read this blog (I think) I won't tell what I bought for them or post pics. All I can say is its something they can definitely use and most women (if not all) can't get enough of. I hope they like it.

Don't throw away...

2005-09-08T21:51:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I got this forwarded email from Adel(my MOH) this morning. I find it interesting so I posted it here...

Don't throw away the 90% that you already have!
By Bo Sanchez
From his book: You Have the Power to Create Love

ADULTERY happens when you start looking for what you don't have.

"Bo, this girl in my office is a real looker," many a husband will say.
"But it's not her Wynona Rider features that got me. I'm head over heels
with her because she's also understanding, intelligent, tender-- so many
things that my wife is not."

Sure.

Guys, trust me on this. Somewhere along the way, you'll find a woman who
will be more charming. More alluring. More thoughtful. Richer. Be a better cook.
Have greater sex appeal. Be a more efficient housekeeper. And you will find
a woman &n bsp;who will need you and pursue you and go loco over you more than your
wife ever did. Because no wife is perfect. Because a wife will only have 90%
of what you're looking for. So adultery takes place when a husband looks for the missing 10%.

Let's say your wife is melancholic by nature. You may find yourself drawn to the
pretty clerk who has a cherry laugh no matter what she says: "I broke my arm
yesterday, Hahahaha..." Or because your wife is a homebody in slippers and
pajamas, smelling of garlic and fish oil, you may fall for a fresh-smelling young
sales representative that visits your office in a sharp black blazer, high heels,
and a red pencil-cut skirt. Or because your wife is the quiet type (a rare find),
your heart may skip a beat when you meet an old college flame who has the
makings of a talk show host like Oprah.

But wait! That's only 10% of what you don't have.

Don't throw away the 90% that you already have!

That's not all. Add to your wife's 90% the 1000% that represents all the years
that you have been with each other. The storms you have weathered together.
The unforgettable moments of sadness and joy as a couple. The many adjustments
you have made to love the other. The wealth of memories that you've accumulated as lovers.

Adultery happens when you start looking for what you don't have. But
faithfulness happens when you start thanking God for what you already have.

But I'm not just talking about marriage. I'm talking about life!
About your jobs. About your friends. About your children. About your prayer
groups. About your lifestyles.

Are you like the economy airline passenger that perennially peeks through
the door of the first class cabin, obsessed with what he's missing? "They
have got more leg room! Oh my, their food is served in porcelain! Wow,
their seats recline at an 80% angle and they've got personal videos!" I
guarantee you'll be miserable for the entire trip!

Don't live your life like that. Forget about what the world says is first class.
(Do you know that there are many first class passengers who are miserable
in first class -- because they're not riding in a private Lear Jet?)

My main message: If you start thanking G od for what you have right now,
wherever you are... is first class!
You have wealth under your nose. Thank Him.

Let's pray to God that we be blessed with a grateful heart and thankful attitude all the time.

Our wedding Website

2005-09-05T14:20:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Finally we have our WEDDING WEBSITE!I'm soo excited with this one. Its still under construction but I've set up all the basics.

This is a paid wedding website. I figured since we will be distributing our save the date magnets this week, we should also include our website so guests could RSVP online. What's more we could put all the details about the wedding there as well. I've searched the net for wedsites but found out some of them only offer a minimum of one year subcription. Since out wedding is three months away that would be a waste of money. Luckily I came across a site which offers a six months subscription, so I decided to give it a try. It was sooo easy to use and the support staff promptly replied to my queries. I'm still on the seven free trial program but I will sign up for the six months subscription once the trial period expires.

Here's the link: Bong & Jacq

A weekend well spent

2005-09-04T23:59:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

It's been a nice weekend for me and B.

Last friday I was craving to eat at Kenny Rogers (this is where we dined on our first date...it was in Manila though) so we decided to go to Suntec for dinner. I forgot that there was an IT Show at the convention center, the place was just so full of people. Since we were already there and I really want to eat at KR we decided to brave the crowd. Actually B wants to check out the expo but I told him its still on until Sunday so he should just come back.

Saturday afternoon B and me went to Chinatown to check out possible gifts for our principial sponsors and suppliers. B didn't like the idea of going there with me (but then again he doesn't have a choice). We have ideas now of what to buy for them but we heven't bought anything yet. We're still keeping our options open...

Sunday we went to Suntec again. I ended up still accompanying B to the expo. There was still a lot of people. Since it was early we decided to watch a movie. There were no good movies to watch to we settled for Herbie Fully Loaded. The movie was okay. I wouldn't have watched it if there were other choices though. After the movie movie we walked around for a bit then bought stuff (shoes for B bag for me) then went home.

Normally I would spend my weekends at home and to household chores. This is a nice change...

Rundown of accomplishments

2005-09-04T01:40:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Church: Parish of Saint James the Great
50% downpayment paid.
Officiating Priest -
nonical Interview - done
Marriage Banns - submitting the letter from St. James to our respective parish some time in October
Pre-Cana - have yet to ask our parish priest here in SG about this

Reception: The Palms Country Club
Confirmed reservations.
50% downpayment paid.
Food tasting - done
Menu - we're about to finalize this
Other details - we have yet to discuss this with Anne

Photographer/Videographer: Ariel Javelosa
25% downpayment paid.
Prenup pictorials - done
50% will be paid 5 days after the wedding. The rest when everything is delivered.

Bridal,Moms, Entourage Gown and Barong and Pants for the Groom: Merlene Mercelo
Bride, Gown beadworks & embroidery - 50% done (rough estimate only)
Moms, Gown beadworks & embroidery - ongoing. will have first fitting in October
Entourage, Gown beadworks & embroidery - ongoing. will have fittings in October
Groom's barong and pants - measurement taking done. will select design for embroidery soon.

Veil: Merlene Mercelo
part of the bridal package

Shoes: bought something off the rack
Beadwork and embroidery - c/o Merlene Mercelo

Hair accessories: no idea yet

Cord and Boxes: ongoing, this is DIY

Secondary Veil and Garter: part of bridal package

Wedding arrhae: c/o my dad
we will be using the coins my father collected from all the countries he went to

Male Entourage Suits: c/o male entourage members :)
I think they will get their own

Ento flowers: Royal Flower Shoppe
45% downpayment paid.
Currently having mock ups for the centerpieces.
Will pay full amount in December

Church Decor: Mother Butler Guild
50% downpayment paid

Cake: Alex Franco
we didn't get the cake from Palms.
had a meeting with Alex about the cake design and flavors.
no downpayment needed. fullpayment on the day of the wedding itself.

Flutes for wine toasting and Cake Server Set
Flutes -probably just going to buy an inexpensive set and spruce it up
Cake Server set - c/o Alex Franco

Ceremony & Reception Music: Leggiero Strings
50% downpayment paid, balance remaining to be paid a week before.
Currently compiling songs to be played for the ceremony & reception
Will sign an official contract with them once we are done with the song list.

Wedding Rings: Tak King Jewelry International
25% downpayment paid
we gave them the pic of the design we wanted

Invitations: Amis Printing
50% downpayment paid
we gave Amis the list of the entourage and sponsors, will do proofreading this month
target release date - last week of October to first week of November

Missalette: DIY
my coord will do the misalette and submit to St. James for approval
Cover lay out: design by Me & Gina

Guestbook: c/o my coord
he will use our prenup pictues for this

HMU: Prady of Fringe & co
reservation fee - paid

Coordinator: Events! Events!
full coordination service - 50% downpayment paid
my coord and I are corresponding all the time

Accomodations: Viviere Suites
will reserve rooms sometime next month

Souvenirs: we have ideas already, but we're still open for better options

Gifts for the principal sponsors: we have some ideas already but we're still looking for better ones.

Honeymoon: Part 1:Philippines (probably after Christmas)
Part 2: __________ (during Chinese New Year...I hope)

Did I forget anything?

Its our Date

2005-09-02T22:48:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Our Save The Date Magnets

Finally its here! Ok so it was delivered to our house last Tuesday. Since it was registered mail and no one was home to sign for the package the postman just left us a note (saying he tried to deliver and we have to call to arrange for another delivery). I called Singpost and opted for the package to be transferred to the nearest post office to B could just pick it up during his lunchbreak. And so today he did, we will probably start distributing this tomorrow.

B and I will go to Chinatown tomorrow to check out possible gifts for the Principal Sponsors and our suppliers as well(or should I say I forced B to come with me).

Its already September, as the big days draws nearer and nearer each passing day...I promised myself not to procrastinate anymore.

Digiscrappy

2005-08-30T23:59:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I just tried this out for fun (or should I say out of boredom) and now I'm hooked. I'm fortunate that I have a fast internet connection, I can download kits in a jiffy. We have tons of pictures thats just stuck in B's hard drive so I have a lot to work with. Now I have two projects...to create an album of our prenup pics (which is going quite well) and another album for our travel pics. Lucky me I was chatting with Aggie (Hello dear) about digiscrap last night and she mentioned this site that offers layout, printing and hard bound album for scrappers. So I checked their webbie and I was delighted to see their services. I will contact them one of these days...

About Wedding preps...
My Mom finally gave me the list of the principal sponsors...I was so relieved. At least we're still on schedule.
My coord sent me pics of the mock ups with Royal Flower Shoppe...Hmmm a lot of revisions pa, I won't put pics muna.

Gowns Galore

2005-08-28T10:05:00.000+08:00

I love the sash and flower detail of this dress. The secondary sponsors will have this detail on their gowns. Speaking of gowns, finally my mom and one of my cousins had their measurement taking yesterday. My youngest sister also had her first fitting as well. My mom suggested that her gown should have straps, but gowns looks really pretty (Merl emailed me pics of the gowns for me to see the progress). Oh and I also got the picture of my gown...and what can I say I love it!

I'm doing all these

2005-08-25T00:32:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Its only 121 days before the big day! We've booked all the major suppliers and paid most of them down payments. At the moment I'm tackling the nitty gritty part of wedding preps...the details. I must say this proves to be more challenging. Right now, we're finalizing the misalette cover design (by we I mean me and Gina). I think we have the final design na. I just have to go and buy textured papers at Made With Love tomorrow. I'm hoping to find other goodies there too such as nice ribbons and embellishments. I've also decided to use the same design for the programs and the boxes for the arrhae and rings so everything will be coordinated.

Updates and more

2005-08-21T13:36:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I haven't posted anything for a while...I've been quite busy.

The list of our principal sponsors is not yet complete at the moment, and its driving me nuts. The fact that I have no control over this makes me more worried. Oh well I just have to beg my mom to make up their minds on who they want to be our PS. My coord scheduled mock-ups with our florist on the 27th. I hope this turns out well. Our save the date magnets was delivered to our house (in Manila) via Fedex last week. I just need to arrange for it be shipped here. I really want to hand this out to our friends before the end of this month. Mom and my two other cousins will have their measurement taking hopefully this Saturday (mom keeps rescheduling). I have chosen several design for my second gown and will forward it to my coordinator. Here are some of my choices...

My second gown won't have train though...and minimize beadwork unlike my wedding gown. I think I will wear this as a dressing gown (para may pics din ako wearing this di ba).

Here's the things we're dealing with at the moment...
Guestbook layout - my coord will be designing ours (for free)
Misalette - my friend Gina is designing the cover and my coord will take care of the contents
Cord - I'm doing the other half of the cord now

Payments due this month
Palms - 50% downpayment
Royal Flower Shoppe - downpayment

Tagged take two

2005-08-11T21:48:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I've been tagged by Leah (I just love being tagged!)

