After the Proposal

I have a very strong advice to couples who have been steady dating and would like to proceed to the next level: The first thing to do immediately after the proposal, and even before announcing the engagement, is to go to a pre-marriage seminar, or pre-cana seminar. I have two very good reasons for this. First, is to avoid huge expenses go to waste in case of engagement break-up. Second, and most importantly, is to make the bond between the couple more solid after learning many things about each other.

There are so many seminars being given by parishes, but the best ones would be the stay-in weekend. Such seminars are being offered by Discovery Weekend (DW) or the Catholic Engaged Encounter (CEE). Topics taken up are the sacrament of matrimony, how to deal with your partner, communication and dialogue, family planning, intimacy and spirituality.

I feel bad for the couple and their families whenever a wedding does not push thru. It's hard enough dealing with the emotional stress, but the financial strain makes it even difficult to accept.

This seminar has been taken for granted by people. Majority of the couples take this only because it is a requirement of the catholic church. And they take it after hiring most, if not all, the suppliers or almost very near the wedding date. Thus, we have seen several couples break up almost a month before the wedding. Some reasons could be because one or both found out they are not yet prepared for the married life; or that they are not really that compatible with each other.

However, I have also seen couples, and this is the majority, who are more in love with each other after taking the seminar. I found out that they are closer and more bonded to each other.

By the way, although the seminars are mostly sponsored by the catholic church, I understand that other religious affiliations are also welcome at the DW and the CEE.

So take my advice: after giving the ring and she said "YES", plan to hie off for a weekend together. After all, isn't it nice to be with each other, learn more about each other and know where you are going just after you decide to live together for the rest of your life?

Mardi Gras Debut Celebration

We had a very wonderful time at the Mardi Gras themed debut of Nicole Audri Belo held last March 6 (2009) at the Palacio de Manila. The decor and ambience was truly one of the most festive ones I've handled, very true to the spirit of a Mardi Gras. As soon as the guests arrived, masks, colorful beads of necklaces and bracelets for the ladies and masks for the gentlemen were handed out from fur-covered baskets by little girls wearing crowns on their heads. At the foyeur, guests pose for pictorial in front of a colorful backdrop and the sign "AUDRI at 18" in glittering letters.

Then guests passed the big arch to go inside the ballroom to find giant masks and balloons in various colors and sizes hanging all over with the mood lighting providing the festive ambience. The stage had pillars, masks, the sun, the moon and arches made of papier-machés.

Mardi Gras festivities are always marked by a queen and her royal court. And what a beautiful queen, or I would rather say, Princess, was Nicole Audri that night! She was radiant with her royal court of handsome gentlemen in suits and lovely ladies in formal dresses.

The program was so entertaining: songs from cousins and friends; dances upon dances also perfomed by uncles, cousins, friends and even by her grandpa! The dances were indefatigably choreographed by Pio Llenado. My ever faithful emcee, Ben Redulla provided the smooth flow of the program. Even the poignant traditional candle ceremony was not without tears flowing from the guests as each family and friend greeted and wished our debutante the best hapy birthday wishes. When the party was in full swing, the Wild cocktails bar was opened and a live band performed as everyone partied! Truly a real grand Mardi Gras celebration!

Just watch the pictures I posted here care of Mian Sta. Cruz, Audri's first cousin, and Mian's friend, Prince of Graham Photography. These 2 budding photographers should be watched as they are really very very good!

The Oriental Wedding Dream Team

The Oriental Wedding Dream Showcase was put together by a team of event professionals who have had extensive experience in organizing Asian-inspired events. I personally invited these suppliers because for the times that I have worked with them, I admire their passion for their work, the results of that passion, and their professionalism. Mind you, they are not limited to the oriental theme, but ask them to do anything, and as long as it is doable, they will do it for you!

