There Goes My Commitment-Free Food Tasting…

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March 25, 2012… the day we booked our first ever supplier. We were in just for another free food tasting without the slightest intention of making reservations. Or so we thought…

I learned of Josiah’s Grand Food Tasting event from their website. Since I’ve been hearing good comments from colleagues regarding this caterer, it immediately caught my attention. I thought it would be nice to actually get to try their food and see for ourselves if the raves our true. After all, we are in scout for a good caterer. I pre-registered for the event and we arrived there at around half-past-eleven on a cloudy and gloomy Sunday. We were surprised to see several other wedding suppliers when we entered the hall. Since we were still waiting for our turn to be accommodated by Ms. MeAnn, our assigned Josiah’s staff, we just looked around first and checked if there is any other supplier in the room that might catch our interest.

Once we saw that Ms. MeAnn was free already, we immediately proceeded to her area so we can start discussing their packages. First impression, she looked really jolly and friendly. She made her spiel about what they have to offer and other freebies that we can get if we book them that day. The offer she made was really good because of the numerous pricey freebies she’s giving away at a very reasonable discounted rate. We discussed several scenarios, asked regarding possible price increases, and also date rescheduling. She answered all our queries happily and at the end of it all, waited for our answer if we’ll proceed with the reservation. Mind you, she was not that pushy, but of course it was still hard to answer her right away because I feel that Adrin and I should discuss first privately and more importantly, we’ve yet to taste the food. Hehe.  So Adrin told her that we can’t give our answer right away and she took this as a cue and asked us to eat and enjoy the food they prepared and see the setup of the venue.

The theme they had for the day was Roadtrip. We saw mock-road signs all over the place. They also used street signs as signage for the different food stations. Flowers that were used for the centerpieces were bright and those that can typically be seen along the roads when traveling.

Love Story Buffet: A Josiah's Grand Food Tasting

We were served potato soup as soon as we took a seat. After enjoying the creamy and filling soup, we immediately headed to the buffet tables. First stop, Interactive Salad Bar. Here the greens were served in a cute cocktail glass and you can choose your preferred dressing. Next stop, Main Courses. There was an array of different dishes and we enjoyed almost all(I found the pork with apple dish way too fatty). We lined-up next for the Gourmet Pasta Bar. It showcases their on-the spot cooking service where you choose your noodles, ingredients, and pasta sauce – and have it cooked (more like tossed in the pan) in front of you before being served. We tried both red and white sauces and happily finished them. Unfortunately when we were already up for dessert, the dessert bar was already empty.

While we were actually eating, Adrin and I already discussed whether we liked the food or not. At the end, we found ourselves really satisfied and convinced of booking them. We had a major concern though, to book them means that we’ll spill the beans and tell them that our real wedding date is January 2014 and not January 2013. I surely cannot do that. I’m certain that if I’m the one to admit that to Ms. MeAnn, I’d feel really guilty about lying to her and tears will be streaming down my face even before I can open my mouth. Haha. Yes, I’m that iyakin. So we agreed that that was for Adrin to do. Teehee. =P

We requested for Ms. MeAnn's presence again so we can provide her some of our comments, tell our real wedding date and ask for a re-computation of the package. While Adrin was telling her the real scenario, I was just looking down at my plate the whole time teary-eyed. I was that ashamed and guilty. Haha. Anyway, she just brushed it off and just told us about the additional cost to the initial computation she gave since our date is still too far from today and they can only give the initial quotation for events until mid-2013. We’re okay with that since we understand that of course there will be price increases from now until that date and they will surely want to factor that in the quotation they’ll give us now. She excused herself so she can discuss and secure approval first from her manager and came back with the new rates. They were really nice to give us very minimal additional and so we booked them right away, paid for the reservation fee, and signed the draft contract. We’re officially a Josiah’s couple!  

We were such happy campers when we walked out of 1Esplanade. We found out that planning and researching for suppliers is fun, BUT actually making a reservation is way way more exciting!

Cheers!

