RATING LEGEND:
5 - Highly Satisfied
4 - Satisfied
3 - So-so
2 - Dissatisfied
1 - Very Dissatisfied
Please note though that our ratings are all based on our own views and actual experiences. We'll leave it up to you guys to decide if they are the supplier for you.
Happy preps to all :)
Church | Manila Cathedral
PESO POWER: Php 20,000
We got their non-aircon package since it's quite cool naman inside the church. Dealing with them during our preps was super smooth. Upon reservation of the wedding date, we were given the checklist of the requirements we had to submit and the deadlines for each. They even gave me the schedule for my first communion and kumpil so all I have to do is to comply the prerequisites and show up on the scheduled dates. They also sent us text messages to remind us of the documents that we had to submit.
Suffice to say, the church is indeed beautiful and their staff was splendid (the best si Ms. Nora).
OVERALL RATING: 5
We got their non-aircon package since it's quite cool naman inside the church. Dealing with them during our preps was super smooth. Upon reservation of the wedding date, we were given the checklist of the requirements we had to submit and the deadlines for each. They even gave me the schedule for my first communion and kumpil so all I have to do is to comply the prerequisites and show up on the scheduled dates. They also sent us text messages to remind us of the documents that we had to submit.
Suffice to say, the church is indeed beautiful and their staff was splendid (the best si Ms. Nora).
OVERALL RATING: 5
Reception Venue | Casa Blanca
PESO POWER: Php 17,000 + 10% caterer's fee (6 hours use)
During preps, one of the more challenging task for us is the reception venue. There are a lot of factors kasi to consider in choosing one - proximity to the church, if tied-up with an in-house caterer, list of accredited caterers, fees, additional fees and hidden fees. He he he.
Nakailang balik at ikot ata kami ni Myke sa Intramuros sa kakahanap ng venue. At first, we booked Teatrillo but we had to reconsider and decided to move to Casa Blanca instead.
We never had problems dealing with them. We just paid the downpayment for reservation then came back a few weeks before the wedding to make the final payments. Actually, I was kinda expecting them to ask us for pay for some other hidden fees after our reception pero wala namang naningil. He he.
The challenge with the venue was the posts so it's very important that your caterer had experience in setting up with the venue so the tables are well-placed. Their azotea was newly renovated also and our buffet setup there was very nice. The newly painted area stood out in the pictures :)
OVERALL RATING: 4 (Apparently, they made an error on the banner indicating the event at Casa Blanca which was our reception. They put in "Sze-Bo Wedding". Ewan ko kung san nila nakuha ang apelyido ko. Di namin nakita ni Myke to but a few of our guests, a ninong included did notice.)
During preps, one of the more challenging task for us is the reception venue. There are a lot of factors kasi to consider in choosing one - proximity to the church, if tied-up with an in-house caterer, list of accredited caterers, fees, additional fees and hidden fees. He he he.
Nakailang balik at ikot ata kami ni Myke sa Intramuros sa kakahanap ng venue. At first, we booked Teatrillo but we had to reconsider and decided to move to Casa Blanca instead.
We never had problems dealing with them. We just paid the downpayment for reservation then came back a few weeks before the wedding to make the final payments. Actually, I was kinda expecting them to ask us for pay for some other hidden fees after our reception pero wala namang naningil. He he.
The challenge with the venue was the posts so it's very important that your caterer had experience in setting up with the venue so the tables are well-placed. Their azotea was newly renovated also and our buffet setup there was very nice. The newly painted area stood out in the pictures :)
OVERALL RATING: 4 (Apparently, they made an error on the banner indicating the event at Casa Blanca which was our reception. They put in "Sze-Bo Wedding". Ewan ko kung san nila nakuha ang apelyido ko. Di namin nakita ni Myke to but a few of our guests, a ninong included did notice.)
Photography and Videography | Redsheep and Redsheep R.A.W.
PESO POWER: Php 53,100 (2009 Rates. Photo and video coverage, outdoor prenup, 1 album, SDE, photo-slideshow of prenup pictures)
We discovered Redsheep thru W@W. They were just a budding but otherwise, very promising group in the wedding P/V industry. What drew me in was the crisp colors and the vividness of the 'special moments' that were captured by Guj and his team. I first contacted Guj and discussed the package we could avail thru emails. I never had a problem communicating with him either thru text or emails. When we booked them way back in 2009, Guj had a promo then that he will provide additional discount for full payments before his set deadline. We grabbed the opportunity and hindi kami nagsisi sa choice namin. We had a great P/V team without breaking the bank :) It's better to show you their works - our teaser, engagement session and wedding photos so you could see how talented they are.
Come wedding day, may additional freebie pang AVP slideshow si Guj for us. We haggled kasi that they provide us an engagement album na lang instead of the slideshow since our package is with an SDE naman pero meron pa ring slideshow. Yehey!
Classic.. Contemporary.. Timeless..
These are the words would I would use to describe our wedding pictures. Thanks to our awesome Photo and Video team from Team Redsheep, I can't wait to show these off to our family, friends and our (future) kiddos :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
We discovered Redsheep thru W@W. They were just a budding but otherwise, very promising group in the wedding P/V industry. What drew me in was the crisp colors and the vividness of the 'special moments' that were captured by Guj and his team. I first contacted Guj and discussed the package we could avail thru emails. I never had a problem communicating with him either thru text or emails. When we booked them way back in 2009, Guj had a promo then that he will provide additional discount for full payments before his set deadline. We grabbed the opportunity and hindi kami nagsisi sa choice namin. We had a great P/V team without breaking the bank :) It's better to show you their works - our teaser, engagement session and wedding photos so you could see how talented they are.