Here they are: The Oriental Wedding Dream Theme team:

MERLENE J. MARCELO COUTURE

MERLENE'S PASSION, YOUR DREAM

Merlene, a true romantic, is passionate in making a couple's dream wedding come true, specially in designing and creating wedding ensembles. Whether the inspiration be traditional Filipiniana, a western princess, a Grecian goddess or an oriental empress, each of Merlene's creations showcases a unique detailed artwork immortalized in fine embroidery and beadwork with silver threading. Merlene prides herself for providing each couple with personalized service and for creating elegant wedding ensembles with exquisite finish, all at reasonable prices. With a workforce of over 60 skilled people, Merlene's shop is noted for punctual delivery and finishing wedding ensembles in a much shorter period of time compared to industry standards.

Merlene derives a lot of her artistic design inspirations from various artworks and architectural structures in each of the places she visits. Merlene is fortunate to personally view the latest fashion trends in major cities in Europe, Asia and the Americas, like the fashion capital cities of Paris and Milan, the free-flowing fashion city of New York, the artistic and sensual cities of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janiero, and the more traditional cities of Beijing and Tokyo. She is also able to source the latest fabrics and fashion accessories which can be used for wedding ensembles and which are not generally available in the Philippines. Through artful imagination and detailed craftsmanship, Merlene is able to combine the latest in fashion trends around the globe with the brides and groom's personal style to create a unique artwork and design for their wedding ensemble on their wedding day.

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TAGAYTAY HIGHLANDS INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB, INC.

The Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club is home to Asia's most exciting golf course, as well as a plethora of sports and recreational amenities for golfers and non-golfers alike. It has the most magical and scenic view of the famous “volcanic island within a lake on an island within a lake on an island”. – the Taal Volcano and Taal Lake.

Tagaytay Highlands boasts of its very challenging 18 holes of golf, and a cable car transport system - the Philippines' first. This Swiss-engineered system provides magnificent views of the golf course and its surroundings. It also has a Funicular, maybe the only one in the country today. It is a transport system which takes members and guests to and from the Highlands (summit terminal) / Midlands (base terminal) Clubhouses while offering a panoramic view of Taal and the Midlands Complex.

Tagaytay Highlands has so much to offer, not only because of the many amenities it has, but also because of the beautiful chilly weather of Tagaytay making it a very popular venue for out-of-town weddings. Scenic view, chilly weather, and various amenities notwithstanding, Tagaytay Highlands offers a wide range of gastronomic delights with their various specialty restaurants serving 5-star standard international cuisines. The most famous restaurant where most visitors dine is the Highlands China Palace, an authentic Chinese restaurant. The chefs at the Highlands China Palace are either from China, or trained in China.

So if your heart’s desire is to have an Oriental-themed wedding, or more specifically a Chinese wedding, there is no better place than to have it at Tagaytay Highlands where your guests can savor authentic Chinese gourmet cuisine.

Other amenities of Tagaytay Highlands include: Spa services, Sports Center, Amphitheater, Holy Family Chapel at the Highlands, Madre De Dios Chapel at the Midlands – for catholic wedding ceremonies, The Animal Farm, Day Care Center , Various shops: Golf pro shops, Deli and Souvenir Shop, The Gardens Botanical Park, The Greenhouse - hydroponically-grown vegetables and herbs can be purchased, Helipads, Medical Clinic, and Beauty Salon.

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VIENNA CAKES

Vienna Bakeshop, which makes Vienna Cakes, traces its roots to Vienna Bakery, a bread and pastries enterprise owned, managed and operated by a Spanish family since 1901.

In October 1994, entrepreneurs Wilson and Josephine Co Leng bought the rights to the business. Subsequently, Ms. Josie Co Leng studied at the Asian Baking Institute and Vienna Bakeshop began offering all-occasion and traditional cakes in 1995. Vienna Cakes are highly sought for their distinctive marshmallow or boiled icing and delicious fondant icing. Ms. Josie Co Leng is a member of the International Cake Exploration Society.

A lot of Philippine celebrities demand the distinctive Vienna Cakes taste for weddings, birthdays and other special occasions. She made the wedding cakes of Raymart and Claudine (Baretto) Santiago, and Christopher and Gladys (Reyes) Roxas, among others. She also made birthday cakes for Sharon Cuneta, Claudine Baretto, Judy Ann Santos, Kris Aquino and Dolphy. She is a member of the International Cake Exploration Society.

