Our Wedding by Pat Uy

Some photos by Pat Uy are up on my multiply site. :)

Ed and I had a real blast reliving it again and again since we were able to get the softcopies from both our photographers, Pat & Ebe. There were tons and tons so it was crazy uploading only a few. :P

I thank everyone who came from all-over the world and can't wait to see you all again.
Thank you for sharing our big day with us!

Eddie & Cheryl

A Sneak Peek of MY BIG DAY & Supplier Ratings

Photo Credits: Aunt Memi...

********

Photo Credits: Josh

Supplier Ratings:
It's my turn to give this. I thank and appreciate all the other sisters who have helped me decide on my own suppliers in the past. All my suppliers performed as expected, some amazingly greater than I could have imagined.
Our wedding was perfect in our eyes. I hope our supplier ratings will inspire and help you all in your supplier bookings/research. Do not hesitate to email me further, if you have any questions about any of the above suppliers.

Church: San Agustin Church (MNL)
Rating: A++++
- money can resolve everything like extending 30 min before our time, opening and closing doors (twice)…best to prepare a letter of request, if you would want to go through this
- we were lucky at the wedding after ours backed out so we had 2.5hours to spare for the price of just 1 wedding since the extra 30 minutes before was only 5k…note for those getting married first in the afternoon 2pm. This is a good deal instead of paying for another whole new slot of 20k…so 5k versus 20k…what savings!
- my mom and I went back & forth to fix the misalette since our officiating priest would like it done as an Advent Sunday mass…lots and lots of approving & further approving but a necessary thing
- staff that do the actual work are always nice and “game” to help but it’s the administration that you will have to “sugar up”
- the photos that came out totally made it all worth it

Officiating Priest: Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite, SSP (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- my mom insisted we got our own priest to officiate our wedding since she wanted someone who would captivate the audience during homily and not also be forced to rush through the wedding
- great speaker and advisor
- hilarious and very lighthearted man…he was just great!

Hotel Preparations: Makati Shangri-La Hotel (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- this was a gift by one of my bridesmaid overseas
- service and handling was well done…though forgot to inform them that I’m a bridal room since the fuse triggered later in the morning
- definitely a big plus since the room is bigger, cleaner & totally got the “staircase shot” that I wanted with my gown
- we were able to borrow their "gown steamer" so my maids can steam my dress
- if you or one of your guest are a frequent hotel guest of any of the Shangri-La establishments, you can check if they have the “Golden Circle card”, which added so many great benefits like more snacks in the room, priority early check-in (got checked in at before 12pm to my bridal suite so my friend didn’t have to have her luggage in storage then move in the afternoon), extra benefits, etc
- got one of the best sleeps ever…very well-rested for the big day…priceless

Reception: Mandarin Oriental Hotel (MNL)
Rating: A++++
- pre-wedding staff like lighting, layout, head waiter and all were very cooperative as my mom and I visited the site often for our expected décor…always okay to view parties and set-ups (trust me, we’ve seen so many already)
- account executive is a bit “slower” for me (though my coordinator didn’t feel it…maybe because I already did most of the legwork already) since there were some delays on email and even when I was in Manila and my mom would follow-up, there would still be problems, miscommunication or delays
- on the day: food and service was great, could have informed my “contact persons” of the trouble, aside from my coordinator to not surprise us with the resolutions – Ed had to pay the same price for a beef to a chicken dish…a bit costly for just chicken
- added benefits since hubby got spill-over rooms…gave tons of freebees and function rooms for us that day like a tea ceremony room, photo room, storage room for our props, spill-over rooms, etc

HMUA: Jing Monis (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- no one can do my make-up right but this guy even after testing other HMUA (love him so much!)
- hilarious and a calming site…as if I was at the salon with him and we basically chatted up a storm
- we joked around the madness surrounding us that morning…since I was totally calm, cool and collected from a well rested sleep

Coordinator: The 3rd Party (MNL)

Rating: A++++

- courteous, professional and calming

- very detailed before and on the day…got great supplier recommendations and suggestions to avoid problems on that day

- happy with the services of Jojit & Amy

Bridal Car: Don Robert’s Bridal Car Service (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- competent and courteous driver
- easy to deal with and was able to show me the condition of the car before I booked it
- timely and professional