Come wedding day, may additional freebie pang AVP slideshow si Guj for us. We haggled kasi that they provide us an engagement album na lang instead of the slideshow since our package is with an SDE naman pero meron pa ring slideshow. Yehey!
Classic.. Contemporary.. Timeless..
These are the words would I would use to describe our wedding pictures. Thanks to our awesome Photo and Video team from Team Redsheep, I can't wait to show these off to our family, friends and our (future) kiddos :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
Caterer | Hizons
PESO POWER: Php 720/head (2009 booking)
I experienced what other W@Wies ranted about Hizon's, specifically yung pang-iiwan sa ere ng mga kliyente nung mga nag-resign na AEs nila. Well, our previous AE didn't quit but was transferred to another division but nonetheless, there wasn't a proper endorsement so when I was texting Cynthia (former AE) and asking about their crew meals, I got no reply. It was only when I asked Drew (our planner) if Cynthia was still with Hizon's that things got better, Drew became our AE cum planner.
Working with Drew was a breeze. He replies fast and is willing to accommodate our requests naman. I made sure he was aware of the problems with their waiters (nagtatago ng food) as mentioned by their previous brides and by my coordinator na rin. So I guess, he kept a wary eye on them during the wedding.
On the wedding day, there are some things that I noticed na medyo off. First is our cake. As you could see in the picture, blue ang flowers niya. When in fact, plum+pink and motif namin and I specifically asked that the flowers be made with the same color combo during our final detailing with Drew.
Their bridal car is kinda old - specifically the rear door. It was cranky and kinda difficult to open. At least, the airconditioning was working and the car didn't break down during the short trips to-from the church and reception.
Despite all that, the guests raved about the food. Masarap daw at busog na busog sila. Actually, di na nga nila natikman lahat (lalo na yung desserts) because they were stuffed already. And the leftovers were turned over properly. They made separate 'balots' for the bride's family, Myke's family and for us, the couple.
OVERALL RATING: 4 (Our cake looked really good except that the color was off and the bridal car is already 'vintage'.)
I experienced what other W@Wies ranted about Hizon's, specifically yung pang-iiwan sa ere ng mga kliyente nung mga nag-resign na AEs nila. Well, our previous AE didn't quit but was transferred to another division but nonetheless, there wasn't a proper endorsement so when I was texting Cynthia (former AE) and asking about their crew meals, I got no reply. It was only when I asked Drew (our planner) if Cynthia was still with Hizon's that things got better, Drew became our AE cum planner.
Working with Drew was a breeze. He replies fast and is willing to accommodate our requests naman. I made sure he was aware of the problems with their waiters (nagtatago ng food) as mentioned by their previous brides and by my coordinator na rin. So I guess, he kept a wary eye on them during the wedding.
On the wedding day, there are some things that I noticed na medyo off. First is our cake. As you could see in the picture, blue ang flowers niya. When in fact, plum+pink and motif namin and I specifically asked that the flowers be made with the same color combo during our final detailing with Drew.
Their bridal car is kinda old - specifically the rear door. It was cranky and kinda difficult to open. At least, the airconditioning was working and the car didn't break down during the short trips to-from the church and reception.
Despite all that, the guests raved about the food. Masarap daw at busog na busog sila. Actually, di na nga nila natikman lahat (lalo na yung desserts) because they were stuffed already. And the leftovers were turned over properly. They made separate 'balots' for the bride's family, Myke's family and for us, the couple.
OVERALL RATING: 4 (Our cake looked really good except that the color was off and the bridal car is already 'vintage'.)
Wedding Coordinator | Ricci Reyes Ang of RA Events Specialist
PESO POWER: Php 40,000 (Full coordination)
He was the coordinator of three of our office colleagues. All of them had good feedback naman so we decided to book him.
Ricci was prettty ok with regards to responding to our queries plus he recommended some of our suppliers that really delivered. But since we availed of his full coordination service, I thought he lacked a bit of follow-ups and pangungumusta / updates with regards to the progress of the preps. Maybe I was too OC and eager to be a hands-on bride but then again, I kinda felt that we didn't get all of our money's worth.
On the day of the wedding, his team was on time and immediately got to work. Patrick (his assistant) went over the details with me and checked for clarifications every now and then. I also appreciated his (literally) running to the store to buy me water when I asked for some while I was waiting at the bridal car. Since I was busy projecting to the camera, I didn't get to monitor much their comings and goings. Kaya nga kung hindi man sila nagtrabaho, karma na ang bahala sa kanila :P
At the ceremony, we didn't get to have petal showers on our exit from the church. I know we have rose petals for that because it was included in the package with our florist. Maybe he didn't advise his team to do so. When I asked him about it at the reception, he told me na bawal daw. I know he's lying because I've seen enough pictures and videos of Manila Cathedral brides who had been thrown petals during church exits to know na di siya bawal. Ang bawal ay yung mga rice confetti or ibang materials other than petals. As I've said, I was in my 'zone' during our wedding and I would not let ANYONE burst my bubble.
Wala rin nakaalala (including me) na itaas yung train ng gown ko during the reception. Since my train was a bit long, I've asked Ruel kung ano ang pwedeng gawin para naman di ako mahirapan to move around during the reception. Ricci was the one who suggestion to put a hook on my trail so I could pin it up during reception pero ayun, I was holding my trail while walking around sa reception.