A is for Accent: My Mom was born and raised in Negros so she's Ilongga. Growing up we usually spend summer at my grandparents house, thats how I manage to learn to speak a little Ilonggo.
B is for Biggest expense: Shoes!Clothes!Watch!Beads!

C is for Chore I hate: Folding clothes (I don't do the laundry either).

D is for Dad's name: Jim

E is for Essential cosmetic item: Moisturizer (I don't forget putting this one...I don't leave the house without powder and mascara)

F is for Favorite perfume or cologne: Ralph Lauren, Gucci Envy, CK Contradiction & Victoria Secret

G is for Gold or silver: White Gold & Silver, no yellow ones for me

H is for Hometown: Taytay Rizal

I is for Insomnia: I don't really sleep early, this is a habit I picked up back in college when we use to stay up late to finish projects (or should I say we were out bar hopping...hehehe).

J is for Job title: Full time Luv ni B (yikes ang corny) and professional as well

K is for Kids: I want to have a baby girl...I have a name for her already (which I won't tell anyone), have this name since highschool :)

L is for Living arrangements: Living comfortably in SG

M is for Mom's birthplace: Negros

N is Number of apples you've eaten: Oh I don't have any idea

O is for Overnight hospital stays: Not really an overnight stay but we did went there in the middle of the night, I think I was about 6 or 7. Thats when they found out I'm allergic to shrimps.

P is for Phobia: Injections scared the hell out of me as a child, I've outgrown that fear though. But the sight of flying cockroaches freak me out (and gross me out at the same time).

Q is for Quest: To have a wonderful life

R is for Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic

S is for Siblings: 2 younger sisters

T is for Time I wake up: I wake up at 7:00am six days a week.

U is for Unnatural hair colors I've worn: None

V is for Vegetable I refuse to eat: Let's see, I don't like Ampalaya

W is for Worst habit: I have lazy days

X is for X-rays I've had: The usual chest xray for medical exam

Y is for Yummy foods I make: According to B I make yummy Buttered Shrimps (which I don't taste while cooking). Fettucini, Tuna salad

Z is for Zodiac sign: Pisces

I'm tagging Tin, Jacque, Marj & Aggie for this one :)

Personalized Cake Topper

2005-08-09T16:21:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I found out the W@W recently got an exclusive distributorship deal from a supplier who does personalized cake toppers. I was so excited because I've been thinking about cake toppers for a while now. I was torn between having a monogram made from flatback swarovskis, but its really pricey to have this custom made. My next option is the personalized cake topper. Having this custom made too is pricey, I don't want to settle with those typical figurines naman...I was almost close to scrapping this idea and not have any cake topper na lang. Lucky for me that Ms. Benz posted their latest find, its cheaper so naturally I inquired right away. Ordering is simple, just pay the full amount (8.5k, introductory price with shipping charges) then send the photos you want to be copied and thats it. It will take roughly a month for them to finish it. I arrange for payment next week. It will be tough finding the right photos for the topper though...hehehe.

Here's a sample of the figurine...

For see the other samples, visit their website here .

Disappointed

2005-08-07T20:38:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

On Disappointing Supplier
I'm extremely disappointed with PRINTED MATTER. I decided to get them to make our Save The Date Magnets because a lot of w@wies have nothing but praises for them (the price is really cheap too). Sadly thats not the case for me. I emailed Phoebe in July 3, 2005 inquiring about their services. She replied promptly naman, so I asked my sister to deposit the down payment to their bank account. I told her from the start that I need to have the STD done before first week of August since my sister in law will be in Manila during that time and she could just bring the items when she comes back here. So when my sister deposited the money I ask her to send the scanned copy of the deposit slip to Phoebe...and she did. I waited for her reply about it but she didn't email me at all. I emailed she about it just to check (I was worried they didn't received the money or something)...still no reply. I emailed her again about this, this time I sent the scanned copy of the deposit slip as well. She replied this time around she replied:

YES, ty, will letyou know when its ready. ;)
-PB

I thought it was a bit unprofessional on their part to keep their clients bugging them for updates. She didn't even said something about why she never replied for my past two emails. I had a bad feeling about this, but I just shrugged it off thinking of all the compliments w@wies are giving them.

I waited for the layout of our STD, on July 21, 2005 She emailed it to me (see previous post for the pic). We found it a bit too pink and girlie, it looked like its meant for a debut. Naturally I asked for another layout. I emailed her right away telling her that we would like a new layout. I'm not the type of client who would bombard suppliers with countless emails and follow ups. I guess I was fortunate that all our suppliers (except PM) doesn't need constant follow ups as all of them did their job so well I didn't have to remind them AT ALL. With work and other stuff I'm doing it sort of slipped my mind and I didn't realized that Phoebe haven't emailed me the layout yet...and its already end of JULY!

I emailed her again on August 1 asking about it and she replied...

Its good you emailed me bk. I sent it last time. I guess you never did get it. Here it is then. Pls email me feedbk as soon as you get it. ty,
PB

What the @#%*! This is outrageous! I mean wouldn't she wonder why I haven't replied about the layout?Its been almost two weeks for crying out loud! And why tell this to me only now when I've emailed her about it. I've been corresponding with other people and they seem to receive my email...and I receive theirs as well. And I told her from the start that I need the STD by first week of August. I just approved the second layout to make things faster I didn't ask for anymore revisions. Mind you I had to email her again twice just to get an answer that it will be ready for pick up of Saturday. That's what bugs me, I know she's busy but I'm busy too. I hate that I had to email her twice or thrice just to get an answer (mind you thats a very short answer lang).

The ending of this, I won't be getting the STD anytime soon. My sister received a message from her yesterday telling her she couldn't meet her halfway because she's busy (she didn't even include in the message how to go to their place, do I really need to ask for everything?). My sister was also occupied buying all the stuff she will send to me yesterday so she didn't have the time either. All this things could have been prevented if only PM were a bit more attentive to their clients. Its sooo frustrating because I'm looking forward to giving this out this week.

I hope in the future they will give attention to their clients abroad as well. I just want to get this over and done with.

Tagged

2005-08-05T23:32:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I've been tagged by fellow w@wies Leah and Alynn(Thanks girls), so here's what I have to say...

1. What are the things you enjoy doing even when there's no one around you?

Bead craft! My latest addiction, I can spend an entire afternoon doing this.
Cross-stitch! I started this hobby when I was in highschool. I can stay at home doing this all day.
Reading! My dad gave me my first book (Nancy Drew Mystery book, I forgot the exact title) when I was in third grade (I think). That started my liking for books. I read all sorts of books, it doesn't have to be written by a nobel prize winner or someone really famous. Right now I'm reading Harry Potter books (after finishing all of Dan Brown's).
Watch TV!Need I say more?

2. What lowers your stress/blood pressure/anxiety level?

Shopping! Whenever I feel bad, irritated, stressed or sad a quick visit to the mall can cheer me up. I buy myself a nice pair of shoes (or two)...

Watching a movie!Keeps my mind off things that bothers me...

3. Tag 5 friends and ask them to post it in theirs.

Joan (my sister)
Karen (my friend)
Adel (my friend)
Jacque (fellow w@wie)
Aggie (another w@wie)

New STD Layout

2005-08-02T19:09:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

After a long wait finally here's the revised layout of our STD. Hmmm...this one looks much better than the first one (Please scroll down to view the first layout). I got the inspiration from one scrapbook layout. What do you think? Feedback/Comments will be greatly appreciated...

A Break

2005-07-30T03:52:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Note: This is not about wedding preps....at all.
WARNING! Do not continue reading this post if you haven't or you are currently reading Harry Potter 5th and 6th book

When the sixth book of Harry Potter came out I thought to myself I ought to start reading if I want to catch up. Since I've watched the movie version of the first three book I decided to start reading the fourth book... The Goblet of Fire. Oh and I loved it soo much that I finish reading it in less than a week (which is record breaking for me). I particularly enjoyed reading about Harry and Sirius Black.I grew fond of him in this book (hmm...but I thought he was nice to Harry after watching The Prisoner of Azkaban). He's like the father Harry never had, imagine living on mostly rats just to stay close to Harry and being to worried and everything. I dread reading the fifth book...The Order of the Phoenix though (I just stopped on page 123 now...and its almost 4am). This is because Sirius will die in this edition. And the sixth book which is the latest...The Half Blood Prince, I dread reading this book as well. Snape killed dumbledore in this edition. Poor Harry losing everyone he loved the most. Of course I will continue to read (and finish) book 5 & 6.

My Bead Experience

2005-07-29T23:00:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I haven't updated this blog for a while...er I've been busy. I find myself doing loads of things lately. Just to recap what happened this week...

Monday
I attended a 2 hour bead craft session at Bead Hub called "Bead Experience" which is a presentation (discussion) about the different techniques in bead craft. Although it wasn't hands on I've learned a lot of tips (which I tried when I got home). I had fun...it could have been perfect if not for one of the participants. She was really annoying! She constantly interrupt the lecturer and ask questions. One or two questions coming from the same person is okay. Five questions maybe I can put up with...but this terribly annoying girl keep pestering the lecturer every five minutes or so. And mind she asked questions totally not relevant to what we were discussing. For example she asked the lecturer, " we live near the see, how should I take care of my jewellery then?" Why the hell would she ask that???!!! I know we were talking about art clay (which will turn into silver once you fired it) but who the hell cares if she lives by the sea? She irritated me out of my wits I tell you. It doesn't help that she sat beside the lecturer either, the poor fellow can't ignore her at all. The more I looked at her the more I got annoyed, with her eyes wide open and her mouth wide open as well...looking very surprised with each topic we discuss. She reminded me of a dog very eager to play "fetch" without the wagging tail and tongue sticking out of her opened mouth. I just have to vent because she was just soooo annoying. Mind you the presentation was suppose to be only two hours but with all her stupid questions she was able to drag it to three hours. Oh after the session she continued to ask her freaking questions. I didn't have the chance to personally thank the lecturer for such an informative presentation. I just couldn't stand her anymore. So when one of the girls said goodbye I followed her. At the lift I found out that I wasn't the only who got irritated. There was this one lady who said she talked too much. I don't know maybe she likes to draw attention to herself, I don't really care. I hope if I choose to attend a class she won't be my classmate. I may not be able to restrain myself from telling her to shut up...

Lovely Cakes

2005-07-24T23:45:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I can't help but admire these pretty cakes...

Cakes: Guide to Shapes

2005-07-24T13:52:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

We will have a round five tier cake for our wedding (from the famous Alex Franco). I have always been fascinated with square cakes though...

Your wedding cake can be inspired by anything -- from the embroidery on your wedding gown to your mother’s china pattern. Choose something that reflects your personality, the season, or a recurring theme throughout your wedding. Today, the possibilities for cake shapes, colors, and details are as endless as your imagination. Cakes start as low as two tiers and climb as high as eight (entirely too many from our standpoint, even if you are inviting half of Florida). Shapes range from the traditional round -- each tier uniform with the one below it -- to the unusually scalloped, angled, twisted, or turned. It’s imperative to remember that when choosing a cake style, your best bet is to amp up only one part of the confection: If the color is bold, keep the shape simple; if the design is creative, keep the colors soft and consistent. Here's our guide to getting started, by finding a cake shape that suits your tastes.

Round
Because of its popularity, this shape is considered the king of all cakes. While some may consider basic round tiers to be boring, the simplicity and elegance make a round cake the perfect backdrop for interesting textures and colors. Floral-embossed fondant with yellow “lids” and sugar-paste hydrangea.