Bridal Gown: Central Weddings (HKG)
Rating: A++++++++++ (due to the great reviews of my dress)
- this is one “To-Die-For” dresses…my dream gown (I want to wear it again and again!)…no one but my mom and I know what it is…we kept everything and everything under-wraps for this one
- mom saw it in a magazine and told me to check it out…the rest is history
- fitting was at times tedious since I had to check every inch of detail/beading to have it fixed up
- the alterations are sub-contracted to another tailoring store so you would have to insist one’s rights to make sure that the seamstress comes to each of my fittings to have it fixed up…you really need your mom or someone dependable to check on you, back and forth, especially at the back, if you have something like mine
- if something is not right, check the photo or check with the designer again…one of my skirt folds came undone, making it look asymmetric, half-way along the many fittings. Good thing that I got my camera with me and saw old photos taken and a magazine photo of it to compare the complain…best to reinforce special stitching since none of the designers in Manila till fix or alter another designer’s gown…very tricky
- my mom realized (after hindsight) that my gown could have been shortened further on the front as it was seen as a bit wrinkled & too long by other people and in my photos
- I’ll be forever grateful for this store…even if the hassle was just too stressful at times…mom was there to absorb some of the stress with me

Bridal Hair Accessories: Golden Plaza Building (HKG)
Rating: A++++++++++
- a last minute find…good thing mom dragged me there again on our very last trip to HK
- after many accessories hunting, who knew that I’d find it there…one of the many great secrets of HKG but known for bridal attire and accessories

Bridal Shoes: Rene Caovilla (HKG)
Rating: A++++++++++
- this was one of the very first wedding items I got
- mom saw it at Lane Crawford even before my gown was ordered…it totally matched it!- decent height

Bridal Jewelry: on loan from mom
Rating: A++++++++++
- love my mom’s antique ring – totally minimalist when my gown is already beaded like there’s no tomorrow :P

Groom’s Attire: Bergamo (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- very nice…easy to deal with…professional and seamless

Groom’s Shoes: Traffic (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- fits good…easy to find (very fast)

Groom’s Tux Accessories: Kent & Curwen (HKG)
Rating: A++++++++++
- uniquely English bowtie…hubby is a big English man on the inside

Mom of the Bride’s Attire: Paul Cabral (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- the cloth and design were found by mom in a magazine (Bagley Mishka inspiration)
- delivery was down-to-the-wire even she went early to have it made and gave an earlier deadline

Mom of the Bride’s Shoes: Staccatto (HKG)
Rating: A++++++++++
- this was one of the most comfy shoe finds she found…she’s one happy camper on this one
- the shoes is great since it’s not beaded and wouldn’t get tangled to my mom’s beaded gown

Female Entourage’s Attire: Len Guiao (MNL)
Rating: A++++
- easy to work with and complain about anything
- will need a bit of checking if the style is good as it looks on paper to the real person; there were a few edits and changes but good enough for the price and the always-open-to-change attitude
- fitting is not as good as other higher-end designers’ but heck, personality and outlook works so well

Ring & Coinbearer’s Attire (not including bowtie): Jun Calby (MNL)
Rating: A++++
- home-service is a plus
- fast but will need a deposit immediately to buy cloth

Ring & Coinbearer’s Pillows: an American Embassy Bazaar find by my mom and altered by Len (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- altered well and was so impressive when Len brought it out for us to see…got me all shivers

Wedding Cord: Sylvia Santos (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- found it so fast…seamless service...makes it easier than having it custom-made since I see the finished product right there and then

Arrhea & Ring holders: designed by the bride and executed by Matus Jewelery (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- saw one of his works at a wedding fair…made sure to check-up on him for our arrhea…then this later evolved to a ring holder also…to match it with the pillows and all
- wanted a particular style/design; showed it to Alan and he was able to give me a proto-type within a week
- fast and easy though there were some errors to it…but they were able to correct the problem

Wedding Rings: J’s Concept (HKG) for the Groom; Chan Kwong Kee Jewelry Co. (HKG) for the Bride
Rating: A++++++++++
- groom wanted a simple ring so we got this off-the-rack; fast & easy to deal with; engraving came as an extra – though it was done very very nicely
- I wanted a particular antique-like design that I found online so I just had it made through a good friend’s referral, who also made her wedding ring. There’s no engraving anymore due to the diamond settings but totally happy that it turned out so well; professional and very easy to deal with; open to suggestions and will forewarn me of any problems with the ring design and its limitation