It was smooth sailing during the reception. After the group shots, people were directed to the buffet table so it was orderly. Naasikaso naman ang lahat. :)
After the wedding, I texted Ricci regarding the petals issue and yung wrong banner (see note at Casa Blanca ratings) to clarify things. He replied that he saw the 'banner disaster' (o di ba rhyme? He he he.) so he immediately had it taken down. With regards to the petal showers during our church exit, he told me that we went out agad and there was already the next bride waiting and naghahabol pa ang P/V for onsite. But seriously, how long does it take to throw petals? Di naman sako-sako ang isasabog, di ba? And Guj and his team never asked us to hurry up just so they could get shots for the onsite. Anyway, I just thanked Ricci for clarifying matters but decided not to make a big deal out of it. I could argue with him but in the end, it's all in the past and for me, it's a minute detail compared to the overall scheme of things.
OVERALL RATING: 4.0 (Explanations are above. Siguro dapat di siya masyado nagfocus sa pag-aayos ng reception. Maybe he should have been there at the church to at least oversee things or at least reminded the rest of his team to be ready for the church agendas.)
He was the coordinator of three of our office colleagues. All of them had good feedback naman so we decided to book him.
Ricci was prettty ok with regards to responding to our queries plus he recommended some of our suppliers that really delivered. But since we availed of his full coordination service, I thought he lacked a bit of follow-ups and pangungumusta / updates with regards to the progress of the preps. Maybe I was too OC and eager to be a hands-on bride but then again, I kinda felt that we didn't get all of our money's worth.
On the day of the wedding, his team was on time and immediately got to work. Patrick (his assistant) went over the details with me and checked for clarifications every now and then. I also appreciated his (literally) running to the store to buy me water when I asked for some while I was waiting at the bridal car. Since I was busy projecting to the camera, I didn't get to monitor much their comings and goings. Kaya nga kung hindi man sila nagtrabaho, karma na ang bahala sa kanila :P
At the ceremony, we didn't get to have petal showers on our exit from the church. I know we have rose petals for that because it was included in the package with our florist. Maybe he didn't advise his team to do so. When I asked him about it at the reception, he told me na bawal daw. I know he's lying because I've seen enough pictures and videos of Manila Cathedral brides who had been thrown petals during church exits to know na di siya bawal. Ang bawal ay yung mga rice confetti or ibang materials other than petals. As I've said, I was in my 'zone' during our wedding and I would not let ANYONE burst my bubble.
Wala rin nakaalala (including me) na itaas yung train ng gown ko during the reception. Since my train was a bit long, I've asked Ruel kung ano ang pwedeng gawin para naman di ako mahirapan to move around during the reception. Ricci was the one who suggestion to put a hook on my trail so I could pin it up during reception pero ayun, I was holding my trail while walking around sa reception.
It was smooth sailing during the reception. After the group shots, people were directed to the buffet table so it was orderly. Naasikaso naman ang lahat. :)
After the wedding, I texted Ricci regarding the petals issue and yung wrong banner (see note at Casa Blanca ratings) to clarify things. He replied that he saw the 'banner disaster' (o di ba rhyme? He he he.) so he immediately had it taken down. With regards to the petal showers during our church exit, he told me that we went out agad and there was already the next bride waiting and naghahabol pa ang P/V for onsite. But seriously, how long does it take to throw petals? Di naman sako-sako ang isasabog, di ba? And Guj and his team never asked us to hurry up just so they could get shots for the onsite. Anyway, I just thanked Ricci for clarifying matters but decided not to make a big deal out of it. I could argue with him but in the end, it's all in the past and for me, it's a minute detail compared to the overall scheme of things.
OVERALL RATING: 4.0 (Explanations are above. Siguro dapat di siya masyado nagfocus sa pag-aayos ng reception. Maybe he should have been there at the church to at least oversee things or at least reminded the rest of his team to be ready for the church agendas.)
Couturier | Ruel Rivera
PESO POWER: Cannot be disclosed
Ruel is the first supplier that Ricci had referred to us. When I was scouting for my designer, I've shortlisted Ammon Velasco and Adora Revilloza for my would-be supplier but we booked Ruel on the spot after our initial meeting. Ruel is one of those suppliers na parang di mo feel sa una. I guess we haven't build rapport yet so I was kinda queasy with him at first. Siya yung supplier na akala ko e yung dapat kong tutukan dahil akala ko e di nya makukuha ang gusto ko sa mga gowns namin. But as we progressed sa preps, we bonded and I was impressed with his works.
I brought photos of the gowns I wanted to my entourage but Ruel had to sketch new designs for me. I initially wanted my entourage to have different styled dresses with only the color motif as cohesive factor. But apparently, the budget limit we've set wouldn't do so we made a deal and Ruel just provided new sketches. The dresses turned out great. My entourage loved it and most of them only had minimal adjustments during their initial fittings. They were also made way ahead of schedule.
For my gown, I love it. The design wasn't Ruel's though. I chose the gown design myself but Ruel added more embellishments on the bodice. He also used a shimmering chiffon cloth instead of the usual chiffon. In other words, he made a few more touches to make the gown stand out because it had a very simple silhouette. I had 3 fittings with him lang (dapat 4 kaso on our visit ng supposedly 3rd fitting ko, wala yung gown ko. Pina-dry clean nila kasi nga it was displayed sa F.A.B.). But I wasn't nervous with the craftmanship of the gown, what I was nervous about was if I could still fit in it. Ha ha ha!
For Myke's suit, there was a bit of a delay. During his initial fitting, the shoulders were too narrow and the jacket sleeves were too short. Myke couldn't move his arms with the jacket on because the seams might burst. On his return, the issue with the sleeve length was addressed but it is still a bit snug. Myke was getting nervous with his suit because it's less than a week before the wedding but his suit turned out well naman. They had to make him new jackets (apparently, you can't simply make alterations on men's suit unlike dresses) everytime there were changes but they didn't complain naman or made remarks which is dapat lang :)
I don't think someone from Ruel's team was present during the wedding because it was one of Ricci's assistant and my mom who helped me with my gown. Kaya pati yung pag-aayos ng train ko (ipi-pin dapat sa may butt ko e inde na-execute).