Square
A square cake, with its sharp lines and angles, always makes a modern statement. Soften the hard edges with elegant touches like flowers, pastel colors, and paper-thin embellishments. Rolled white fondant square cake with double-layer sugar-paste squares dotted with sugar pearls.

Petaled
Sometimes referred to as scalloped, this shape has a flowerlike, sculpted appearance. Maintain softness with decorations that have a light touch -- we love a little monochromatic texture (each tier with its own motif) to showcase the shape, but with a burst of color as the crowning glory. White fondant cake with sugar-paste stitching accents and squiggles, topped with sugar roses and sweet peas.

Table Cake
This small wonder takes the place of a traditional centerpiece, the idea being that each table gets its own cake, complete with a table number. The vase and sweet peas on top remove as one piece so that a lucky guest can walk away with a long-lasting token of the wedding. White fondant cake with sugar-paste sweet-pea swags and lacelike appliques topped with a vase filled with sugar sweet peas.

Hexagonal
This six-sided wonder is the creative answer to a classic square cake. With such a striking appearance, you’ll want to keep the adornment clean and simple -- the shape itself brings a lot to the table even without any decoration. White fondant with raised floral appliques, sugar-paste green cymbidium orchids, and a yellow-pearl trim.

Off-kilter
We consider this cake a square with an attitude -- each tier is turned 45 degrees. The result is the appearance of a cake turning on its own axis, while the slight spin allows for more surface area on which to perch flowers. Fondant cake dressed with sugarpaste roses, hydrangea, and gift-box ribbon

--The Knot

Cakes: A World Tour of Traditions

2005-07-24T13:49:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I found this article while surfing the net for ideas...I thought it would be nice to share.

To western brides and grooms, the wedding cake has symbolized good fortune, purity, and sweetness for the couple's future. White stacked tiers, elaborately surrounded by flowers, fruit, or fancy frosting, have been known to represent the ideal confection. But wedding customs and rituals vary significantly around the globe, and the wedding cake is no exception. Couples from the far corners of the earth may share dramatically different experiences. Here's a roundup of our favorite wedding cake traditions.

ASIA
Japan: The Japanese follow a very sneaky tradition: they pose imposter cakes as the real deal. Made of artificial rubber, these faux confections are iced with wax -- and even feature a slot for the bride and groom to insert a knife. Believe it or not, some models have even been known to produce a puff of steam! Other dupes consist of elaborately frosted Styrofoam dummy cakes. While the imposters are just for show, sheet cakes hiding out in the kitchen are cut and served to guests.

Korea: Many American-style wedding cakes would be considered too sweet for Koreans. They opt instead for a cake of ground steamed rice covered in red bean powder. A tiered sponge cake covered in nondairy whipped cream is also a popular treat.

China: The Chinese play it up big with an enormous, multilayered confection: the abundant layers symbolize a ladder of success.

BRITISH ISLES
Britain: Even though the Americanized version of the wedding cake originated in Europe, many different countries in the region practice their own traditions. In Britain, for example, a fanciful fruitcake takes center stage: cognac-soaked dates, prunes, raisins, currants, and orange peel are combined in a moist cake, which can be covered in marzipan, brandy butter, or fondant.

Ireland and Scotland: Fruitcakes are also popular in Ireland and Scotland, where the heady, three-tiered confection is laced with bourbon, brandy, or whiskey and each layer is spread with almond paste.

CARIBBEAN ISLANDS
Caribbean: Caribbean couples, too, traditionally feast on fruitcakes. Dark cake laced with dried fruits and sherry, wine, or rum is a flavorful offering to guests.

Bermuda: In Bermuda, small cedar saplings top silver-leafed wedding cakes: Said to symbolize the couple's growing love, the tender sapling is replanted after the ceremony.

West Indies: Party guests in the West Indies pay for a lucky peek at the wedding cake hidden under a fine white tablecloth. Here a rum-laced fruitcake is the sweet of choice.

CENTRAL EUROPE
Germany: Though American-style wedding cakes are slowly infiltrating Europe, countries such as Germany are hanging on to their own traditions. A rich nut or genoise sponge cake is a popular choice, laced with liqueur or syrup and usually filled with jam, spread with marzipan or nougat, and covered in fondant or ganache. Using artificial coloring is a major faux pas.

France: And though the French have tried to stake their claim in inventing the wedding cake as we know it today, their croquembouche is nothing to sneeze at -- these delectable, cream-filled pastries are coated in caramel and formed into a tall pyramid.

EASTERN EUROPE
Lithuania: Now here's an interesting twist on the traditional wedding cake: a cookie-like pastry shaped into a Christmas tree. It's the lucky Lithuanians who enjoy this delicacy. Baked to a sunny yellow hue, the pastry, called a sakotis, displays fresh flowers and herbs protruding from the top peak.

Ukraine: Ukrainian couples share a type of wedding bread known as Korovai. Decorated with designs representing eternity and the joining of the two families, the bread is considered a sacred part of the wedding feast.

NORTHERN EUROPE
Norway: Shying away from cake altogether, Norwegians serve brudlaupskling, a type of wedding bread first developed when white flour was a rarity on farms in Norway. Any food containing wheat was highly prized, so the wedding bread was considered a true treat. Topped with cheese, cream, and syrup, this unique bread is folded over and cut into small squares.

Denmark: The Danish are known to feast upon cornucopia cake. Made of almond cake and marzipan, the ring-shaped confection is decorated with pastilage and filled in the center with candy, almond cakes, fresh fruit, or sorbet. Sometimes marzipan portraits of the bride and groom are attached to the outside of the cake.

Iceland: Icelanders enjoy kransakaka. Made up of ring-shaped almond pastries piled on top of one another to form a pyramid, the hollow center of the tower is filled with fine chocolates or candies.

THE MEDITERRANEAN
Italy: No Italian wedding would be complete with out zuppa inglese. Scrumptiously filled with chocolate custard, vanilla custard, rum cream and fruit, tiers of pound cake are elaborately trimmed with flower blooms of royal icing.

Greece: The traditional rendition of a Greek wedding cake consists of honey, sesame seed, and quince, which is said to symbolize the couple's enduring commitment to each other. Sourdough wedding bread decorated with beads and blossoms is also a traditional treat. These days, most Greek couples prefer a flourless almond cake, which is filled with vanilla custard and fruit, and covered in sliced almonds.

-- Sarah Lacamoire, The Knot

Our SDD Magnets

2005-07-21T19:33:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

At last I finally saw our SDD magnet sample layout. Hmmm...I think it needs little changes here and there though...but I think its pretty...a bit too sweet...too girlie but pretty. Have to do something with the colors but I like the design.

Me, myself and I

2005-07-20T22:19:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I took two days off from work and today is the last day. I must say I enjoyed the break. It gave me more time to do the things I actually love to do. I'm sooo not looking forward to coming to work tomorrow.

*********
Thank goodness I received an email from Phoebe notifying me that they have received our payment already. Now all I have to do is wait for the sample layouts, I'm sooo excited.

*********
Cord update: I finished half of our wedding cord this afternoon. I'm not really sure what's the standard length for a cord so I'm gonna ask my sister to buy me the usual white cord so I can base the length to it. I have to ask her to buy me more austrian swarovski since I've used up all I have. I'm happy with the design, its actually very simple...what makes it really pretty are the crystals...its sparkling. The only downside is its a bit heavy...but I'm sure we'll manage.

*********
My coord will be out of town until August 2. He will take a break muna. Anyway I think we've got evertyhing covered so its going to be just fine. Besides I think he needs some time off (like me...I seriously need more break).

Nothing much

2005-07-19T14:32:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

*********
Hmmm...I haven't heard anything from Phoebe yet. I asked my sister to deposit the downpayment on their bank account last week. She emailed her the scanned copy of the deposit slip as well. I emailed her twice but still I haven't heard from her though, I was hoping I could an email from her acknowledging that she has received the payment or the sister's email but so far no response yet...oh well

Our invite layout

2005-07-18T21:51:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I just received the copy of the sample invite layout from my coord. It's not yet the invite itself just the text, but still I was extremely happy to see it. Here it is...

Here's another one...

2005-07-17T19:14:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I decided to take a short break from my bead craft and tried another possible hobby (as if I have a lot of time in my hands), I ventured into Digital Scrapbooking just for fun. I realized I have to do the online SDD for our friends and relatives who won't receive the SDD magnets I will get from Printed Matter (speaking of PM, Phoebe haven't replied to me yet...my sister emailed her the copy of the deposit slip last Friday pa). It was difficult to choose from hundreds among hundreds of templates, papers, embellishments...the works. I was able to finish two simple layouts...

I will start making the SDD and try to come up with a decent layout for the guest sheets. So this will be another hobby of mine...at least I won't spend anything on this one. Speaking of hobbies, I just remember some of my past time back when I was a child up to now...

Crochet - when I was in 3rd grade (I don't even know why I liked that in such an early age), I saw my aunt doing this and asked her to teach me.

Knitting - when I was in 6th grade, this was during my summer vacation...I think I was able to finish a sweater.

Cross stitching - when I was a junior in highschool. This is one hobby I will continue to do until I can hold a needle and I can see the holes in the aida cloth. I saw a friend of mine doing this and one day I decided to try it for myself, no I didn't ask her to teach me. I browsed some books and learned about back stitch, half stitch and french knot on my own. I remembered staying up until 3am on a school night doing this (a lot of scolding from my mom the following day). I stop cross stitching from time to time but I always go back to this craft.

Bead craft - just recently, I never expected preparing for our wedding would make me try out this craft. So much for self study, I enrolled myself for a Bead Experience presentation which will be on the 25th (I'm so excited). This hobby is a bit expensive though, the swarovski alone is a bit pricey...even more if I decide to use gemstones.

Okay so I guess that's it...

Post Anniv Kwento...and updates

2005-07-16T00:05:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Yesterday we celebrated our anniversary...the day B and I first met. We made a promise weeks ago that we won't buy each other any present this year since we're getting married this December. We agreed we'll just have dinner na lang. So I didn't buy him any present, thinking we won't buy me anything as well. No matter how much I wanted I stick to our plan...no gifts, just dinner. I was busy reviewing exam papers from our school in Vietnam when I saw a messenger with flowers on his hand approaching our main door....and it was for me. Hmmm...the messenger must have thought that I'm a crazy person coz I couldn't stop smiling. The flowers came with a necklace and a card that says...

For yesterday's memories
Today's love
And tomorrow's dreams...
I love you

Babe

Awww he's so sweet...I was really surprised and touched. (Thanks B...I luv you!). And next thing that came to my mind...oh my I didn't buy him anything. Oh well I still didn't get him anything (I feel guilty though). We had dinner at Kuali afterwards.

*******
In other news, I'm waiting for the layout of our save the date cards from Printed Matter. My sister paid the downpayment yesterday so I'm hoping I could see the layout next week...I can't wait.

Ms. Merlene is still out of the country. She's in Paris now but we still communicated through email. I changed the design of the back of my gown, she will make the necessary changes when she gets home and will give me the new sketch. Two of our bridesmaids had their first fitting last Saturday (I feel a bit envious as I won't see my gown until a few weeks before the wedding pa). We asked her to make matching pouches for the MOH and bridesmaids (there's a minimal charge for this). My mom and two of the secondary sponsors will have their measurement taking on the 30th.

I got news from Palms regarding our menu. Some of the changes I want requires us to pay addtional 60+ to 180+ per person. I opted not to get the one with additional charge, my coord adviced me that the food from the standard package is pretty good already so we need not make drastic changes. Palms was amiable to our requests and I'm grateful. At least we could still get almost all the food we want...plus more at no additional charge.