Of Bridal Fair and Food Tastings

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It has already been a part of my routine to check bridal fair schedules. Luckily right after the Feb event that we attended, there's another one scheduled this March. Not only that, VS&F and Center Table Catering were both holding food tasting events on that weekend. Perfect!All the more reason for us to spend a day of our weekend for wedding preps again. You guys must know the drill by now. I told Adrin about it, we agreed to go, and I pre-registered for all 3 events. We arranged our schedule like this; (1)VS&F food tasting around lunch time; (2) supplier scouting; (3) Center Table food tasting as late merienda/early dinner. Strategic right?!  Upon arriving at SMX convention center, we immediately registered and we were handed our name tags and claim stub for the bag souvenir and other giveaways. 

First stop, VS&F’s area to have our lunch. Hihi. Seems like most other participants also thought strategically so when we got there all the staff of VS&F had their hands full already. We were asked to sit first and wait for a sales person who can attend to us. While waiting for food to be served, I can’t help but notice how nice they have styled the area (was not able to take pictures since it was not allowed). The theme was Nautical with hues of Red, Blue and White. They had anchors and floaters hung on the wall, while each table was decorated with a wooden ship. Bottles filled with sand served as table numbers. Long minutes passed and we were served with soup. Their menu that day was Seafood Chowder and Creamy Spinach Soup. Both hungry, we gorged the soup and made our evaluations. They were very good so we noted in our sheets our rating. It took quite a longer time for them to serve us the main courses. When they finally arrived, Adrin and I took turns trying each course and agreed to only comment after both of us have tried the dish. I cannot remember anymore what we had but in general, we find most of their dishes a bit bland but some were noted as passable. Dessert came and they were presented really well. As for taste, let’s just say that our eyes were more pleased. We have already finished eating and yet no one came to discuss about their services so we just decided to go around the hall first and just return later to check their packages.

By now we realized that when in fairs,it's more fruitful to focus on suppliers for one key element of the wedding than just go and check everything. That's what we exactly did and concentrated on two things; caterers and ring suppliers. Not in to miss our eyed caterers and venues, we ensured to pass by Ibarra’s and Tamayo’s booth.  Events venue was also prioritized since were still not really decided where to hold our reception. After that we went to every stall there is of rings supplier to canvass. Seeing all the designs offered, we were able to note a few from several suppliers including the prices.We did not intend to book back then since our wedding is still on 2014 and we want to tick off the major items first like church, caterer, and venue.  With a couple more hours to spare, we also checked the stalls of the couturiers and their gown displays. 

It was a bit late already and with still one food tasting to attend, we decided to go back to VS&F first before proceeding to Center Table. Sadly even with available staff, VS&F did not accommodate us to discuss their services but instead just handed out a copy of their packages with the corresponding rates. Let down, we just proceeded to Aliw theater for Center Table’s event. Stepping in to the venue, I immediately had a feeling that I wouldn’t be much impressed by them. The decorations were so simple, with tables adorned only by tall vases with a ball of roses on them (sorry, forgot to take pictures). The walls were bare too. Uh-oh, not so good so far. I just kept mum about my observations first and set them aside so I can assess the food. There was not much guest so there was no queue at the buffet table. We took a bit of everything from soup to main courses and desserts. While eating, we again noted down our ratings to each dish on the menu list that was given to us. I was right; I was not impressed by their dishes and knew that Adrin wasn’t as well. Their account executive approached us after we finished our desserts to discuss their services. He was very nice and accommodating, even throwing out suggestions on possible venues. We listened to what he has to say and made some clarifications on the inclusions of their packages. After, we told him that we’ll discuss first and just contact him should we decide to book them. As soon as we got in the car, Adrin and I both decided that we’ll take Center Table out of our choices.

Even if we were not able to consider a final supplier for any item, it was still a fruitful day for us. Until the next fair and food tasting event!

Cheers!

Enjoy the Planning!

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I came across this short but sweet article and thought that this is a really good tip to every other couple out there who's preparing for their wedding. Happy preps!