OVERALL RATING: 4.5
*Rating above do not cover the rest of the groom's ensemble. Groom's attire: Inner shirt and cuff links from Onesimus. Bowtie from Marks & Spencer. Belt and Shoes - Cole Haan.
Ruel is the first supplier that Ricci had referred to us. When I was scouting for my designer, I've shortlisted Ammon Velasco and Adora Revilloza for my would-be supplier but we booked Ruel on the spot after our initial meeting. Ruel is one of those suppliers na parang di mo feel sa una. I guess we haven't build rapport yet so I was kinda queasy with him at first. Siya yung supplier na akala ko e yung dapat kong tutukan dahil akala ko e di nya makukuha ang gusto ko sa mga gowns namin. But as we progressed sa preps, we bonded and I was impressed with his works.
I brought photos of the gowns I wanted to my entourage but Ruel had to sketch new designs for me. I initially wanted my entourage to have different styled dresses with only the color motif as cohesive factor. But apparently, the budget limit we've set wouldn't do so we made a deal and Ruel just provided new sketches. The dresses turned out great. My entourage loved it and most of them only had minimal adjustments during their initial fittings. They were also made way ahead of schedule.
For my gown, I love it. The design wasn't Ruel's though. I chose the gown design myself but Ruel added more embellishments on the bodice. He also used a shimmering chiffon cloth instead of the usual chiffon. In other words, he made a few more touches to make the gown stand out because it had a very simple silhouette. I had 3 fittings with him lang (dapat 4 kaso on our visit ng supposedly 3rd fitting ko, wala yung gown ko. Pina-dry clean nila kasi nga it was displayed sa F.A.B.). But I wasn't nervous with the craftmanship of the gown, what I was nervous about was if I could still fit in it. Ha ha ha!
For Myke's suit, there was a bit of a delay. During his initial fitting, the shoulders were too narrow and the jacket sleeves were too short. Myke couldn't move his arms with the jacket on because the seams might burst. On his return, the issue with the sleeve length was addressed but it is still a bit snug. Myke was getting nervous with his suit because it's less than a week before the wedding but his suit turned out well naman. They had to make him new jackets (apparently, you can't simply make alterations on men's suit unlike dresses) everytime there were changes but they didn't complain naman or made remarks which is dapat lang :)
I don't think someone from Ruel's team was present during the wedding because it was one of Ricci's assistant and my mom who helped me with my gown. Kaya pati yung pag-aayos ng train ko (ipi-pin dapat sa may butt ko e inde na-execute).
OVERALL RATING: 4.5
*Rating above do not cover the rest of the groom's ensemble. Groom's attire: Inner shirt and cuff links from Onesimus. Bowtie from Marks & Spencer. Belt and Shoes - Cole Haan.
Hair and Make-up | Cel Sabile
PESO POWER: Php 15,000 (Bride + 2 head + groom. All airbrush. Free trial)
Cel was another supplier referred by Ricci. Two of my office colleagues were her clients during their weddings which I had attended. I had two trials with her before the wedding - one was for our prenup session and one for my second boudoir shoot. I love Cel because she knows how to play up with your looks - from sexy to sweet to a blooming bride.
What I also liked was that magaan ang kamay niya. I've had makeup artists who felt like they were giving me a facial instead of putting makeup.
Everytime I sit on her makeup chair, we would be conversing and sharing chikkas. I never felt nervous on how'd I look cos I know I'll look great :)
OVERALL RATING: 5
Cel was another supplier referred by Ricci. Two of my office colleagues were her clients during their weddings which I had attended. I had two trials with her before the wedding - one was for our prenup session and one for my second boudoir shoot. I love Cel because she knows how to play up with your looks - from sexy to sweet to a blooming bride.
What I also liked was that magaan ang kamay niya. I've had makeup artists who felt like they were giving me a facial instead of putting makeup.
Everytime I sit on her makeup chair, we would be conversing and sharing chikkas. I never felt nervous on how'd I look cos I know I'll look great :)
OVERALL RATING: 5
Pre-wedding Preps | White Knight Hotel Intramuros
PESO POWER: Php2,744 for Suite Room and Php6,000 for 4 De Luxe Rooms*
Myke and I decided to change our preps venue from Pan Pacific Hotel. We had considered the options, weighed the pros and cons of the move and later agreed that it'll be better to hold the wedding preps at Hotel Intramuros which is just a stone's throw away from the reception venue.
During our check-in, I've thought that they'd be giving us the suite which was interconnected to another De Luxe/Executive room which would be very convenient for our family. Instead, they gave us two suites adjacent to each other. Medyo magulo sila kausap with regards sa mga bookings namin. I don't know if the AE who assisted us didn't give the proper endorsements sa management nila or what.
They were very lenient naman with regards to the food that you could bring in which is probably your best course kasi ang mahal ng food sa kanila! I ordered coffee and kamukat-mukat mo e 3-in-1 sachet lang pala! Tapos nasa Php50?!
Their rooms were sufficient for our needs naman. I noticed though that when we checked in, there's a faint paint smell in the room. It's probably because newly renovated nga and the room weren't aired our prior to our stay.
OVERALL RATING: 4.0
*Promo rates
Myke and I decided to change our preps venue from Pan Pacific Hotel. We had considered the options, weighed the pros and cons of the move and later agreed that it'll be better to hold the wedding preps at Hotel Intramuros which is just a stone's throw away from the reception venue.
During our check-in, I've thought that they'd be giving us the suite which was interconnected to another De Luxe/Executive room which would be very convenient for our family. Instead, they gave us two suites adjacent to each other. Medyo magulo sila kausap with regards sa mga bookings namin. I don't know if the AE who assisted us didn't give the proper endorsements sa management nila or what.