My coord will meet with Ms. Gina of Royal Flower Shoppe for the mockup of our centerpieces. Since I won't be there to personally see the arrangements my ever reliable coord will take pictures for me. I really don't want to see and gerberas or mums on the entourage and reception flowers. I hope this request won't compromise the beauty of our bouquets or centerpieces.

New Theme: Candles and Pearls

Supplier Payment Tracking

2005-07-10T13:36:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

So with only five months to go before the BIG DAY it is evident that we should start dealing with supplier payments. We have already paid downpayments/reservation fees to most of our suppliers, so in months to come we will pay the balance.

Here's our list:
Church: St. James The Great Parish
Status: 50% downpayment paid,
Balance due on

Reception: The Palms Country Club
Status: Reservation fee paid, 50% downpayment to be paid on Sept. 1, 2005
Balance due on

Coordinator: Ernest Pascual of Events! Events!
Status: 50% downpayment paid
Balance due on

Photographer/Videographer: Ariel Javelosa Photography
Status: 25% downpayment paid, 50% downpayment to be paid on
Balance due on

Designer (Bride & Entourage): Merlene Mercelo
Status: 50% downpayment paid
Balance due on

Cake: Alex Franco Cakes
Status: Full amount to be paid on

Rings: Tak King Jewellery International
Status: Downpayment paid
Balance due on

Invitation: Amis Print
Status: 50% downpayment paid
Balance due on:

Hair & Makeup: Prady of Fringe & Co
Status: reservation fee paid
Balance due on

Music/Entertainment: Leggiero Strings
Status: 50% downpayment paid
Balance due on

Florist (Entourage & Reception) : Royal Flower Shoppe
Status: pending payment
Balance due on

Florist (Church): Mother Butler
Status: 50% downpayment paid
Balance due on

Save the date cards: Printed Matter
Status: pending payment
Balance due on

Souvenirs (1st set): Excel Frames & Decord
Status: pending payment
Balance due on

*******
Our wedding theme was orginally Romantic Candlelight Retreat, I still love this idea since I like candles a lot. I'm also thinking of giving away votive candles or scented candles for our 2nd set of souvenirs. But lately I find myself liking pearls a lot as well. So I would include it to our theme. It would be more like "candles and pearls theme". I plan to incorporate the pearls in our misalette covers, cord and centerpieces...the change would actually be subtle but elegant.

*******
On a non-wedding related note...B is scolding me a bit because my mobile phone will went sky high this month...I've been making a lot of overseas call because I was asking my sister to buy stuff for me...plus the chitchat hence the bill. Oh well...

More Update

2005-07-09T22:23:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

We might me getting half our our souvenirs from Excel Frames & Decors. I've emailed them already and the prices of their item is quite reasonable naman. I just need to get a sample of the items we like so I could determine if the quality is good. Sometimes pictures can be deceiving so I have to see the items talaga. Maybe I could ask them to send it to me here.I'm thinking of getting two different souvenirs so I'm still scouting for souvenirs. We are expecting around 200 guests so my coord suggested that we should have around 125pcs of souvenirs.

Am I addicted to beads?

This is my bead kit...
I've already started doing our cord...the rest of my materials will be arriving tomorrow (thanks to a friend of ours) and I can't wait to begin my latest project. This one I have to finish since its a bit expensive as compared to my failed SDD card project.

OMG only five months to go!

2005-07-07T20:05:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I can't believe its already July. I feel like I still have so much to do and so little time. I have a deadline this month...I have to give the final list of the entourage and the names of the principal sponsors to my coord. The production of the invites have to start na by August since our invitation design requires more production time. This one really concerns me, I don't want the invites to be delayed because we failed to turn over the list and invite wordings. Hope we could finish this on time...I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

I'm still waiting for the reply of the AE of Palms about our menu. I hope they will approved our revised menu.

Latest update...
I finally decided to get our save the date magnets from Printed Matter. Since I'm crazy over beads right now I've forgotten all about the SDD (tsk tsk tsk another failed project...hehehe). I'm beginning to think B is right about me having so many projects that I start and halfway lose interest. Anyway, I emailed Phoebe about the SDD...have to deposit the DP on their bank account (I will ask my dear sister to do this for me). She will email me the layouts which she based on the pics I sent her. She said it will be ready for production once I I have approved the design. Our target date for release is first week of August.

I asked my sister to buy materials for our DIY cord and she went to the shop today. She was able to purchase most of the stuff I wanted except for the champagne colored swarovskis...she was worried what they have in the shop is too dark for my liking. So instead of getting the wrong shade we decided to get the clear ones na lang...you won't go wrong with that. I'm sooo excited I want to start making our cord na. I will be using deep pink austrian swarovski with either cream fresh sea water pearls or clear austrian swarovski. I'm still undecided whether to use eye pins or nylon to connect all the crystals. I've yet to find an accent piece for the center of the cord. Hmmm...if I'm not able to update our blog you know what I'm doing...

Checklist

2005-07-05T00:08:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Thanks to Leah I remembered we have a "checklist" of things we need to do pala. I've forgotten all about it since I created another blog for this. I guess I need to update it every month na rin. Imagine how freaked out I'll be if I've forgotten to do something important.

Things to do this month:
Finalize entourage list - almost done, actually I'm just waiting for B's list. I completed mine a long time ago (hehehe maybe even before we started the wedding preps pa).

Finish guest list - I have a draft guest list na, we just have to check with our parents who they want to invite as well

Send out Save the Date Cards - its taking me forever to finish this one

Start doing DIY cord - I asked my sister to buy materials from me in Manila. If I'm going to buy here its sooo expensive

Choose invitation wordings

I'll fix muna our official checklist...for the mean time this will do.

Blooms and petals...

2005-06-30T22:17:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I got good news from my coord tonight. My proposed budget for the entourage and reception flowers were already approved. I couldn't be happier. The first proposal was a bit too steep for us. We don't want to scrimp on flowers but we don't want to spend so much either so I adjusted everything from the previous proposal and created a new one that will fit our budget. So here's the list of what we're getting from Ms. Gina...

Bridal bouquet - hand tied
1 MOH bouquet - hand tied
5 Bridesmaids - nosegay bouquet
3 Secondary sponsor wristler
3 Flower girls - pomander with headpiece
9 Female Principal Sponsors - small nosegay bouquet
2 Mothers - hand tied
1 Grandmother's corsage

Others:
Throw away bouquet
Loose petals
Flowers and fruits for offering

Flowers to be used: Roses, Carnations, Tulips, Calla lillies, Alstromeria
(Strictly no gerberas and mums for the entourage and reception flowers)
Fillers: Berries
Colors: Shades of Pink

All about beads...again

2005-06-29T00:21:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I finally uploaded the pics of the bracelets I made. It took me two nights to finish these...anyway, I love them all. I will make more designs soon...

For more pics please click the picture above.

Beads and other things..

2005-06-25T19:45:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I'm really into beads now. I just finished my first bracelet project this afternoon...phew. I spent two hours at the bead shop because I can't make up my mind on what type of bead to use, what color, what size...its really not a good idea to go there without a specific design in mind. But then again there's a wide variety of beads to choose so its really confusing.
If you would like to see the bracelet, please go here. Its under the My First DIY folder.

*********
I'm currently busy with the guest list and table layout. This is quite stressful as it is important to plan the layout well so guests would enjoy themselves (or at least feel comfortable and not alienated) during the reception.

*********
We haven't decided on which menu to choose yet.

How Many More Years?

2005-06-24T00:25:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I got interested when I read about LifeClock - DeathClock on Leah's blog so I decided to try it myself. Here's my result:

YOUR LIFECLOCK RESULTS

You are born on: 18-03-1982

Given your current habits, you are likely to die on: 12/18/2061

That is in:
56 Years
678 Months
20632 Days
495156 Hours
29709335 Minutes
1782560073 Seconds

You will be 79 Years Old.

I guess if this is true I have enjoyed my life na by then...but no one knows whats in store for us in the future right...thats why I'd like to think that I've lived my life the way I wanted...without hesitations nor regret. I don't what to look back and see that I've missed out on a lot of things because I cared about other people's expectations so much and not what I really wanted. Life is too short and you only get to live once...so I try to make the most out of it.

Monograms...

2005-06-21T22:34:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Here are some of the monogram that my coord did for us...I got super excited tuloy... this will be used on the invitations, guest book, thank you cards, programme cards, etal.

For larger pics please go here.

Little Updates

2005-06-20T21:28:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Today mommy (B's mom) and Mariel, one of our flower girls had their measurement taking at Ms. Merlene's shop. My mom was suppose to go too but it was such a last minute thing that she couldn't make it. Ms. Merlene kasi is going abroad to see her other clients so she will go gone for more than a month I think. Mommy and the kids (B's nephews) will come here na next month so I was worried Merlene won't be back by then so I quickly sms my coord to try to schedule their measurement taking na (this was last Friday). I'm just glad they're both nice and accomodating considering it was such a short notice. I haven't seen the design of the gown yet but I know its going to be lovely.

Inspiration Hairstyles

2005-06-19T15:16:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I don't think I will be comfortable having an "up-do" on my wedding day. These are some of the hairstyles I like...

I'm not sure what hair accessory will go this type of hairstyle though...

Mad about beads

2005-06-15T21:05:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Here's the first rosary I was able to finish...I definitely need to practice more...

To view larger pics please go here.

My First DIY

2005-06-13T23:27:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

After some reading I went to a local bead shop/craft store to buy the materials I need. Armed with little knowledge about wire, beads, findings I was able to source out the things I will use. It wasnt easy considering there are hundreds of designs, shapes, colors of beads to choose from. And there's a variety of wires available as well. I learned a lot from reading books about bead jewelry, I'm glad I did some research first.

If you want to see other shots of the necklace you can go here

Lessons I've learned so far (base on my own experience)...
* Never go to a craft store/bead shop without a specific design in mind, you'll get confuse with hundreds of beads before your eyes.
* When you need an eighteen gauge wire don't buy the twenty four gauge one...completely different.
* Buy cheap beads first, for practice.
* Know the size of the beads you need.
* A little research beforehand will come in handy...I never knew what are "findings" in the bead craft world before I read some books.

Books...

2005-06-12T20:50:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

B and I went to the library today...I'm sooo glad I found books about beading! I'm seriously considering making our cord na lang (nahawa yata ako kay Jacque). Oh and there's a cafe too so we got ourselves a cheesecake and coffee...what a nice way to spend Sunday afternoon with B

Over flowing Ideas...

2005-06-07T22:58:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

I've been comtemplating lately on the things that we've accomplished so far...yes we've booked our major suppliers but I still feel there's a lot that needs to be done. With six months to go before the "Big Day" the nitty gritty part of the wedding preps begins. I find myself changing my mind about some things I was sooo sure I absolutely love months ago. I wonder if anyone is in this same predicament? I have sooo many ideas in my mind I don't know what to make of them. This is one of the most important day in me and B's life, of course I want to make it beautiful and memorable. Oh well...enough with being mushy. ..

Back to wedding preps...brace yourselves people OC bride at work.

What Album to Use?

2005-06-05T16:15:00.000+08:00

I was searching the net for more wedding ideas when I came across this article about photo albums...

What album to choose?

The world is full of photo albums. But to obtain the highest quality wedding albums, one must use the services of a qualified professional photographer. Only through a professional photographer are high quality professional bridal and parents albums made available.

What is a professional album?