Cake: Shortcrust/Peachy Juban (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- my most fav and highly recommended supplier
- the one responsible for my “Moroccan lantern cake” (with real working lights in it!)
- everything on the cake and details like the tussles and the “glass-link” windows were all made by hardened sugar
- very creative; open to changes and suggestions
- always a real treat to meet-up to chat, discuss and gossip about everything and everything under-the-sun; hilarious
- she’s my super duper gal pal

Events Stylist: Henry Pascual (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- he and my mom’s chemistry and tandem worked out so well...I'm so thankful that Jun Hen MIA on me since this "heaven-sent" supplier came along to make my wedding one of the most memorable one
- can visualize a new thing and go over-the-top like what my mom wanted my wedding to be- very creative … oozing out from within and is always a pal even when my mom was driving the point of craziness with her pestering and following-up
- can forewarn problems and give suggestions
- pricey but definitely a well-worth investment since all of my flowers were super duper lovely and unique or rarely used; a lot of people especially got the flowers on our couple’s table…oh, and the backdrop was amazing! It’s all real! My mom told me that there were couples who went up to our table and got photos of them on it even before we did our grand entrance. Not one, two or three…but about 5 sets of couples!

Moroccan Lamps: Moroccan Treasures (MNL)
Votive lights and candle holders: 168 Mall (MNL)
Wish tree, nuts & dried fruit bowls: American Embassy finds (MNL)
Mixed nuts Price Club (YVR)
Wish tags: scrapbook supplies in the past (MNL)
Dried apricots: Chinese Dried Concessionaire (HKG)
Hanging tussles and trimmings: Island Shopping Center (HKG)
Ratings: A+++++++++++
- these were all the labor and research of my mom and I to make our Moroccan theme resonate loud and well
- lamps gave the perfect mood and will be great pieces to have at our new home
- the votive lights and candle holders were cheap and totally a great add-on instead of just having glass votive holders
- the nuts and fruits were enjoyed by our guests instead of just having bread

MC: Eva Poon (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++
- delivered well on the day; impressive and problem-solver, especially when we had one of our guests wanting to sing unexpectedly and out of the program schedule
- some turn-offs: very opinionated especially on certain suppliers but it's a personality that comes helpful to those who are unsure of certain suppliers that one books since she has most likely seen a lot of weddings to give an opinion.

Main Photographer: Pacific Lighting Studio/Patrick Uy (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- open to pose suggestions; nice and easy to talk to
- good in briefing for things needed that day
- have “the eye” for shots and a lot of good suggestions especially when Father Blanco Gardens were not a photo-opt option anymore
- great shots…a lot of people were so impressed with the shots taken during the slide show…heck – I was too since Pat is normally a traditional photographer for the Chinese. For this one, he proved them all wrong and that there are still lot of things under his “hat of tricks” yet- got my proofs within a week and it was great!

Back-up Photographer: Eddie Boy Escudero (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- professional, sweet and an ease to work with
- artistic in his work and passion
- great “candid” and “different” shots
- husband’s favorite supplier and he had a loadful of fun with Ebe since both are “nuts” at times :P
- got our proofs a week after...awesome stuff!

Videographer: Jason Magbanua (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- easy to work with; creative and talented
- we only got the 2nd team but they did a great job with the onsite video
- they used one of our fav, yet rarely used, songs by Esthero so that was a really nice surprise.
- we got our raw video and onsite already…it will take another 6-8 weeks for our final video

Souvenirs: Double Happiness Chopsticks by The Wedding Workshop (HKG)
Rating: A+++++
- fast, professional, fairly easy
- good deal with bulk orders but have a language barrier when requests/inquiries are by phone; have some problems with answering questions through email so had to ask my officemates to facilitate request for me
- delivery very fast and above the expected time

Principal Sponsor’s Gifts: Lladro (HKG)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- we chose a Chinese salt & pepper contain with two children for a Chinese theme though we changed our theme further to a Moroccan
- it’s good that I can order more so good that I ordered early since there’s a month of lead-time for bulk orders
- we ordered some extra - good thing since got surprise guest entertainments