They were very lenient naman with regards to the food that you could bring in which is probably your best course kasi ang mahal ng food sa kanila! I ordered coffee and kamukat-mukat mo e 3-in-1 sachet lang pala! Tapos nasa Php50?!
Their rooms were sufficient for our needs naman. I noticed though that when we checked in, there's a faint paint smell in the room. It's probably because newly renovated nga and the room weren't aired our prior to our stay.
OVERALL RATING: 4.0
*Promo rates
Rings | Gold E's Vanson
PESO POWER: Php 27,500
Myke was the one who scouted for the rings. He already picked the design and we went back to the shop so I could see it for myself and give my ok. We chose a simple white gold band design. The store assistants were very helpful and they even accommodated our request for the engraving. A few days before the wedding, we went back because my ring had a stain on it. They cleaned it for free naman and were still very accommodating.
OVERALL RATING: 5
Myke was the one who scouted for the rings. He already picked the design and we went back to the shop so I could see it for myself and give my ok. We chose a simple white gold band design. The store assistants were very helpful and they even accommodated our request for the engraving. A few days before the wedding, we went back because my ring had a stain on it. They cleaned it for free naman and were still very accommodating.
OVERALL RATING: 5
Bridal Shoes | Veluz * Abbylyn
PESO POWER: Php 0
I got my Veluz shoes from the W@W 2009 Christmas Party. Most W@W bride dream of having a Veluz gown but I really didn't want to splurge on my gown that much. I have to consider our alloted budget. Anyway, I got the next best thing naman :)
Guj must have thought that my gown was also made by Veluz because I had Veluz shoes. He asked me while we were at the hotel if Veluz was coming. Ha ha! So I told him that I got them as prize lang :)
The fits perfectly (or else I wouldn't have won them, he he.) and are very comfortable.
OVERALL RATING: 5
I got my Veluz shoes from the W@W 2009 Christmas Party. Most W@W bride dream of having a Veluz gown but I really didn't want to splurge on my gown that much. I have to consider our alloted budget. Anyway, I got the next best thing naman :)
Guj must have thought that my gown was also made by Veluz because I had Veluz shoes. He asked me while we were at the hotel if Veluz was coming. Ha ha! So I told him that I got them as prize lang :)
The fits perfectly (or else I wouldn't have won them, he he.) and are very comfortable.
OVERALL RATING: 5
PESO POWER: Php 1,200 (Swarovski beads - bride's own)
With my Veluz shoes, I already have my bridal shoes so to speak. But I really wanted a splash of color for my footwear. Now, finding the perfect pair of shoes to go with your gown was not easy. I had to consider my gown style, design and embellishments cos I don't want my shoes to overshine my dress. So when I stumbled upon the Greco shoes by Nina, I knew I found MY shoes :)
Now my dilemma was that the Greco design was of the past season so going around different Rustan's branches wasn't fruitful. I had the option to order it online but was really uneasy since I haven't tried buying shoes online and I don't want to be stressed if (for some reasons), it wouldn't fit me. So my only solution was to have my shoes customized.
I've learned about Abbylyn's from W@W. I had a vague idea how much it costs but didn't know that I was to supply the cloth for my shoes! So when my mom and I went there, I was just armed with the pictures of my shoes and money for downpayment. But Thelma was really nice, she asked me what color would I want my shoes to be in and managed to find me some left over cloth (from other customers. (Madalas raw kasi yung ibang customers e sobra sobra ang binibigay na tela. Ssshh. Wag niyo ako sumbong sa kanila ha. He he.) and gave them to me for free :D Plus they were up front in saying that they won't be able to copy the platform soles since they don't have the material.
Since my shoe inspiration had some beadings and Abbylyn's only has rhinestone beads (for an extra fee of course), I had to provide the Swarovskis myself. Maarte lang talaga ako. Saka kasi yung rhinestones e naninilaw pag katagalan. So I bought the beads at Divisoria (P112.50 per pack of 25 pieces. I bought 4 packs/100 pieces but they used up only around 90 pieces. They returned to me the excess.) and brought it to them a few days before the deadline. Deadline to get my shoes was August 8 but they notified me a day before the deadline that my shoes are done and ok for pick-up :) When I went back their shop, I tried them on. The shoes were a bit loose in the front so they added a few more padding to make it snug.
The shoes were comfortable. I didn't have a problems with it. I loved the design so I'd be sure to wear them again if my ensemble calls for some fierce footwear :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
With my Veluz shoes, I already have my bridal shoes so to speak. But I really wanted a splash of color for my footwear. Now, finding the perfect pair of shoes to go with your gown was not easy. I had to consider my gown style, design and embellishments cos I don't want my shoes to overshine my dress. So when I stumbled upon the Greco shoes by Nina, I knew I found MY shoes :)
Now my dilemma was that the Greco design was of the past season so going around different Rustan's branches wasn't fruitful. I had the option to order it online but was really uneasy since I haven't tried buying shoes online and I don't want to be stressed if (for some reasons), it wouldn't fit me. So my only solution was to have my shoes customized.
I've learned about Abbylyn's from W@W. I had a vague idea how much it costs but didn't know that I was to supply the cloth for my shoes! So when my mom and I went there, I was just armed with the pictures of my shoes and money for downpayment. But Thelma was really nice, she asked me what color would I want my shoes to be in and managed to find me some left over cloth (from other customers. (Madalas raw kasi yung ibang customers e sobra sobra ang binibigay na tela. Ssshh. Wag niyo ako sumbong sa kanila ha. He he.) and gave them to me for free :D Plus they were up front in saying that they won't be able to copy the platform soles since they don't have the material.