Perhaps it is easier to describe what a professional album is not. It is not an inexpensive 3 ring 100 page magnetic book, a postbound scrapbook, or a simple 3 1/2x5 or 4x6 pocket style camera store album. Rather, it is an album that accepts all sizes of professional prints from 10x10 to 4x5 (or 3 1/2x5), mounted into a matted page, and viewed without the need to turn the album sideways.

Acetate or open viewing?

The best professional albums offer open, reversible viewing of your photos - not covered by an acetate material. Acetate covering creates glare and can cause photo discoloration depending upon the acetate used. Over time, chemical migration between the photos and certain types of acetates is not uncommon. To be sure, insist on non-acetate, open viewing pages and mats. Also insist on reversibility of the photos and mats so that a vertical and horizontal photo can be viewed from the same direction - without having to turn the album sideways.

Types of professional album binders

Generally there are 3 types of bindings available. In low end professional, one can find postbound and pin hinge (piano hinge page assembly), where the pages themselves make up the spine of the album. Generally these binders come with taped edges and some type of acetate covered pages. In better studios, one can find a much more professional type album - one that looks like a bound book. A one piece cover is the most sturdy of all albums. It is rare that an album in this category would have anything but open viewing, non-acetate, reversible pages.

Bound book types

Two types of bound book type albums are available through high end professional studios. One is an actual library book where the pages are custom designed and are bound into the book's spline. Generally these albums are the most expensive even though some of their covers may be only of a "pigskin" quiality leather. Delivery time is another factor. Expect 6-16 weeks delivery for a custom, library bound album. Also they are generally quite expensive. The second type of book has a one piece cover that accepts individual pages into its spine recievers. If the page edges are gilded gold or silver, it is hard to tell this album from a fully bound book since both have an elegant block look to them.

June na!!!!

2005-06-04T22:04:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Oh my time flies talaga...the first week of June passed by just like that...I have to get a lot of things done by this month. I'm not in panic mode pa naman but I just want to be prepared ahead of time. My coord informed me that it would be better if we could give Amis Print the final list of the principal sponsors, entourage and the wordings for the invites by August. That gives me almost two months din to prepare. I have to talk to my folks about the PS pa since di pa kumpleto yung list namin. For the entourage naman I have completed the list of female abays a long time ago pa but B's list is not yet complete. Kasi naman most of his friends works/lives abroad na so we're not sure if they can come home in time for the wedding. And then there's drafting the dreaded guest list...this task is really difficult, but I have to start doing this now.

Things I have to finish this month (or should I say "hope to finish"):
1. Finish and distribute Save The Date Cards to the principal sponsors.
2. Draft the guest list
3. Hire Strings (String Minstrels or Leggiero?)
4. Decide on the souvenir

*********
I've emailed my coord about the change in my gown...I decided not to have an organza overlay for my gown...oh well I've yet to get Merlene's feedback on this one. They have to check kasi the progress of the gown. In the end even if I have to pay for the organza fabric (there was a minimal charge for the organza overlay that I asked) I would still have it removed...

Save the Date Card...Up Close

2005-06-01T21:24:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Take a closer look at our save the date cards...

Our Save The Date Cards

2005-06-01T21:22:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

This is B's idea for our save the date card...

This is my idea for our save the date card

Misalette Cover Designs

2005-06-01T21:04:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

These are some of the misalette cover designs that my friend Gina made for our misalette...we haven't decided yet which is the winning design (as you can see its kinda hard to pick one).

How about you, which design do you like the most?

Another Gown for me?

2005-05-29T20:37:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

This is the design of a gown Merlene will also do for me(no this is not my bridal gown)...its actually included in the package we got from her. The color will be in deep pink I think. I'm still not sure about this design though...

Fabric Swatches

2005-05-29T16:06:00.000+08:00

Fabric Swatches

My Mood:

I was able to get these swatches from Merlene when we were in Manila. Our motif is Pink and Champagne but Pink will be the dominant color and Champagne will be just accent. I'm thinking since our entourage will be wearing pink gowns, their flowers should be champagne in color. Babe also suggested (yup my hubby has ideas too!) that the female principal sponsors could wear champagne coloured dresses\gowns. I asked Merlene for fabric swatches too. We will be sending it to them together with the save the date cards (which I hope to finish this week).

Gown Sketches

2005-05-29T15:35:00.000+08:00

My Mood:

Gown Sketches

Here's the GOWN SKETCHES for the entourage from Merlene Mercelo

I must say I really like her work...she's also very nice and accomodating. She personally attended to me and friends when we had our fittings and measurement taking.

Bridal Bouquet

2005-05-29T10:34:00.000+08:00

Bridal Bouquet

Some ideas for my bouquet

12 Tips for your Fairytale Wedding Day

2005-05-29T10:29:00.000+08:00

12 Tips for your Fairytale Wedding Day

The following items are just little things that you may not think of in all of the hustle and bustle of getting ready for the big day…

1. Get a good night sleep; and if you don't bring eye drops to whiten the eyes.

2. If you are planning on having any dental work performed, please try to have it done at least one week before the wedding…this should allow plenty of time for any gum swelling or bleeding to heal.

3. Don't forget to eat something before everything gets crazy, you will need the fuel to get through the day!!!!

4. If the Groom is planning to have his haircut before the wedding, please arrange to do so at least one week before the day of the ceremony…a fresh haircut will look much shorter in photographs, a weeks growth will look normal.

5. Your make-up should be sheer or classic mattes in neutral tones, applied in layers so that it will last all day. (Don't forget powder and lipstick, it should be brought with you to the photo session.)

6. Don't forget to breath, and don't lock your knees…you will pass out!!!

7. Please have someone who will be in charge of getting both of you from place to place, and getting your stuff from place to place: let someone else do the worrying for you—It Is Your Wedding Day!

8. While you are being photographed, you may be asked to stand or position yourself in a way that feels strange…it will not look strange in the final image.

9. Most of us are not used to being followed around with a camera all day-enjoy it, you are the center of attention.

10. Make sure that you have all of the stuff that you need before you leave for where ever it is that you are getting dressed, it is a good idea to make a list—and check it twice.

11. Being nervous is part of the experience, cherish the moment, and don't lose focus of what the day is about.

12. Relax and enjoy yourself, and let the day happen as is it is supposed to happen.

Source: BrideIncharge

Bridesmaids: Their Duties In Detail

2005-05-29T00:52:00.000+08:00

Bridesmaids: Their Duties In Detail

The bridesmaid is an integral part of any wedding, on hand to comfort, console, multi-task, and party hearty at all bridal event(s). Whether it's your first bridesmaid gig or your fiftieth, here's a cheat sheet of your to-dos:

Offer to help with pre-wedding tasks. Try to be specific when you volunteer. For example, say, "Would you like me to help you shop for bridesmaid dresses/stuff invitations/pack for the honeymoon?" instead of just, "What can I do?"

Scout out bridesmaid dresses, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories. Pay for the entire ensemble. (Break in your shoes before the wedding day -- this can minimize slipping, blisters, and aching tootsies.)

Help to plan, co-host, and pay for the shower and bachelorette party with other bridesmaids.

If the maid/matron of honor isn't already handling this task, keep a record of all the gifts received at various parties and showers (so that the bride/couple can write thank-you notes); maintain RSVP lists.

Attend ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. (Keep abreast of all pre-wedding parties, and go to as many as possible.)

Run last-minute errands. On the day of the wedding, be on hand to confirm flower delivery times, meet and greet the ceremony officiant, or satisfy junk food cravings.

Stand in the receiving line at the bride's request.

Serve as auxiliary hostess at the reception by introducing guests, making sure they know where the bar is located, and inviting them to sign the guest book.

Hit the dance floor when the music kicks in. Dance with groomsmen during the formal first-dance sequence. Also, be on the lookout for toe-tapping guests who might need encouragement and/or a dance partner.

Give the maid/matron of honor a break by helping to carry the bride's train whenever necessary. Bustle the train before dancing begins, and be ready to help fix it if it comes unhooked. Accompany the bride on visits to the restroom, if asked.

Purchase a wedding present perhaps with one of the other bridesmaids. This provides more buying power, and two heads are better than one when it comes to gift ideas. Sometimes the entire bridesmaid troupe pitches in for one knock-her-socks-off wedding gift.

Be a trooper, no matter how stressful the ordeal becomes. Try not to complain about the bridesmaid dress -- even if the color is horrendous. Be gracious and tactful.

Provide plenty of emotional support during the planning and on the wedding day.

Source: The Knot

What Kind of Bride 2

2005-05-23T22:48:00.000+08:00

What Kind of Bride 2

Another quiz...same result...

You Will Be a Traditional Bride!

You're the type of girl who is feminine, old fashioned, and totally traditional. You've been dreaming of your wedding day since you were young And you can't wait to be a princess in your big white gown. It's likely that you'll have a big family wedding and take your husband's name. While a huge affair will be fun, just don't go all Bridezilla about the color of your napkins!

What Kind of Bride Will You Be? Take This Quiz :-)
Find the Love of Your Life
(and More Love Quizzes) at Your New Romance.

Vesak Day

2005-05-23T17:20:00.000+08:00

Vesak Day

The festival celebrated with great ceremonial ritual by Buddhists is Vesak Day, which commemorates the birth and enlightenment of Buddha and his entry into Nirvana.

The day starts with chanting of the sutras by saffronclad monks, while devotees visit the temples to pray and meditate and to make offerings. Acts of generosity known as dana are observed by Buddhist organizations and temples. These include the freeing of caged birds and animals, visiting and giving alms to the poor and needy, while some Buddhist youths organize mass blood donation at hospitals. The celebration concludes with a candlelit procession through the streets. Observers as well as devotees are welcome to join in the celebration at Buddhist temples.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 1997 by REGIT Sdn Bhd. All rights reserved.

Its a public holiday here today...which is great of course.

What Kind of Bride

2005-05-23T00:48:00.000+08:00

What kind of Bride Will You Be?

My Mood:

I was surfing the net for wedding ideas when I stumbled upon this quiz... and here's my result...

Congratulations! You are a traditional bride!

What Kind of Bride Will You Be?
brought to you by Quizilla

Take a peak

2005-05-14T22:15:00.000+08:00

Take a peak

My Mood:

My file folder contains:
1.) A folder for my designer
- Bridal gown pictures
- Entourage gowns pictures
- Mother's gown pictures
- Fabric swatches for entourage
- Fabric swatches for female principal sponsors

2.) A folder for our florist
- Pictures of bridal bouquets
- Pictures of centerpiece ideas
- Guidelines for the florist (for the layout, decor, etc)

3.) A folder for the invitation maker
- Pictures of invitations we like

4.) A folder for the jeweller
- Pictures of wedding ring designs we like

5.) List of packages\menus from The Palms Country Club (still reviewing which is the best package). Menu for crew and kids' meals. Wine selection.

6.) Receipts of downpayments made\contracts from suppliers.

Give me a break

2005-05-14T21:20:00.000+08:00

Give me a break

My Mood:

Amidst all our appointments we still managed to spare some time for our loved ones...
I sooo miss going out with my siblings and my friends. Despite our busy schedule we were still able to treat my mom and my sisters to a nice dinner, celebrate Mommy's birthday (Babe's mom), have lunch with my college friends (which happens to be my entourage as well), and I was able to see my highschool friends...one of them is a balikbayan from US.