Click on the photo to redirect to article page

Wedding planning: How to enjoy the process | Perfect Wedding Guide

Cheers!

To-do's: 4-5 months ahead

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Here is the second installment of the wedding checklist series. As we near the big day, the tasks gets more complicated. 

• Compile guest list and organize addresses.
• Arrange for wedding gown fittings.
• Book a florist.
• Book a photographer/videographer.
• Book musicians/entertainment.
• Book your wedding transport.
• Book caterers.
• Start fitting for the female entourage's dresses.
• Select outfits for male entourage members.
• Assist mothers with selection of their outfits.
• Organize an emcee for the celebration.
• Confirm your stationery.
• Order the wedding cake.
• Select wedding bands and have it engraved.
• Begin choosing souvenirs or tokens for sponsors.

It would be good to note as well that by this time, the couple must have finalized their choices already and completed the pre-work before booking each supplier. Pre-work should at least include the following:

1. Commitment-free Food tasting. Take advantage of the grand food tasting events being organized by caterers from time to time. This is a good opportunity for you to see their sample setup and most especially get to taste their food. It is also the perfect venue to inquire about their packages and its inclusions, as well as rates or fees for other services you'd like to avail. Don't worry because you're not obliged to book them right then and there.

2. Check sample output for photo/video service. Browse several albums of the photographers to see their shooting style. You might also want to check their album layouts to see which ones appeal to you the most. For videos and same-day edits, take advantage of online sites being maintained by the videographers to showcase their works. Watch as many videos as you can.

3. Flower inspirations. Research the type of flowers you prefer. You can also note several pictures for your pegs. Then when booking florists, share your pictures and be sure to ask if they can provide you those flowers. Be flexible enough to note down alternatives just in case the flowers they source during your wedding are not of good quality or not available entirely. Surely you do not want to get crappy flowers (due to uncontrollable events), just because you stuck with your choice. 

I hope this helps!

Cheers!

Bridal Fair Newbie

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Being the OC person that I am, weeks after being engaged, I began my research on all things wedding related. I used to see advertisements of bridal fairs in the past so this is one of the first things I checked out on the wedding and bridal sites I’ve visited. Then I came across an ad for the Weddings and Debuts 2012 Bridal Fair scheduled last February 17-19, 2012. Filled with excitement, I made a mental note to tell Adrin about it and ask him if he’d like to go and check things out. Good thing he’s also as interested as I was because we’re in agreement that (1) we have to start our preps somewhere, and that (2) it’s better to have an idea of how things work as early as now. After that, I immediately pre-registered for the said event and blocked-off our calendars for it.

Armed with nothing but open minds and a few shortlisted suppliers (those that I’ve noted after researching online), we braved the crowds of SM Megatrade Hall on a Saturday afternoon after the quick registration. It was overwhelming to see a sea of suppliers covering everything that goes into a wedding. Since this is the first one we attended, our major goal is to have awareness. We looked around, made sure that we passed each aisle, and collected all the fliers being handed out.

Having a wedding almost 2 years from then, answering questions about our wedding date proved to be a challenge. We surely do not want to appear too excited nor do we want them to lose interest entertaining us should they learn that it’s still 1yr. 11mos. away.  The solution? Move the year a notch. The whole time, we were telling them that it’ll be on January 2013. Yes I know, it was a naughty thing to do, but it’s harmless. So please let us off it. J

Since we established weeks before that one of our priority suppliers to invest on aside from food is photo and video service, we went to each supplier stall and meticulously checked their works. There we were leafing through their albums and watching sample videos that they were playing. We even checked some stalls twice so we can compare them better with the others. We also asked random things like average number of events they cover per day and whether we have a say on what goes into the albums. Let’s not forget the price reasonability. Of course we also have a price range to consider, so aside from inspecting samples, we also asked about their rates. This should be pondered on since we do not want to splurge much on photo/video to the point that other wedding components are sacrificed.