Invitations: The Write Impression (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- we started this very early in the year since I wanted a particular invite style, look and feel; I did the research personally in HKG
- we did a total of about 21 drafts for the layout; while the design was easy since it was to copy what I researched
- staff is hardworking, open to customization, timely in delivery (except for Thank You Cards since I delayed the approval due to some more edits in the design)
- highly recommended for professionalism, openness, creativity, suggestions/ideas, etc

Music: Da Capo (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- easy to deal with since most of our songs were on their song list already

Sound System & Lighting: Mariano Tan (MNL)
Rating: A++
- easy and professional
- knows what is needed and will do what is instructed
- a bit of miscommunication with the total amount to be paid on the day; good thing that Ed’s dad had a check on hand to make up for the difference

Projector: Denis Sy (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- easy and knowledgeable
- seamless service; all via text and email

Baby Grand Piano Rental: Lyric Piano (MNL)
Rating: A+++++++++++
- rental was required for one of our special guests; helpful and knowledgeable
- easy to talk to and pay
- hubby, I and my nephew enjoyed the piano after and Ebe got some cool shots of all of us there…he would lie on the floor to get a particular look/shot
- love that he can get “the shots” even if he worked alone

Van Rental: Mang Mariano (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- I need to get this so as I can have some of my guests be transported between Mandarin-Makati Shang-Church-Airport
- easy to deal with, always contactable especially by text
- highly recommended by my coordinator

Ninong’s and Male Entourage’s Neckties: TieLine (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- easy to deal with and order

Seminar: CEFAM (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- highly recommended for couples who prefer not to stay overnight
- speakers were great, informative and honest
- memorable topics: love tank, symbols/signs of love, couple’s checklist, one couple’s speech/talk that was hilarious

Nails Pampering: Dashing Diva (MNL)
Rating: A++++++++++
- brought my overseas friends to get their nails pampered and get some “virtual nails” done
- great service and open to customization of your design; great suggestion of only having one diamond per hand (on my ring finger) since this would be the finger that was to be taken more photos of…cool, unique and not overly done
- a bit pricey and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours but for your big day...totally worth it

Other Supplies:
Female Principal Sponsor’s Cloth: Caroline’s Lace Store (MNL)
Ring & Coin Bearer’s Cloth: a cousin’s business in Tutuban (MNL)
Red Wine & Whiskey: c/o of father-in-law’s supplier/friend
Champagne: Ralph’s Liqueur Store (MNL)
Mom of the Groom’s Attire: store-bought (SIN)
Mom of the Groom’s Shoes: Stuart Weisman (MNL)

Cheryl&Ed
2007.12.09
sac.moh
Personal Blog: http://currant7.blogspot.com/
Wedding Site: http://chanwong.weddingannouncer.com/
Wedding Blog: http://chanwong.blogspot.com/

Pre-nup Photos Galore!

WeddingsAtWork Xmas Party 2007 (23 November 2007) was one great party! I gotta say that there were tons of great freebees and friends. Ed took the day-off for this since we were part of the volunteers helping Clarice of An Event To Remember, with the pre-nup sessions.
The schedule went...
8am - Ed goes for his haircut
10am - leave home
1130am - check-in at Fernwood Gardens
1145am - lunch
1230pm - HMUA
2pm - pre-nup photos
5pm - assist other W@W gals with pre-nup shots
7pm - dinner party

The W@W Wall was so cool...I saw so many of the W@W sisters that I met online. It was cool to meet Kendz & Lui, Tina & Jessie, Gel & Patrick, etc. Everyone was in good spirits and brides all made-up to their best...definitely full of love and support for all of us. :D
Too bad that I missed Irene/Ivy. Oh well - on the next one.

Ed and I practiced on how our real day would turn out to be...exciting and fun but at the same time, tiring and busy! :P Ed and I were lucky to have experienced photographer-hopping since there were 25/26 photographers giving random pre-nup shots to the couples who attended the pre-nup photo shoot.