Wedding preps - Day Three

2005-05-14T17:40:00.000+08:00

Wedding preps - Day Three

My Mood:

May 4 - Wednesday

I'm really excited because we're going to St. James and The Palms today. This is the first time I'm going to see the church and reception venue personally. (Side kwento: My first choice for the church was Manila Cathedral for the church and Manila Hotel for the reception, we actually booked these places nga...but then the wedding didn't push through and I didn't want to make a booking there anymore. I have my heart set on Santuario De San Antonio and either Shangrila or Mandarin Oriental for the reception but I didn't make any inquiries yet. One day I was surfing the net for invitation ideas, one invitation caught my attention...not because of the design of the invite but the church and reception venue of the wedding. I thought to myself Alabang is very near my hubby's parents place so I asked them to visit St. James The Great and The Palms Country Club. They absolutely loved the place. They took pictures for us to see. When we saw the pictures we decided to book both places na). After a short drive we reached St. James...it was beautiful. I'm sooo glad we're getting married here.

We went to the parish office to inquire about the canonical interview and pre cana seminar. We're scheduled for the canonical interview on Thursday, other documents to follow na lang. For our pre cana seminar we can get it in Singapore so is okay na. Our wedding banns will be published in October at our respective parish. My confirmation can be done in December. I'm glad I don't have much to worry about when it comes to documents.

We waited for a while pa for the florist. St. James have their own exclusive florist kasi so we don't have any choice. We just selected a package then paid downpayment.

* * * * * * *

We were a bit late for our appointment with Ms. Gina Galang of Royal Flower Shoppe because Mother Butler showed up late. Good thing we're meeting her at The Palms na. Ms. Gina was really nice naman...again being an OC bride that I am I have pictures of the designs I like for the flowers and centerpieces. Like with the gown, invitation, wedding rings and cakes...I have a separate folder dedicated to flowers. I just showed her then designs I want for the table centerpiece and the bouquets I like for me and the rest of the entourage. It was easier kasi I don't have much knowledge about flowers. She gave me a quote and since we're running late for our next appointment (food tasting at Palms) I told her I'll review her quote and get back to her tomorrow.

* * * * * * *
After our meeting with Ms. Gina we Ernest showed us the ballroom of Palms, since he had several wedding receptions there he knows the place well. We met Ms. Anne the catering manager of Palms. She was really nice too. We discussed everything about the reception to before, while and after the food tasting. I heard that Palms offer great food...and it was!!! We love the food!!! Again we're really happy that we'll be having our wedding reception here. After a nice meal we're off to our next appointment...

* * * * * * *
I went to Prady's salon at Makati for my trial makeup. He attended to me promptly. I liked his makeup style, natural ang light lang. I wanted to have my hair curled din sana like what Eddie Bruan did but he said he'll just fix my hair na lang. Since its a trial makeup I said why not...I'll see which hairstyle suits me best. After my trial makeup we went straight to Ariel Javelosa's studio for our studio prenups...
Ms. Ghie was already there but we had to wait a while since there was a couple having their pictorial before us. After our prenups we were able to get a copy for our Tagaytay and studio pics agad...

So that's day three of our wedding preps...whew we were tired but happy nevertheless...

Wedding Preps - Day Two

2005-05-10T22:04:00.000+08:00

Wedding Preps - Day Two

My Mood:

May 3 - Tuesday
Our first appointment was with our coordinator Ernest. I was really at ease with him, being the jolly person that I am we instantly felt comfortable...he showed me their company profile and some of the weddings they've handled. One mocha frappucino later we're off to our next appointment...

While in the car, I showed Ernest my big pink file folder...inside contains more pink file folders, one for each supplier. Inside the folders I have inserted pictures of the designs I like, and some guidelines for our suppliers. I also showed him the picture of the invite I love.

We went to Amis Print to see some invitation samples, this is the supplier Ernest recommended to us. I've also seen their work in Metro weddings and I like it. When we got there we were handed a container containing hundreds of invitation. We immediately scanned all the invites for designs that appeals to us. Trust me looking at hundreds of envelopes with hopes of finding the perfect one for us wasn't easy at all. We found a dozen or so that we really like...it was really confusing...we didn't know which one to choose. It wasn't until Ernest took out an invite that I knew I found the "our invitation." We stopped looking at other invites and asked for a quote. I knew that type of invitation doesn't come cheap. I wasn't that surprised when Sid gave me the quote...it was double what we alotted for the invitations. Nevertheless I really like the invitation so we still took it. Some people might say that invitations are not the important and that guests will just throw it away...but I know I wont...and I'm really happy with our invitation (though it will cost an arm and a leg...hehehe). I won't show any pics...surprise na lang.

* * * * * * *

After finding the perfect invitation our next appointment is with Ms. Merlene Mercelo for our measurement taking. I'm really excited with this one. When we reached her shop I didn't see her right away, a nice lady directed us to go to the other room and wait for Ms. Merlene. It didn't take long before she showed up armed with a sketch of her design for me. It was beautiful... I love it. She explained to me how my gown will look like, the fabric, the beadwork and all. She gave me eight beadwork designs to choose from, she doesn't repeat beadworks so once I've chosen one it will be "my" beadwork na daw. It was hard to choose I tell you, every single one is just sooo pretty. Anyway she asked me to take the designs home so I could think about it daw. Then came my measurement taking...after that she took Babe's measurements as well. Yup, we're getting his barong and pants from Merlene as well. We thought its the best option we have given don't have much time to scout around and go to another place for this. So aside from my bridal gown, all the twelve female entourage and two moms...Merlene will also be in charge of Babe's barong and pants.

Merlene asked me about my shoes, I told her I'm interested in getting my shoes made by Solea. She told me I need to bring my shoes na daw when I fit the lining of my gown...goodness eh I haven't even scheduled a meeting with Solea. I knew I had know choice but buy a ready made shoes na lang. In a way it was fine because it would be cheaper. Solea quoted me 4k for my shoes kasi, if I buy plain ready made shoes it would only cost about 2k max. The beadworks will be done by Merlene without any charge. So off to Landmark we go, there were a lot of bridal shoes to choose from but it was either they don't have my size or there's something I don't like with the shoes. So we went to SM Makati...still I didn't find anything I like. Our final stop was at Glorietta...and thankfully I found "my" shoes there. I made a mental note that I need to bring the shoes at Merlene's on Saturday.

After our shoe shopping we grab a bite and discussed some of the details about the wedding. We also went to Regalong Pambahay's factory outlet in my attempt to find a souvenir. Instead I found a coffee table decor for our house...hehehe.

Our final appointment was with Mr. Gino Garcia of Tak King International for our wedding rings. We showed him the design we want and he gave us the quote for it. We paid the downpayment before we left.

We called it a day after that...we were tired but I'm really happy with all our accomplishments...

Wedding Preps - Day One

2005-05-09T10:34:00.000+08:00

Wedding Preps - Day One

My Mood:

We're back from a week long stay in Manila...I'm very pleased with our accomplishments. Though we were really tired...we managed to deal with most of our suppliers.

May 1 - Sunday
I was suppose to have my confirmation but since it was labor day, lots of people were protesting. Since San Miguel Church is near Malacanang my coord advised me not to go. So we went to the mall instead. I just attended to my personal needs (meaning manicure, pedicure...the works).

May 2 - Monday
This is the first day of our appointments. First stop Eddie Bruan's salon for my 9:00am first trial makeup. We have difficulties finding the place mainly because there was a lot of one way streets in Makati. Babe made one wrong turn which lead to us going in circles, we finally figured out where we're suppose to go and arrived at Eddie's at around 9:15am. I don't know if the couple we saw there is also a wowie or not...they made a downpayment. The h2b had his hair cut done by Eddie as well. One of Eddie's staff set my hair and another applied the makeup base while Eddie was finishing with another client. I din't want an up-do even for my wedding so I asked them to just curl my hair. I liked my makeup a lot. Although I thought it was not as light as I expected it to be I still felt pretty. His assistant attended me for the payment of the trial and he also gave me their pricing. He said they will charge me an extra 2k because my wedding is in Alabang and they will need to rent a car to be there. I didn't pay a downpayment yet because I have another trial with Prady but promised they will hear from me on Thursday.

We left there around 11:30am and went to Powerplant Mall since I want to check our Solea's shop. I gave Emi, the designer the pictures of the shoes I like and she quoted me 4k for it. I love shoes so I'm willing to spend as much for it. When we got there Emi wasn't around so I talked to her sales assistant, she was nice naman. She told me that if I have a particular shoe design in mind I have to schedule fittings daw which is impossible for me since we live in Singapore. But if I would choose from their shoe design I don't have to schedule fittings. My hubby didn't want me to settle for something off the rack since he knows I already have a design in mind. We just told her we will come back.

After lunch we went to Ariel Javelosa's studio to pick of Ms. Ghie our photographer for the out of town prenups. We browsed their albums (it was quite heavy) and we were happy we booked them, we liked the layout and everything. We left for the prenups shortly. It was extremely hot even in Tagaytay (good thing I have sunblock). We still managed to pose for the camera and had pretty pictures out of it. My makeup was still okay though I have to pat the oil in my face from time to time, the curls of my hair didn't last as long as the makeup as towards the end of the shoot its not as curly...but I still like it. After a couple of hours of posing for the camera...we grab a bite, buy some pasalubong then we were on our way to Manila again. We still have one more meeting.

After dropping off Ms. Ghie at the studio we went to meet Mr. Alex Franco for our cake design. We reached our meeting place on time but he was waiting for us already. Like what all wawies said, he was very nice. We discussed our cake design and everything. Like what I read, he gave us a free sample of his cake. We loved it...our families liked it too. Since Alex is popular aomong wawies I wasn't suprised when he said there's no need for a downpayment.

That's it for day one...

Mad About Shoes

2005-04-22T23:56:00.000+08:00

Mad About Shoes

My Mood:

I've been comtemplating about this for a while now and I finally decided to have custom made bridal shoes. I've already emailed Solea the design that I want and asked for a quote. Their feedback was okay, their price was quite reasonable to me. Well that is considering the amount I have to spend if I buy my shoes here...its still reasonable. And the advantage is that its tailored to fit my requirements and comfort.

Here are the designs I like...

* * * * * * * * *

I'm feeling a bit right now...maybe its because of the margarita...I can't remember how many shots I had. Oh well...

A phone call away

2005-04-21T21:59:00.000+08:00

A phone call away

My Mood:

I just talked to my friend Karen...
She's one of my bridesmaids...I just gave her a quick update on our schedule when we arrive in Manila next week. Being talkative and excited we had a quite long conversation (like we always do), well back in college even if we spend the whole day together at school...when we get home we still talk on the phone and we could spend hours just talking...nothing changed. Eventhough we live here now, I still call her from time to time...whenever I have some news or if I'm pissed and on special occassions like birthdays, christmas, etc... she's just a phone call away.

I'm more excited to go home coz I'll be seeing my family and friends.

Overwhelmed

2005-04-19T23:54:00.000+08:00

Overwhelmed

My Mood:

We're going home na next week! That means I only have one more weekend to put together all the ideas, pictures and guidelines for all the suppliers that we will be meeting. I must say I'm a bit overwhelmed with all the things I still have to do. Its like a few months of preparations squeezed in one week. I must say I'm really thankful to my coordinator for being so efficient...our stay will be maximized because of the schedule he prepared for us.

Our Schedule

2005-04-11T21:50:00.000+08:00

OUR SCHEDULE (AS OF 12 APRIL 2005)

My Mood:

I haven't posted anything here for a while...I've been busy with work and moving house for the past two weeks. Anyway, in about two weeks time we'll be in Manila and I'm sooo excited. We will be very busy but I think its going to be fun as well. We have so much to do and I hope we could accomplish many things.