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ALEXANDRA PETALS & FOLIAGE

Larry Natividad, graduated with a degree of Business Management major in Marketing, but he wanted to be an architect for he is more of an artist and he loves to design. His father was a very well-known florist and flower distributor in Manila in the ‘60s. So it was not surprising that together with his wife, Winnie, they established the Alexandra Petals & Foliage in 1994.

One of the busiest and most in-demand event stylist and florist in the country today, Larry is an innovator. He was one of the first, if not the first, who went into styling wedding reception venues and designing props for theme weddings. He built different props and décor according to the theme that a couple desires. His events, whether corporate or social (weddings, debuts, anniversaries), are marked by beautiful pillars, lush foliage, fountains, draperies and mood lighting creating a truly beautiful ambience. He has done various themes like Lord of the Rings, The Little Mermaid, Ice Age, and Secret Garden.

Whatever is the theme he creates, Larry who is a “hands-on” person will personally be there on the job supervising the whole thing. And one thing is sure, whatever he sketches on his drawing board for the client, will be the very thing implemented on the day of the event.

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SPLENDID SPECIALTIES Novelties and Souvenirs

Splendid Specialties started out as a hobby, founded by two fabulous sisters who have decided to embark on a career that would cater to their talents and creativity. Their passion is centered on making unique products with a touch of modernity & simplicity. But what clearly sets them apart is their remarkable concern for the interests of their clients.

“Our goal is to work hand in hand with our clients. We aim for constant interaction to completely grasp what they really want so we can create gifts that undoubtedly reflect their personalities. That’s why our gifts are special, extraordinary, individually made and not mass produced.” –Sheila

“We create one-of-a-kind gifts just for you. With a reasonable budget, whatever the theme, whatever the occasion is, we can come up with gifts that will make a lasting impression. We also want your guests to feel special & appreciated too.” –Mawee

For an oriental themed wedding, Splendid Specialties made a beautiful Chinese take-out box. Inspired by the boxes of chinese take-out food, Splendid Specialties’ version transforms it to a functional miniature bag. For a modern touch, using combinations of auspicious colors, the exterior part of the bag will be done in patent leather of gold or bronze, while red or green suede will be used for the interior lining.

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THE SOCIAL CONNECTION, Events Coordination Services

This is moi! I dont need to introduce myself, just log on to my website . But I would like to thank my team: Merlene, the jetsetting designer; Josie, the innovator cake maker; Sheila, the ever-smiling soft-spoken souvenir supplier; the indefatigable Larry; Yasmin and Lette of Tagaytay Highlands, both ever so accommodating. These people did not have second thoughts when I invited them to the showcase. They have given of themselves to this event with their usual passion. To you: CHEERS! May you continue to reap and enjoy success!

DREAM WEDDING THEMES Bridal Showcase

Gosh! I never thought I have not blogged for 4 months. Those are the months of October to January... Go figure... These are the peak months of events, most especially weddings. And to top it all, we're preparing for the first bridal showcase of PAWP. We are so excited with this project! I can guarantee to all that there will be something different in this wedding event. Admission is free, and there will be raffle prizes throughout the day. So all you lovebirds, debutantes and anniversarians out there, come and feast your eyes to various wedding theme showcases: Oriental, Moroccan, Mardi Gras, Winter Wonderland, Modern Filipiniana, Tropical Beach, Hollywood Glamour and Renaissance. There will be photographers, videographers, jewelry, souvenir, accessories, make-up artists, and a host of other suppliers showcasing also their own products and services.

DATE: FEBRUARY 11-12-13, 2009

TIME: 10:00am - 9:00PM (Wed & Thurs), 10:00AM - 10:00PM (Fri)

FASHION SHOW: 6:30PM, Friday, Feb. 13, 2009

Martha Stewart Weddings

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It is just wonderful that Martha Stewart's WEDDINGS magazine is now here in the Philippines! Aside from being locally available, the real beauty of it is that the articles are appropriate for Philippine setting. Some articles were culled from the US version, but these articles are very much adaptable here. So now, we get the best from East and West... and at the most reasonable price already!

They had a grand launching last Sept. 17 at Manila Pen's Conservatory and I think everyone in the wedding industry was there. Wedding planners, photographers, florists, cake makers, make-up artists, souvenir suppliers were there. The set-up was very much Martha Stewart. I believe most guests were wishing that Martha herself was there, as I did.