My make-up was done by Lorie Abraham; while some partial photos are posted below. I hope to see the rest sometime soon or when I get the photo cd. :)

photo by THE Dino Lara
--> this was a fun shot...adorably fun.

photo by THE Leah Taas
--> had some balloon trouble but this turned out so well!

photos by THE Richie Macapinlac
--> one of my fav photos

photos by THE Crew Photography
--> another fav


photo by Metrophoto (Oly is so funny!)

--> this is so cool! lovin' it. :D

THE Fabphoto Booth


THE Clique Booth

Check out the Cliquebooth Party Video that Mimi&Karl compiled/found. It's one fun video that showed a good majority of the attendees that evening. It was so much fun!!!

THE Fotoloco Booth
--> fyi: the first shot...we weren't prepared and then we couldn't see the timer so much!

Ed was so happy that I enjoyed it ... but more that the food for dinner was bountiful and really good. Josiah Catering did a wonderful job! All the above were for free. Now, how cool is that?

I brought home some cakes for my mom from Sugarbox & Joy San Gabriel, fondant and cheese cakes, respectively. :)

Thanks so much Mam Benz & Papa John!

MNL Adjustments: have to wait, wedding preps 1st

Man, it's been so long since I updated this.
Thanks so much for the people who do visit the site and leave comments. I super duper love yah all - especially Malou, Cris, Steph, and Michelle!

I'm still struggling with coming back and meeting suppliers left and right.
This wedding is going out-of-control with the guest lists. I'm wondering how I'll be tackling the seat arrangement. Ed and I totally want to get over with this asap! :P There are a few more people we need to still set-up meetings with but so far we are done with the: priest (super duper nice and totally a character), misalette (finally - are much back&forth between our priest and SAC), invites (distributing), coordinator, entourage fitting (done and will have some alterations), cake (meeting again next week), bridal registry (registered and it was great making a "wish list"), got my RTW wedding cord (super nice ~ PM me if you want the info), mom's dress (coming along very very well), arrhae & other wedding items (ordered ~ PM me if you want the info), MOH (layout & number of guests - still working on this) and neckties for entourage (distributed).
I can't wait to wear my gown...oh, I need to pick it up in HK by next week. Yes, I'm flying back for a few days for my gown. :P This is really going down-the-wire! So far, 20 days to go ~ I'm so counting the days.
**For those W@Wies who will be going to this year's Xmas Party - I shall see you there! :D

I can finally post my SUAS layouts. It was totally tough to keep consistent mojo for these layouts. I know there were times when I just wanted to stop...but what the hey...oh well. All item are in the SUAS megakit unless stated. :) This is my very first digital contest. :P

Week One: Stamps
Journaling: I wish for hope to reign strong and true in the hearts of all. Even though hope could erase the pains of the world, it could make the pain easier.
Supplies: all are from the Stand Up And Scrap Kit unless indicated.
PP: Heather Ann Melzer and Christin Renee
Vintage Photo Frame: Christina Renee
Ribbon Wrap: Christina Renee
Alpha: Gina Marie Huff
Brushes: Journal Highlights by Jackie Eckles (Little Dreamer Designs Freebee) and Digi Stamps - Paisley by Shabby Princess (Shabby Shoppe)Font: Bernard MT Condensed, Rage Italic

Week Two: Pattern Papers
Journaling: The sweetest moments in my life are pieces of random thoughts and visions that stimulates the senses in my head like the delectible flavors of a drink, the oriental motif of mom’s robe, the addicting embrace of a boy, the festive colors of mosaic tiles, the fragrant scent of flowers, the melodic laughter of a child, and many more...all of these things are tattooed on my mind to be remembered and savoured for years to come.
Supplies: all are from the Stand Up And Scrap Kit.
PP: Amber Clegg, Audrey Neal, Shabby Miss Jean, Heather Roselli and RobinCarlton
String Closure: Heather Roselli
Brads: Anna Aspnes
Cross-stitch: Lisa Whitney
Paper Clip: Robin Carlton
Staples: Christina Renee
Flower Accent: Sarah Amarie
Font: GarryMondrian Condensed

Week Three: Song Lyrics
Lyrics: Angel by Sarah McLachlan (Soundtrack from the City of Angels)
Supplies: all are from the Stand Up And Scrap Kit
PP: Angela Barton, Christy Lyle, Mindy Terasawa
Backsplash: Susan Bartolini
Recycle Tag: Shabby Miss Jenn
Clip: Christy Lyle
Ribbon: Christy Lyle
Font: NSimsun, Vladimir Script, Palace Script MT