May 1, Sunday
10: 15 am - Confirmation at San Miguel Parish, Manila (7341271)
Needed: photocopy of birth certificate and baptismal certificate, one sponsor (can be Bong), fee of P600. Be at the church at least an hour before 10:15am for registration and submission of requirements.

May 2, Monday
9:30 am to 11:30nn - Trial Make-up with Eddie Bruan - CONFIRMED
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm - Leave for Tagaytay Shoot
4:00pm - Shooting
8:00pm - Meeting with Alex Franco (Cake) WAITING FOR CONFIRMATION (THIS IS PER REQUEST BY MR. ALEX AS HE WILL HAVE A BUSY WEEK DURING THIS WEEK)

May 3, Tuesday
8:00 am to 9:00 - Meeting with Ernest at Starbucks 6750 Makati CONFIRMED ALREADY
9:00am to 10:30am - Meeting with Invitation Maker (Sid Estrella of Amis Print) - please don’t forget to bring a soft copy of the invitation wording and entourage members as well as their assignments if you wish them to be part of your wedding invites. CONFIRMED ALREADY
11:00 am to 12nn - Meeting with Marlene Marcelo (8903650, 7298848) - suggest that gown with detachable train to be made) CONFIRMED ALREADY
2:00pm - Meeting with Gino (Takking Wedding Rings), Shaw Blvd. WAITING FOR CONFIRMATION

May 4, Wednesday
9: 00 am - St. James the Great Church
10:00 am to 11:00 am - Meeting with Florist (Gina Galang of Royal Flower Shoppe) – in Palms Country Club CONFIRMED ALREADY
11:00 am - The Palms Country Club CONFIRMED ALREADY
3:00 pm - Trial Make-up with Prady CONFIRMED ALREADY
5:00 pm - Photo Shoot at Ariel Javelosa Studio (Mandaluyong) CONFIRMED ALREADY

May 7, Saturday
10: 00 am - Fitting of the lining with Marlene, together with the entourage members – please relay the information to your entourage members regarding measurement taking on this day.
2:00 pm - Meeting with Cord Maker, WAITING FOR CONFIRMATION

Cleina's Christening

2005-03-27T19:20:00.000+08:00

Cleina's Baptism

Celebrating Cleina's Baptism
Today this cute baby of Clent and Gina was baptized at St. Vincent De Paul Church.

Invitations: Top 6 Trends

2005-03-25T10:34:00.000+08:00

Invitations: Top 6 Trends

For 2005 weddings, invitations are all about innovation. It makes sense: With more and more attention paid to personalizing every wedding detail (and with more and more couples worrying about their friends co-opting their fabulous ideas), designing an invite that'll stand out is challenging. Or make that was challenging. We talked to top invitation experts to get the newest twists on the latest trends. Push the envelope with one of these outstanding ideas.

IF YOU LIKE FLOWERS...

What's New
First it was floral-pressed papers; then it was floral motifs. Now, it's Asian-influenced, floral-designed papers sewn onto the backs of invitations, used as tissue-paper separators between invitation and reply card, or as envelope lining.

What's Next
All things 3-D, from tiny paper flowers dotted along the bottom of an invitation (adding some texture to your basic white-on-white) to vintage-inspired Chanel-like flowers made from fabric. A delicate rose (or flirty orchid) applied to a corner creates a flower "brooch" that makes any invitation blossom.

IF YOU LIKE RIBBONS...

What's New
From simple ribbon wraps to bands of pretty patterned paper tied around the middle of the invitation, bellybands add another dimension -- literally -- to classic invitation designs.

What's Next
Unexpected wraps. Mimic popular, preppy grosgrain ribbon belts by wrapping a brilliantly patterned ribbon around an invite and securing it with a small silver buckle. We've also seen colorful velvet bellybands held on with snaps; fur-trimmed bellybands fastened with crystal-studded buckles; and corset-style bellybands with crisscrossing silk ribbons.

IF YOU LIKE MONOGRAMS...

What's New
Traditional monograms (usually the bride's initials) have adorned invitations for ages. Today, they're more likely to include the initials of both the bride and groom.

What's Next
Lately we've noticed a clean and classic look where the monogram looks more like a stamp or logo than a historic familial seal. It can be anything from a couple's first initials to their interlocking names. The feel is contemporary and chic but still formal.

IF YOU LIKE PATTERNS...

What's New:
From decorative envelope liners imitating fancy Florentine papers to vine-like embossed borders in gold on ecru paper to blind-embossed details complimenting typeface, patterns have been used both modestly and moderately throughout the years.

What's Next
Keeping to one palette but mixing and matching patterns for a different (but unified) look on each element of your wedding stationery. Three patterns, three different ways, one memorable statement -- it's fashionable and fun. Pick your patterns to match your mood: florals, paisleys, and stripes for springtime soirees; toile, tiny dots, and fleur-de-lis for romantic affairs; stripes, plaids, and polka dots for stylish city weddings.

IF YOU LIKE THE BEACH...

What's New
Destination or beach weddings are still new to many, and invites that convey the theme literally are mailbox regulars for wedding jet-setters. Beachy inspirations include starfish studding, letterpressed seashells, pineapple embossments (a symbol of hospitality), and, for color, as-brilliant-as-the-ocean blue.

What's Next
Translating the essence of a destination wedding. Surprising colors (such as cantaloupe orange or watermelon red), interesting textures, and unexpected adornments make for a more abstract interpretation of the concept. We love the idea of accordion-fold invitation booklets hand-painted to resemble the horizon at sunset; simple cards adorned with dangling wooden beads or strings of tiny, delicate seashells; or vintage-looking cards tucked into burlap pockets. Sure, these elaborate invitations are more costly than traditional invitations. But with the small number you'll need to send, the fabulous factor outweighs the splurge.

IF YOU LOVE NATURE...

What's New
From pretty papers with pressed leaves to acorn or bee motifs, ever-popular nature-inspired invitations often lend a sense of warmth and comfort.

What's Next
We love the juxtaposition of conventional nature-inspired motifs with modern fonts and trendy trimmings. For example, a pressed leaf paired with a crystal stud or soft, natural papers dyed baby blue make equally homespun and fashionable statements -- perfect for '05 weddings, which are all about personal style.

-- Allison Micarelli, Wedding Style Editor

Invitations (clockwise from top): Flower: Offset-printed with large fabric flower, RedBliss.com; Patterns: Offset-printed, tri-pattern cards, RedRibbonStudio.com; Nature: Offset-printed with pressed leaf in metallic gold fold-out envelope, APapier.com; Destination: Custom-designed, letterpressed, accordion-fold, pricing upon request, Modern-Letterpress.com; Belted: Offset-printed on hand-sewn paper with grosgrain belt, Paper-Girl.com; Monogram: Offset-printed, CainWeddingStationery.com

Photo: Alex Cao

My Bday Cake

2005-03-19T22:28:00.000+08:00

Last na 'to

My Mood:

This is my post birthday celebration...my birthday isn't complete without the birthday cake of course. We bought Babe's favorite cake...since I know Gina will bring my favorite Coffee flavored cake (Thanks Gina). Thanks again to those who came. Sana nabusog kayo.

Special thanks to Bang & Nora for the salad and baked spare ribs...Grace & Ate Jeng for the puto and dinuguan

Happy Bday to me

2005-03-18T23:30:00.000+08:00

My Birthday

My Mood:

Okay its official...today is my 23rd birthday. Don't be surprised and please don't asked me again how old am I. My answer won't change. Me and some of our friends went to Marina South for a steamboat dinner. I didn't know anything about it until I saw all of them there. Babe kept it a secret from me. It was fun and we ate til we were sooo full.

I would like to thank everyone who came...Rams & Anne, Clent & Gina, Dey & Grace, Myrna, Claudette, Sir Mel, Dennis, Charlie, Daniel, Shaun and Jeremy.

We also celebrated Clent's Birthday...
Advance Happy Birthday Clent!!!

Advance Birthday Dinner

2005-03-17T22:02:00.000+08:00

Advance Birthday Dinner

My Mood:

ME, Babe and the people I work with

My birthday is tomorrow but the folks at work thinks that I should be spending that special day with my hubby they decided to throw my birthday dinner the day before.I never really knew anything...I didn't know who will be there or the place...all they asked was "march 17 is okay with you?" and I replied with "erm...yeah." and the person asking me replied with "okay then...bye." I put down the phone after that intercom...and that was it. So come March 17 I wasn't sure if the dinner is confirmed or not...no one was saying anything. It was only after work that I found out where we're going. My hubby joined us for dinner as well...it was the first time they saw him. The dinner went well. It was so nice of them to organize something like this for me though I just recently joined the company.

Laws Of The Ring

2005-03-09T21:32:00.000+08:00

Laws of the Ring

Thou shalt find a pair that suits both your personalities...
You like rose gold, he likes platinum. You fancy diamonds, he hates sparkly things. You like it matte, he likes it chrome.

Don't be too preoccupied with choosing an identical pair. Remember, no two people are alike, and more often than not, you and your hubby won't have the same taste (you're not marrying a clone). Being different is all part of an interesting and complementary union, so the trick is to reach a happy compromise.

Your wedding bands do not have to be identical, but they should complement each other in design and style. For example, your band could be rose gold layered on platinum with three diamonds inset. His band could be platinum layered on rose gold with a diamond on the side, or none at all.

Thou shalt get something durable
Your wedding bands are going to last a pretty long time, so it would be a wise to invest in a band which will withstand everyday wear and tear.

Sandra Chew from Fairy's Inc recommends that couples get at least 18K gold, or PT900 or PT950 platinum, which contains 90% and 95% platinum respectively. Pure platinum is not mixed with alloys and is therefore weaker than the 900 and 950.

Being too trendy may have unexpected repercussions a few years down the road when the fashion fades. It is far better to get a timeless classic that will look good, and suitable for everyday wear. It should be able to take you from work to cocktails to lazy weekends with the dog.

Thou shalt observe the 4 Cs
The diamond, a symbol of eternity, has been used on wedding bands since the 1300s. Its colour and clarity remain constant and last forever, representing an eternal commitment to each other. Always remember the 4Cs when choosing a diamond - Colour, Clarity, Cut and Carat. The best rule of thumb is to always find an optimum combination for your budget. Always get a diamond that is certified by worldwide-recognised authority such as GIA, HRD or AGS.

When getting a solitaire as an engagement ring, choose one that is as colourless as possible, and thus able to have more scintillation and brilliance. In other words, it will give off a blinding shine. The more common diamond shapes for engagement rings are the round brilliant and the princess cut. A thinner shank (band) accentuates the diamond more, and the classic setting for the diamond is a 6-prong.

As an engagement ring carries a huge and priceless sentimental significance, you should never scrimp when buying a ring for your loved one. But don't go broke in the process. According to Sandra, a rough gauge is about two to three times your monthly salary. However, what matters most in the end is the quality of the diamond and the design of the ring.

Thou shalt engrave the bands with something meaningful
Apart from engraving your wedding date or some other significant date, you could also engrave short phrases or quotes that hold special meaning for you both. If the quote is too long, an idea is to have the first half on one band, and the second half on the other.

These quotes can be from a poem he read to you on your first date or something romantic from a movie. For example, "The greatest gift is to love, and be loved in return" from Moulin Rouge. You get the idea.

You can also try "I love you" or "I do" in another language in romantic French, or even Latin. Evelyn Ng of Fairy's Inc says that she has had customers engraving Chinese characters and verses from the Bible.