Since my shoe inspiration had some beadings and Abbylyn's only has rhinestone beads (for an extra fee of course), I had to provide the Swarovskis myself. Maarte lang talaga ako. Saka kasi yung rhinestones e naninilaw pag katagalan. So I bought the beads at Divisoria (P112.50 per pack of 25 pieces. I bought 4 packs/100 pieces but they used up only around 90 pieces. They returned to me the excess.) and brought it to them a few days before the deadline. Deadline to get my shoes was August 8 but they notified me a day before the deadline that my shoes are done and ok for pick-up :) When I went back their shop, I tried them on. The shoes were a bit loose in the front so they added a few more padding to make it snug.
The shoes were comfortable. I didn't have a problems with it. I loved the design so I'd be sure to wear them again if my ensemble calls for some fierce footwear :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
Entourage Flowers | Biboy's Flower Shop
PESO POWER: Php 9,000 (Bridal bouquet - 2 tone Equadorian roses, dark stargazer, pink snapdragons, hydrangeas w/ gypsophilia, 4 hand tied bouquets for Mothers, BM and MOH, 8 wristers for other female ento, 2 pomanders with headdresses, 14 boutonnaires - carnation, roses, gerbera w/ azucena fillers + Bride's hair piece made of white carnations, throw away bouquet, rose petals)
I absolutely love my bouquet. When I had to decide what flowers to use for my bouquet, I specifically asked that I wanted lilies instead of the usual roses. I had to browse several sites to look for the bouquet that I wanted and I copied the pictures of those I liked. I showed these pictures to Tita Belle of Biboy's Flower Shop during our meeting who was really helpful in helping me choose what other flowers I could use for the entourage's.
A few days before the wedding, I got a call from Tita Belle. Akala ko she'd be telling me na di magagamit ang preferred kong flowers (since there was a typhoon the week before the wedding), but apparently, she was just checking the new venue for the hotel preps. Whew. Ha ha ha!
When the flowers arrived, I didn't see my bouquet immediately. I was busy with the shoot and what-nots to notice kasi. But when I did see it, I couldn't help gushing. If the flowers wouldn't get crushed, I'd probably would have hugged my bouquet. OA no? :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
I absolutely love my bouquet. When I had to decide what flowers to use for my bouquet, I specifically asked that I wanted lilies instead of the usual roses. I had to browse several sites to look for the bouquet that I wanted and I copied the pictures of those I liked. I showed these pictures to Tita Belle of Biboy's Flower Shop during our meeting who was really helpful in helping me choose what other flowers I could use for the entourage's.
A few days before the wedding, I got a call from Tita Belle. Akala ko she'd be telling me na di magagamit ang preferred kong flowers (since there was a typhoon the week before the wedding), but apparently, she was just checking the new venue for the hotel preps. Whew. Ha ha ha!
When the flowers arrived, I didn't see my bouquet immediately. I was busy with the shoot and what-nots to notice kasi. But when I did see it, I couldn't help gushing. If the flowers wouldn't get crushed, I'd probably would have hugged my bouquet. OA no? :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
Host | Kim Tan
PESO POWER: Packaged with Full Coor service by Ricci Ang
We decided to avail the hosting service packaged with Ricci's full coor service. Initially, we wanted to get the male emcee who we personally saw his hosting skills during a friend's wedding. But as we were working on our guest list, it dawned to us that we have to get a Chinese-speaking emcee so our Chinese guest wouldn't be at a loss. We added a few more buckaroos so we could get a Chinese emcee but it was well-worth it.
During our initial meeting with Kim, I already felt at ease with her. I don't know why but whenever I meet strangers and discovered they're with Chinese blood e parang nakakampante ako. He he!
Anyway, a week before the wedding, Kim told us if we still want to get her service. Her father just passed away and she told us she'd understand if we decided to replace her (lalo na sa mga Chinese superstition). Myke and I discussed and kami pa actually ang nagsasabi kay Kim that if she needed time and wouldn't be able to render her services for us, we'd understand. Pero ok naman daw with her. Kami ang inaalala niya since she knows na maraming bawal-bawal sa Chinese. Personally, walang problem sa amin ni Myke but we still asked our parents na rin. Wala naman daw kaso kasi emcee lang naman siya. My father just told me to make sure na di magsusuot si Kim ng anything that is associated with mourning. Ok naman si Kim with our request and sure enough, she was bubbly and energetic sa reception. As you can see from the pictures, ang saya-saya namin! :)
OVERALL RATING: 5
We decided to avail the hosting service packaged with Ricci's full coor service. Initially, we wanted to get the male emcee who we personally saw his hosting skills during a friend's wedding. But as we were working on our guest list, it dawned to us that we have to get a Chinese-speaking emcee so our Chinese guest wouldn't be at a loss. We added a few more buckaroos so we could get a Chinese emcee but it was well-worth it.
During our initial meeting with Kim, I already felt at ease with her. I don't know why but whenever I meet strangers and discovered they're with Chinese blood e parang nakakampante ako. He he!
Anyway, a week before the wedding, Kim told us if we still want to get her service. Her father just passed away and she told us she'd understand if we decided to replace her (lalo na sa mga Chinese superstition). Myke and I discussed and kami pa actually ang nagsasabi kay Kim that if she needed time and wouldn't be able to render her services for us, we'd understand. Pero ok naman daw with her. Kami ang inaalala niya since she knows na maraming bawal-bawal sa Chinese. Personally, walang problem sa amin ni Myke but we still asked our parents na rin. Wala naman daw kaso kasi emcee lang naman siya. My father just told me to make sure na di magsusuot si Kim ng anything that is associated with mourning. Ok naman si Kim with our request and sure enough, she was bubbly and energetic sa reception. As you can see from the pictures, ang saya-saya namin! :)
OVERALL RATING: 5
Invitations | Written in Ink
PESO POWER: Php 6,600 (Main invite, entourage and RSVP card in premium ecru paper + envelopes. Free sticker seals.)