Week Four: Color
Journaling: Whenever Christmas holiday season rolls around, I go all out “nuts” for a Starbucks’ gingerbread latte, which sadly comes only once a year. I go through the whole year..without it and somehow my body knows its about time. I start smelling nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla round me. I would look for it...think about it...it’s a really bad case of “gingerbread withdrawal”! It doesn’t matter what the heck I’m doing - the all important objective is to have that RED cup of java in the palm of my hands. The drink is like a big warm hug wrapped in a nice RED Christmasy cup - making me remember wonderfulwinter memories in Vancouver - RED stockings, striped RED and white candycanes, RED Santa costumes, Rudolph’s RED nose, etc! And let's face it: ginger and spice are delicious. I could eat them year-round!But, alas, by January the gingerbread latte disappears yet again. Every season I await for its return. Its appearance on the specials board is a better harbinger of the season than the weather or the opening of Christmas display. And every season, I mourn its passing...
Supplies:Paper: Gina Marie Huff, Audrey Neal (red bubbles)
Journal Tag/Sticker: Robin Carlton
Stitching: Susan Bartolino (cream), Audrey Neal (red)
Font: Gungsuh, ITC Zapf Dingbats, Script MT Bold

Week Five: Simplicity
Supplies: all are from the Stand Up And Scrap Kit
PP: Meredith Fenwick
Font: CK Becky









Week Six: Anything...what's next?
Journaling: I am looking forward to see two years of hard work, meticulous research and careful decision-making in one special day - the day my soulmate and I would finally tie the knot.Notes: This to me is my own change soon (new challenges, new beginnings)...to later have kids to share the wonderful world, I grew to love and enjoy all through my life - to teach them how to preserve it in all its beauty and glory.
Supplies: All are from the Stand Up And Scrap Kit unless indicated.
Pattern Papers: Angela Barton, Heather Roselli, Sarah Bartolini, Mindy Terasawa, Gina Miller (for the green tiny flower accent's recolored)
Stamp (enlarged): Angela Barton
Doodle: Meredith Fenwick
Ribbon: Shabby Miss Jenn
Tiny Flower Accents: Lauren Grier
Denim Flower: Sara Amerie
Zipper Embellishment: Laura Deacetis
Staples: Christina Renee
Graffiti Grunge Frame: Shawna Clingerman (available at Sweet Shoppe Designs)
Buttons: Julie Mead
Font: Geometr231 BT Herald, Bernard MT Condensed
*******
All items below are by digitalGinger/Bevin Dunn
Kit: Marigold - Floral Print
Ribbons:Knotted & Folded Ribbons - Jewel Tones
Frames: Rockstar - 6"x3" Twin Frames

HKG: Time's Up

Just a quick update since I'm balancing packing, scrapping, and entertaining my folks here. :) 

 - Finally finished work last week! Yehey! 

My last day was on the 18th, and now the task of packing and more packing comes to play. With loads of things to pack, I unintentionally forgot my mom's birthday this year! I'm so ashamed! My mom called me that afternoon of her birthday to tell me that I forgot something...couldn't for the life of me know what I've forgotten...till she told me! Oh my gosh...apologized profusely but of course, I basically forgot - slipped my mind. :P House is so empty now...most of the stuff is shipped off already. I've never seen it this empty. I forgot to take a photo of it before I started dismantling the place. Didn't realize how much stuff my brother and I accumulated all these years. I believe it's only he and I that really fully utilized this place, aside from grams. 

 - Wedding details are coming to place quite well. I'm going home for a few weeks before coming back for one last time in Nov (before the big day) to finish further packing and wrapping up with some suppliers here. I'm sad with the thought that I feel closer to my grams living at her place but since she moved on early this year, I think I should do the same with regards to the current residency I'm in. I believe my relatives will be selling it soon. It's a great place and I believe HKG holds a very close place in my heart. I know I'll be back often since I have too many ties here and will always have a place to stay on my own. Bittersweet to not have grams see what I've become. **My mantra for her - "better place...better place...better place.** For now, MNL, here I come! 