As usual, there were the Manila Pen's savory hors' de oeuvres, scones (since it was supposed to be a tea party), and lots and lots of sweets... Any one with high sugar or diabetes should not be there! :-) Gosh! cupcakes, pastillas, all assortment of tarts and tartlettes, meringue and macarons, and so many others too many to mention... Well, it was a very good, or I must say "sweet" ending to my filling lunch earlier at Gloria Maris for Linda Lazo's bday blow-out.

But one thing caught everybody's eyes: the flower pot mini-cakes with assorted pink flowers, and everything edible including the pot. I was told that it was made by Peachy Juban of Shortcrust. She happens to be the daughter of one of my co-members in BLD, and a neighbor of our friend Tony Suiza. I just had to bring one home. I couldnt get myself to eat it there because I was already full (!), and it was so pretty to eat right away..

I recommended it to my bride who's having a garden-themed wedding, and she loved it. So I had to look for the number of Peachy and call her up. After several days, we finally got connected. This morning, she gave me her number and I was able to get the info I needed. I also learned that it was called POTS DU CREME... Hopefully, we clinch the deal...

Spanish Songs and Luis Miguel

My October 25 wedding will have a Spanish Theme, and Larry Natividad will be doing the flowers and reception styling, complete with props. For the music to be provided by MPO, my bride wanted to have some spanish songs, interspersed with english. So I made a little google searching for popular spanish songs. And I fell in love with Luis Miguel and his songs!!! (sorry, darling, you're still my first love!) I do not even understand the words, but the melody and tiempo are very beautiful!

Luismi as he is called is muy guapo! And the songs he sings are really full of love and romance. Grabe! You should listen to his "Como Yo Te Ame", "Sabor A Mi" and "Amenecer"... Even his Historia de Un Amor, a very old love song, is better than the one sang by Julio Iglesias. Although the voice of Julio has a very unique sexy quality (listen to his "All of You" with Diana Ross), Luismi's voice is full and has a wider range.

Now I realize why they say that Latinos are very romantic. Their music is full of love and the melodies are really sexy and sensual... And if you watch the you tube of "Amenecer", wow, the scenes are bordering on X rating...hehehe... When Gilan (my apo) came and saw me watching it, I had to transfer to another site :-).. But the video of "Como Yo Te Ame" has very beautiful scenery of sunrise, sunsets, moons and stars, and so he even asked me to repeat it, hehe...

I think I have to buy Luis Miguel's "Segundo Romance" album because that's where these songs are contained. But his first grammy was the 1st "Romance" album. See, I even had to look up and read about him! Hahaha! That's how in love I got! They posted a video with his pictures as he was growing up ("La Gloria Eres Tu" another beautiful song!), ayyayay talagang muy guapo!

I dare you to listen, and tell me if you wont fall in love with your guy or even with Luis Miguel with these spanish songs!!!

Villa Paraiso GK Village

As a member of the BLD-GK Ministry of Bukas Loob sa Diyos Community (BLD), We attended a Gawad Kalinga (GK) activity at Villa Paraiso in Sun Vally Parañaque City. Gerry and I did the survey work going from house to house.

One thing i confirmed, the attitude of a person changes with a change of environment. And this time, for the better. As one beneficiary said, owning your own house and in such an improved condition brought them dignity. And now he looks forward to adding/doing something for the house. He is now saving to add ceiling to their 2nd floor. Actually they have done so much already to beautify and improve what was given them: repainted, new tiles, a 2nd floor and improved kitchen. They used to pay P1000/month for a 6 sqm room in the old squatter area. Now they just pay P500/month to the city hall for the lot. GK gave them the house (20 sqm) after the houses in that area were burned and gutted by fire.

In my heart, I still want to do somethng for them. I pray that the Lord give me more time and resources to be able to take care of our lesser fortunate brothers and sisters who are just victims of the way our government has been run all these years..

I pray that more people can reach out to them. After all, how much do we really need a day to live?

The BLD Manila District is now seeking dontations to build 32 houses in this area. Any generous soul out there?