After going around for 2 hours, our feet were already hurting and my arms were tired from carrying what was already a big pile of service package hand-outs and fliers. But that was just a small thing compared to what we have achieved that day. We walked out of the hall with more knowledge of things that should be arranged for our big day and more or less an idea of our non-negotiables. Additionally, we also selected a top candidate for our photo and video supplier. Productive eh? Not bad for a first, I say. There’s still a ton of fairs to attend out there, and surely we’ll come more prepared next time.

Cheers!

The Chosen Date

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Even before Adrin's proposal, we've already talked about our wedding countless times. Not too detailed of course, but we have a target year at the least. It's not 2012 for the reasons that (1) it's too soon, (2) we're (or at least I am) not yet that prepared, and (3) we need to save more since we're paying for it ourselves and it’s not really cheap. 2013 is scrapped by me just for the plain reason that I don’t like the number. So the year is… (drumroll please)… 2014!

Yes 2014. Now we have to choose the exact date. Months marked with family celebrations are taken out of the list since we would like to have a new month to look forward to and celebrate every year. That leaves us with very few options actually. Then I suggested to him, why not have it just around our dating anniversary, which is January. This will save us from the confusion of choosing which date to celebrate between our wedding and dating anniversaries in the years to come. He was sold with the idea so January 2014 it is.

Zeroing in on the date is quite easy. Naturally we’d like it on January 21, our exact anniversary date. Unfortunately that date on 2014 falls on a Tuesday, and we do not exactly prefer a weekday wedding.  We just picked the nearest weekend to it and we’re down to Jan18 or Jan19. Just by looking at the numbers, hands down, our choice is January 18. It’s aesthetically better, flows from our lips smoother, and is more pleasant to our ears.

Whew, finally! Our chosen date is January 18, 2014!

You might think by now that we’re such weirdos for going through all those, but hey, we only get to have one wedding date right? We better like it to bits!

Cheers!

To-do's: 6-12 months ahead

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I've been consolidating wedding checklists a few weeks after Adrin's proposal. As someone who has zero experience on wedding planning, I would like to arm myself (and my H2B) the right tools that will help us make our ideal wedding come to life. I've consolidated different checklists and came up with a comprehensive one. Now I'll be sharing the first items that couples must take care of when planning for a wedding.

• Announce engagement to family and close friends.
• Choose and finalize wedding date.
• Estimate the budget and consult with you and your fiance's families.
• Decide on the theme - formal or informal, big or small - and color motifs.
• Approximate the size of your guest list.
• Send out save-the-dates to all relevant guests.
• Decide on the time of day you want the ceremonies to take place.
• Book a wedding coordinator, if desired. Select one which you have the most rapport with.
• Book your church or ceremony location.
• Look for a reception venue and book as soon as possible.
• Arrange appointments with your priest or civil marriage celebrant.
• Start working on the church or civil registry requirements. Obtain the necessary documents, which may sometimes take time.
• Select principal and secondary sponsors and confirm their participation. (Will-you-be cards)
• Select wedding entourage and confirm their participation. (Will-you-be cards)
• Select liturgical members and confirm participation.
• Start choosing the wedding gown designer and set an initial meeting to discuss style preference.
• Start looking for barongs/suits.
• Make a shortlist of possible suppliers (photographer, caterer, cake-maker, videographer, photographer, musicians, etc.) and set initial meeting to discuss theme and budget.
• Discuss honeymoon destination and make travel bookings; update passports if necessary.
• Discuss your new home after the wedding.
• Draft your wedding invitations and misalettes, as approved by your church.
• Begin a health and beauty routine.

Let me know if there are other items not in the list, which you believe should be taken care of at once right after the engagement, so I can add it up. Based on this, are you on-track? :)

Cheers!

Intro

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Welcome to our blog! As a newly engaged couple, we're both excited and anxious as we think about the months leading up to our BIG day. I know it's still more than a year away-- but hey, as people who do projects as our day jobs, we know by heart that the success of a project (or event for this matter), is rooted to good planning, scheduling, and management. We'll be posting here our adventures, misadventures and what-nots as we search and book for suppliers for our biggest project thus far. :)

Cheers!