 - The 6th and last SUAS scrap challenge is done and out. I'm just thankful for being able to keep my scrap mojo in line after some pretty intense assignments. Can't wait to see the outcome of this contest, even if I know that I'm not in contention or anything. Just being able to complete six weeks of pure scrapping with assigned tasks is a big deal for someone who just scraps whatever. the kits were very versatile since I didn't have a problem with mixing and matching products from different designers -> a first for me! Can't wait to post my works up to show what I did. It was really cool to hide my identity and be judged on the same level ground. I don't believe I gave myself away but you'll be the judge of it when I can fully post it. :) 

 ******** Some scrap news - just got informed that Doodleboogs, AMY, will be retiring from designing digi kits now. I'm sad with the thought but I know she's good and well with her decision. It's a real honor to have been part of her CT and I do wish her well. Amy - you rock and I do hope to see you again sometime in the digi-scrap world. **HUGS** No layouts since I'm busy with the move, wedding, and some pending scrap layouts. I promise soon!

3 Weeks' Round-up

It's been a very long time. Scrapping and packing for the "Big Move" are taking up most of my time. This is aside from wedding details that still needs to be ironed out. I'll try to keep this as short and as concise as I can. :)

Last Week of September 2007.
- got to meet so many suppliers: caker, stylist (finally met him in-person), designer, venue/reception, printers, etc.
- hung out with my cutie nephew as I learn more cool things about him like his fear of crossing his house's doorstep (the "threshold") to go outside without holding an adult's hand. So adorable on how he would look at us with his "puppy dog eyes"...kids are always so cute!
- played the "mid-autumn dice game" with old high school friends before I left the next day to head back to HK.
- went house furnishings shopping with Ed to shortlist some choices or options that we shall need at our new place, which is still a work in progress.
- was also able to attend my extended family's weekly Sunday dinners this time around since I left Monday (Oct 01). It was good seeing the relatives but I didn't feel like much socializing. Oh, Ed went with me too. :)
- scrapping like crazy for a contest...5 more challenges to go.

1st week of October 2007.
- good friend, AJ came for a short visit. It was great remeniscing about old times and catching up on what people are doing.
- company bonding night: I played babysitting babies and little girls as I would check out the gambling table on who was up or down :)
- Swong and I hit the town for some fall fashion...nothing interesting...yet :P
- this week's layout came quick and fast, just how I like them to be. 4 more challenges to go.

2nd week of October 2007.
- training a few people at work...
- scrapped a bit for a swap then for the contest. I believe I'm getting the hang of scrapping underpressure. :P My last two entries came a lot faster than I expected. I hope this streak continues.
- will be having hairy crab (HK winter delicacy) on the weekend aside from trying to pack like crazy. I want to get my scrapstuff home first so as to clear up space for more boxes in the coming weeks. Wish me luck!

Big shoutout for my gal pal, TAM ~ Happy Happy Birthday!
I will see you really really soon!

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On some other news, I got into the CT that I recently applied for - digitalGinger. :)
I posted a new layout for the kit that I previously worked with. The site's up already. Make sure you come and check out the ever-growing kits available.

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Title: Cherish
Supplies: all by digitalGinger (original illustrations & designs by Bevin Dunn)
Kit Name: Marigold - Vintage Notebook
Stamp: Marigold - Vintage Frames
Buttons: Marigold Collection
Font: Simsun
Journaling: To cherish the love you have, cherish the life you live.
Program: PS7.0



Template: Birthdaylicious Mega Kit (Doodleboogs' contribution)
Doodle: Rhonna Farrer's Blue Title from Color My World Kit (2Peas)
Ribbons: Deanna Patterson's Tilly Kit (DigizinesDigitalDen)

Alpha "5" paper: Deanna Patterson's Tilly Kit (DigizinesDigitalDen)

Alpha "5": Jeri Ingall's Monogram with Numbers (Scrapper's Toolbox Kit - SBE's CT Xmas 2006 giveaway)
Font: Gungsuh
Program: PS7.0

A Taste of the Luxe Life

12 September, Wednesday.
I really forced myself to get some good deals at the Sogo 21st Floor Brand Name Sale. It started today and I wasn't able to go till alittle before lunch. Nonetheless, I was able to get a lot of deals on a lot of good brands. Some range from hkd100 to hkd1k but it's fine since I know if I don't like them or if they won't fit, I can sell them off easily since I got good brand names as a fail-safe approach. Check out my stash below!