There's a bit of a story during our search for our invitation supplier. I had an idea before on what I wanted on our invitation but had to ditch the concept to 'maximize' our budget.
We booked Wink during a bridal fair and Jenny was our AE then. But when we were starting to work on our invites, we were referred to Esmie (who is from Printsonalities) since Jenny was on maternity leave. The change was a blessing in disguise because we were able to coax them to use the design from Printsonalities. He he he.
Our transactions with Esmie was a breeze. For revisions, I simply have to email them to her and their artist tweaked them according to my instruction. Our invitations got compliments from our friends and even our photographer asked who made them :) They told me that the design is very simple yet 'astig'. He he he!
However, I would have wanted sana to use our logo for the sticker seals. Apparently, Esmie forgot about it but then ok pa rin naman kasi mas bagay nga naman yung design nila with the invitation. Plus, they gave us 100 pieces of Chinese invitations instead of just 80 which was what we ordered; so may free kami na 20 Chinese invites :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
There's a bit of a story during our search for our invitation supplier. I had an idea before on what I wanted on our invitation but had to ditch the concept to 'maximize' our budget.
We booked Wink during a bridal fair and Jenny was our AE then. But when we were starting to work on our invites, we were referred to Esmie (who is from Printsonalities) since Jenny was on maternity leave. The change was a blessing in disguise because we were able to coax them to use the design from Printsonalities. He he he.
Our transactions with Esmie was a breeze. For revisions, I simply have to email them to her and their artist tweaked them according to my instruction. Our invitations got compliments from our friends and even our photographer asked who made them :) They told me that the design is very simple yet 'astig'. He he he!
However, I would have wanted sana to use our logo for the sticker seals. Apparently, Esmie forgot about it but then ok pa rin naman kasi mas bagay nga naman yung design nila with the invitation. Plus, they gave us 100 pieces of Chinese invitations instead of just 80 which was what we ordered; so may free kami na 20 Chinese invites :P
OVERALL RATING: 5
Sponsor's and Entourage Gifts | Rachebeli
PESO POWER: Php 9,500 (3 dozens of wine + 2 dozens of chocolates, free 100 pcs. sticker seals)
Another W@W find. We met up with Chelo during wine tasting and it turned out that we have the same route home so we bonded together during our commute. Their products are really good especially the Cappucino bars. Around a month before the wedding, I had to make a follow-up on our label designs we wanted to buy the additional sinamay bags at Divi. There was a bit of delay but Chelo explained naman that there's a queue with their artist kasi kaya 'waiting' pa kami. We liked the label proposals she gave us and after giving our ok, we promptly delivered the goods.
Buti na rin na at the time of the delivery, meron na silang sinamay bags kasi di ko masyadong type yung acetate boxes na packaging nila dati. Di ko rin masyado type yung sticker seals so di na lang namin ginamit. Sssshh. He he he.
OVERALL RATING: 5
Another W@W find. We met up with Chelo during wine tasting and it turned out that we have the same route home so we bonded together during our commute. Their products are really good especially the Cappucino bars. Around a month before the wedding, I had to make a follow-up on our label designs we wanted to buy the additional sinamay bags at Divi. There was a bit of delay but Chelo explained naman that there's a queue with their artist kasi kaya 'waiting' pa kami. We liked the label proposals she gave us and after giving our ok, we promptly delivered the goods.
Buti na rin na at the time of the delivery, meron na silang sinamay bags kasi di ko masyadong type yung acetate boxes na packaging nila dati. Di ko rin masyado type yung sticker seals so di na lang namin ginamit. Sssshh. He he he.
OVERALL RATING: 5
Guestbook | Photobook
PESO POWER: Php 2,550
Since we opted to avail an engagement album from Redsheep (we turned down the freebie guestbook from Hizon's), Myke and I had to look for a guestbook printer.
Again, I sought the help of W@Wies and got feedback regarding Photobook. You could read my post about it for the whole story. Bottomline is, we ♥ our guestbook. Our friends also get to appreciate the photos muna before writing in their wishes. I'd definitely order from them again if I have a book idea :)
OVERALL RATING: 5
Since we opted to avail an engagement album from Redsheep (we turned down the freebie guestbook from Hizon's), Myke and I had to look for a guestbook printer.
Again, I sought the help of W@Wies and got feedback regarding Photobook. You could read my post about it for the whole story. Bottomline is, we ♥ our guestbook. Our friends also get to appreciate the photos muna before writing in their wishes. I'd definitely order from them again if I have a book idea :)
OVERALL RATING: 5
Guests Tokens | Baicapture
PESO POWER: Php 9,000 Lite Package (With additional 1 hour as freebie for bridal fair booking and P500 off for booking Wink)
More than a month before the wedding, I made the initiative to email Caryl (our AE) to start working on the layout and backdrop design. I sent her copies of our invitation so they could work out a design that will be cohesive with our invitation. A copy of our logo was also sent since I wanted to incorporate them onto the backdrop.
It took her a week to acknowledge my email and then I had to make a follow up after another week since we haven't gotten any response from her. When I got the proposals, I was disappointed especially with the layout kasi parang wala akong pinadalang copy ng invitation namin. Di man lang na-resemble ang design. And as you could see, di man lang nilinis yung border ng logo namin (see the white line?). Halatang pinatong. Ano ba yung graphic artist na yun?