However, remember your engraving may be limited by the design of the ring and the size of the band which may be too narrow to take too many characters.

Other Wedding Ring Facts:

Something blue
Some couples choose to have a little blue sapphire inside their ring, because in old English tradition, all brides must have something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue with them when they get married. The sapphire ring represents blood from the bodies of the husband and wife flowing together and being joined as one.

Left, right?
In Chinese tradition, the wedding band is worn on the fourth finger of the right hand of the bride, and the fourth finger of the left hand of the groom. This custom follows the "nan zhuo, nu you" (literal translation: men left, women right) tradition often used in Chinese fortune telling. It is believed that the right hand commands more influence, and as such, the woman is in charge of the household and the family. (This, we like.)

Ring finger
In the west, however, and in most countries like Singapore, the wedding bands are worn on the "ring" finger. The vein in the fourth finger on the left hand is believed to run right to the heart. This hasn't been scientifically proven, but nonetheless it is a romantic thought.

Amanda Koh for StyleWeddings.sg

Music: Top Ten Tips

2005-03-07T22:52:00.000+08:00

Music: Top Ten Tips

1. POLL YOUR PEERS
Ask friends and family members for recommendations from weddings they've recently attended. There's nothing like a wedding guest to give you an unbiased point of view -- find out who was on the dance floor and who wasn't.

2. ANALYZE THE ACOUSTICS
Whom you hire depends on where you'll marry. You can't really have string instruments on the beach or your violinist might be drowned out by the crashing waves. Similarly, a classic formal event will lend itself to big-band sounds, which you would have a tough time fitting under a small tent for 100 people in your backyard. If you're marrying in a public place (say, a park), noise restrictions may apply (also true for at-home weddings).

3. HEAR THEM FIRST
It's absolutely necessary to see and hear your musicians before you book them: Prior to signing any papers be sure to ask for a videotape and/or CD, or if you can see them perform live. If you've been given a CD, make sure you find out who exactly is on the recording -- which singers, how many instruments. If they're showcasing the all-star 12-piece band, and you're interested in the 9-piece ensemble, the sound may not be an accurate sample.

4. THINK ABOUT OVERTIME
Bands and DJs are typically hired for four hours, but if you think your reception might last longer, consider booking them for five hours. If you spontaneously decide to have them stay longer, you could incur steep overtime fees.

5. CONTRACT CUES
You must get everything in writing! This includes the names and contact information of your performers; the wedding date and location; and the hours the musicians should play. Agree on a total price (minus any deposit you may have already submitted) and costs for overtime. Document requests for the number (and length) of breaks.

6. PICK WITH PERSONALITY
Sure, you've got your first-dance song settled; and you've always wanted to dance with your dad to "Isn't She Lovely" by Stevie Wonder. But what about other custom tunes of the night? One for the cake-cutting, one for the bouquet toss, one for your exit dance? Have a little fun with it -- playing "Pour Some Sugar on Me" while you slice into your wedding cake will be a sweet treat.

7. THE DO-NOT-PLAY LIST
Probably more important than your "play" list -- make your DJ or band swear up and down that they will follow it no matter how much cash Aunt Milly is waving.

8. CURB JITTERS
While you’re dancing, whisper soothing things to each other and keep each other grounded, because your adrenaline is going to be going so fast. Also, make sure videographers and photographers stay off of the dance floor -- if they get too close, it can be a major distraction and catch you off guard.

9. BURN, BABY, BURN
If you're using a prerecorded CD for your first-dance song, write down the name of the song and track number for the person in charge of hitting play. Or, better yet, make everyone's life easier and copy the song on a blank CD so there's no mistake. Just bring a back-up CD in case there's a problem with the cue.

10. CLOTHES CALL
Don't forget to talk to your DJ or bandleader about what he (and/or the group) plans on wearing for your event. Divas in mini skirts may worry your grandma.

-- The Knot Girls

My Birthday?!

2005-03-07T22:36:00.000+08:00

My Birthday?!

My Mood:

I caught a glimpse of the calendar on my table,and suddenly I remembered something"My birthday is next week!" I can’t believe it slipped my mind. I guess I was too busy being bridezilla that I almost forgot my own birthday. To think that every morning I tell my Babe how many days left before our church wedding. Little did I know that I should be reminding myself that its only 10 days before my birthday. Usually a month before I’m starting to think what to cook and stuff but this year I was completely dumbfounded when I realized I haven’t thought about my birthday at all. I’m totally into our wedding preparations. Anyway on the bright side I sms some friends and they’ll help me with the preparations.

Photography: 18 Ways to Use Photos In Your Celebration

2005-03-06T14:14:00.001+08:00

Photography: 18 Ways to Use Photos In Your Celebration

Are you the sentimental types? Then incorporate your emotional sides into your festive occasion -- and create some new mementos along the way -- with these unique ideas.

PREWEDDING PARTIES
1. Shower Yourself with Pictures
Start making memories before the wedding begins with a photo theme shower. Have the shower hostess ask everyone to bring a photo-related gift. The presents might be a memory-making object like a camera, slide projector or mini cam; a memory-keeping object such as a picture frame or photo album; or a ready-made memory, such as a collage of photos of you and your friends from high school or a framed picture of you and your fiance. If most of your guests have been friends for years, you could show a slide show of your shared past during the party. Have a friend or relative on hand to take pictures of the event -- knowing you, you'll want plenty of those!

2. Go For Glam!
Take your bachelorette party to a photo studio, for a chic set of prints you'll keep long after the wedding. Make this "last night out with the girls" a full-scale frill-a-thon. If you still want to do the more traditional night out at the bars afterward, you'll be made-up and ready.

3. Dinner and a Movie
Put together a slide show for the rehearsal dinner. Pillage your old photo albums for great shots of you before you met your beloved, during your early days of dating each other, and now. Ask your sweetie (or his mother) for childhood photos, and borrow any other good shots from both of your friends. Get slides made of the prints from a photo shop and rent a slide projector (or use the one you got during your shower!). Make a tape of your favorite songs -- or the tunes that were playing while your were dating -- to play while you show the slides. Better yet, bring your laptop, rent a projector and do a slideshow with your digital images.

THE WEDDING DAY
4. The Write Invite
Rather than ordering standard engraved invitations, why not incorporate some of your own great art? Uncover that fabulous drawing of a bride and groom you did when you were five, and do your invites on copies of it. Or unearth that letter you wrote when you were 8 years old, vowing to never kiss a boy (except your dad and brother), and reprint that along with a picture of the two of you. Or, head to an old-school black-and-white photo booth and create a fun photo strip for your save-the-date notices!

5. Silent Stars
If your parents took baby movies while you were growing up, you could create your own video of the two of you as toddlers. Put it on a loop and let it run silently in a corner throughout the cocktail hour and/or reception; your guests will get to know you even better, and it's a great conversation piece!

6. The Making Of: Your Wedding
Instead of hiring a videographer during the wedding, why not make a video of the planning process? Have one of your cable-access-genius friends follow you around during the wedding preparations -- to the dress fitting, the stationery store, the caterers, the hairdresser. Ask your friend to put together a 15- or 30-minute "documentary" of the making of your marriage. Show it at the shower, before your bachelorette party, during the rehearsal dinner, or at the brunch the morning after the wedding. It's sure to make everyone laugh -- especially you!

7. Instant Album
Hire a professional photographer or friend to take Polaroids of all the wedding guests, then slip them into a photo scrapbook you have ready right there on a table. The photographer will insert the pictures on the spot, and ask everyone to write messages to the newlyweds, creating an instant wedding album. You can use any pretty scrapbook or buy a special photo book created for this purpose.

8. Wear Your Heart on Your Chest
You've seen those computerized photo T-shirt shops at the mall. Why not have one at your wedding? Your guests will have an instant outfit to remind them of you whenever they wear it. You can also affix these "photos" to coffee mugs, plaques or plates. Depending on your budget, you can get the shirts or mugs pre-printed with the date of your wedding.

9. Blowing Up Baby
At the wedding, have childhood photos of each of you blown up into poster-size prints and mounted on a stiff cardboard sheets or foam-core board. Ask all your guests to sign the poster before they leave the reception. After the wedding, take your posters back home and hang them on the wall next to each other. We know a couple who literally created Memory Lane. They lined the pathway leading to their ceremony site with a clothesline-full of blown-up photos through the years.

10. Theme Shots
Why not give your guests some instant memories too? Hire a photographer with old-fashioned costumes and a yesteryear backdrop for fun wedding photos. Guests can don the costumes and pose in an Wild West saloon, an old-fashioned malt shop, or a Victorian parlor -- it could even match the theme of your wedding. The photographer can give your guests prints to take home. You can even have individual cardboard frames printed with your names and the date of your wedding to slip 'em into. Another, simpler option is to rent or make one of those stand-up flats with the bodies of famous people or cartoon characters painted on the front. Guests stick their own heads on top of the fake bodies (or stand next to the "famous" figure). Have someone on hand with a Polaroid, or just let guests use their own cameras.

11. Sweet Stand
Why let some ready-made bride and groom stand on your cake when you can do it yourselves? Cut out a full-length pose of the two of you from a photo and mount it on thick, solid board. Slide the board into a stand, and then stick yourselves right into the frosting. Or go professional -- a lot of photo shops offer these silhouette-style, solid photos.

12. Picture This
Use small picture frames as escort card holders. Slide the guests' escort card into the frames, and line up all the frames the way you would ordinary escort cards. Guests will take the frame with them to find their tables, and then take the frames home. Choose silver frames or pressed paper, cardboard-backed frames.

13. Parental Pride
Display your parents' and grandparents' wedding photos on the entry table or the cake table, creating a sense of history at your wedding and honoring them at the same time.

14. Scatter Shots
Help your friends and families get to know each other through a visual history of your lives. Scatter handfuls of both your families' photos on each table (or assemble a bunch on a big table in a central location, where everyone will be able to see it), along with a card offering short explanations of the scenes. Sharing your photos can help create the feeling of a shared past, something your families will appreciate, particularly if they don't know each other well yet.

15. Share the Shooting
Why depend only on a pro when your guests know so well what shots are not-to-be-missed? Put a few disposable cameras on each table and ask guests to take pictures of anything that seems interesting, or give them a special scanvenger hunt with images to find (bride and groom kissing, cake cutting etc). When you develop the film later, you'll be surprised by what you find.

GIFT GIVING
16. Favor Them with Frames
Give picture frames as favors. Find unique old frames at antique stores, or buy matching, elegant silver ones. If you have more eclectic taste, you're sure to find frames that suit you -- in places from Walgreen's to upscale gift shops. Or choose simple frames and decorate them yourself with ribbon or glitter or a mosaic of old, cut-up photos. In the frames? If you can dig 'em up, (and are having a small celebration) put a photo of you or your fiance with each guest in them, so every guest's favor includes a picture of them and you!

17. Locket Up
Give your bridesmaids silver lockets, with a photo of you both inside. Or leave them empty and let your friends chose whom to wear around their neck (and close to their heart). Get real silver, if you can afford it -- or check out antique stores for great, vintage buys. Present the lockets on pretty velvet cords.

ON BEING MARRIED ...
18. Start an Anniversary Album
Decide now to take a photo, or roll of film, on every anniversary, and keep them all together in one anniversary album. Start with pictures of your wedding. Each year, add a shot of the two of you that depicts the changes in your lives -- your new house, your new car, your new kids. When your children get married, they'll have plenty of old photos right in the album to use for their own wedding.

-- Wendy Paris