So what I did is I drafted a design and had them copy it na lang. Buti na lang at na-gets naman ng artist nila at umayos na ang itsura.
On the wedding day, I have no complaints. Our guests loved the Photobooth. The pictures were crisp and their assistants are really nice. They properly turned-over to us the CDs of the pictures and our tarpaulin backdrop after the event. Saka honest sila kasi sinoli nila yung sobrang P500 sa payment namin :)
OVERALL RATING: 4.5 (I would have given them a 5 if not for the design dilemma.)
More than a month before the wedding, I made the initiative to email Caryl (our AE) to start working on the layout and backdrop design. I sent her copies of our invitation so they could work out a design that will be cohesive with our invitation. A copy of our logo was also sent since I wanted to incorporate them onto the backdrop.
It took her a week to acknowledge my email and then I had to make a follow up after another week since we haven't gotten any response from her. When I got the proposals, I was disappointed especially with the layout kasi parang wala akong pinadalang copy ng invitation namin. Di man lang na-resemble ang design. And as you could see, di man lang nilinis yung border ng logo namin (see the white line?). Halatang pinatong. Ano ba yung graphic artist na yun?
So what I did is I drafted a design and had them copy it na lang. Buti na lang at na-gets naman ng artist nila at umayos na ang itsura.
On the wedding day, I have no complaints. Our guests loved the Photobooth. The pictures were crisp and their assistants are really nice. They properly turned-over to us the CDs of the pictures and our tarpaulin backdrop after the event. Saka honest sila kasi sinoli nila yung sobrang P500 sa payment namin :)
OVERALL RATING: 4.5 (I would have given them a 5 if not for the design dilemma.)
Lights, Sounds and Projector/Screen | Cybersound Pro
PESO POWER: Php 6,000 (Audio and Lighting equipments with special effects + AV equipment - Epson 2500 Lumens LCD Projector and 6x8 tripod screen). Email me for the full specs.
For our L&S, I first inquired with one popular supplier sa W@W, Rejectkrew, But they were already booked on that day but Elmer was willing to assign his second team to us. Myke then said that it would better that we look for a L&S supplier that also rents out LCD projectors and screens so we will be transacting with one supplier only.
I emailed most of the L&S and LCD projector suppliers found at the supplier directory of the W@W site but got no reply with most of them. We then decided to give them a call in case they're too busy to answer emails right away. I guess we got lucky that Bobby answered our call and meron na siya ng mga kailangan namin. Added bonus na rin yung experience nila to set up sa Casa Blanca.
Walang naging problem on the day of the wedding. Para di na kami maabala sa pag-burn ng songs into CDs, we made a playlist na lang and lent them use my laptop na lang. On cue naman ang mga songs especially for the programme. No noisy feedbacks when the mics were used and the projector specs was enough naman for our wedding. Akala ko kasi e baka di kayanin kasi morning wedding kami at baka maging whitewash lang siya.
Their equipment was also enough for our friend who sang live with acoustic guitar. Sa kanila na rin yung bubble and fog machines which were used for our entrance and first dance.
OVERALL RATING: 5 (I would have given them a slightly lower rate because Bobby backed out at the last minute when we were to supposed to meet him during the final detailing. Medyo nangamba na nga ako kasi we'd never had the chance to meet him personally before the wedding. But despite all that, they still delivered well so 5 pa rin siya. At... di ko pa rin siya (Bobby) na-meet personally kahit nung mismong wedding. Ha ha ha. Busy na kasi kami :P)
*Cocktails and Reception Music - Playlist created by the couple comprising of tracks from the albums of the Vitamin String Quartet and of Vanessa Mae.
For our L&S, I first inquired with one popular supplier sa W@W, Rejectkrew, But they were already booked on that day but Elmer was willing to assign his second team to us. Myke then said that it would better that we look for a L&S supplier that also rents out LCD projectors and screens so we will be transacting with one supplier only.
I emailed most of the L&S and LCD projector suppliers found at the supplier directory of the W@W site but got no reply with most of them. We then decided to give them a call in case they're too busy to answer emails right away. I guess we got lucky that Bobby answered our call and meron na siya ng mga kailangan namin. Added bonus na rin yung experience nila to set up sa Casa Blanca.
Walang naging problem on the day of the wedding. Para di na kami maabala sa pag-burn ng songs into CDs, we made a playlist na lang and lent them use my laptop na lang. On cue naman ang mga songs especially for the programme. No noisy feedbacks when the mics were used and the projector specs was enough naman for our wedding. Akala ko kasi e baka di kayanin kasi morning wedding kami at baka maging whitewash lang siya.
Their equipment was also enough for our friend who sang live with acoustic guitar. Sa kanila na rin yung bubble and fog machines which were used for our entrance and first dance.
OVERALL RATING: 5 (I would have given them a slightly lower rate because Bobby backed out at the last minute when we were to supposed to meet him during the final detailing. Medyo nangamba na nga ako kasi we'd never had the chance to meet him personally before the wedding. But despite all that, they still delivered well so 5 pa rin siya. At... di ko pa rin siya (Bobby) na-meet personally kahit nung mismong wedding. Ha ha ha. Busy na kasi kami :P)
*Cocktails and Reception Music - Playlist created by the couple comprising of tracks from the albums of the Vitamin String Quartet and of Vanessa Mae.
Do-It-Yourself | Grace
Planning a wedding is really costly and one way to cut down costs is to DIY some wedding stuffs especially those that are just "nice to haves". Consider your budget (again) and your time when doing DIY projects since you still have to source out some materials and you have to have spare time to finish your project.
These are some items that are our labor of love :) So get inspired and happy crafting!
These are some items that are our labor of love :) So get inspired and happy crafting!
|
|
|
|
|