L-R (top): Plenty silk dress (hkd100), JustCavalli jersey-like/lycra signature printed dress(hkd500), Plenty felt flowers dress (hkd300), D&G embroidered cardigan (hkd1k) and Nanette Lepore, mom's fav, ribbon skirt (hkd1k++)

The last one is the most expensive purchase but I love it. There are two more articles but those are pretty simple like a clubbing shirt by JustCavalli at hkd450 and a Sunday dress by Plenty at hkd100.
After my successful purchases and promised myself to maintain my figure since a lot of the dresses require me to be in the size I'm already in, if not try to lose "the pouch" in front, I realized that I can go into business with this sort of thing - buy&sell in Manila. We'll see. I don't know if I can part with these lovely items!

15 September, Saturday.
Got up early to run some errands around town plus have some r&r around CWB.

Star-sighting:
Guess who I bumped into at the D-Mop store...Joey Yung, the Canto singer. :P
She was shopping with her assistant. You just see the flock of salespersons that manage to emerge on a sleepy Saturday afternoon right after lunch. She looked bored and was rejecting all the suggestions that the sales people were giving her. I guess it's normal for her. :)

Around the afternoon, I caught two movies today with some friends:
1.) Disturbia: reminds me of the I Know What You Did Last Summer and Scream franchise flicks...a lot of teeners in the movie theater. It's a bit more serious than their former predecessors but still a "teen flick" through and through. It's funny since I know the actor, Shia LaBeouf, when he was still in Disney Channel's Even Stevens so it's a good serious acting from a goof-ball character that he started from.
2.) I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry: typical Adam Sandler movie but good and funny. Cute and light-hearted. Just what I need on a weekend. :)

16 September, Sunday.
My old highschool friend, Herman, came to visit. It's great to see old friends from back in the day. Being in HK enables me to get reconnected them since HK is the big hub of every travel itinerary here in Asia. Oh, it does help that

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19 Sept, Wednesday.
Today - they will be announcing the first challenge for the Stand Up & Scrap Contest. It's going to be intense. :)
On a lighter note, checked the image on the left.
I got freebee invites to this party and had the time to do it with my best pal, Swong.
We didn't get there too early but we were still able to get some goodie bags. No luck with the raffle though their prizes are pretty sweet ~ two night's stay at Shangri-La Thailand's special suite as the grand prize.
Maybe next year would be a better year for this. :P
Free drinks and snacks were good enough for us! We were able to catch up on some much need life-updates since she's been busy in the dating front. I'm so happy for her! :) Had some late lunch at Tsui Hua for some fish ball noodles before headed home.

*MUST SEE BMW SHORT FLICKS*
For all you car-chasing, Madonna-loving, Clive Owen-fans out there...
BMW Films.
The short films gave me an even bigger respect for Clive Owen though I love him in the 2004 movie, Closer. There is so much emotion in this man's eyes and words...amazing!

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23 Sept, Sunday
Finally finished my entry for the SUAS Challenge #1. It took a lot of braincell burning but I'm glad that it's done for now. Now, I'm bracing myself for the next challenge, this coming Wednesday (Sept 26) and this time, I'll be doing it in Manila. I hope I get to have time to think about it as much I had for the first challenge.
There are a lot of great entries to this contest ~ have a look here.

Sorry - can't post my layout for this since we post through assigned entry numbers. I'll post them all later after the contest. :)

Heading home for a week this Tuesday so won't be updating this till I get back...around the first week of October or so.

Happy Mid-Autumn Festival to you all!

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Kit Name: Newsletter Freebee - Vintage Dreams - Retro Diva (Little Dreamer Designs) by Lori Barnhurst and Michelle Coleman
Template: 12x12 Template #Fifteen - Getting Comical (ScrapOutsideOfTheBox) by Doodleboogs
Program: PS7.0
Font: Rage Italic
Journaling: Thank you for always knowing what to do and what to say. You are my sanity at the end of the day.
~excerpt from My Moon, My Sun, My Star, My Everything
by C. Blanco


Kit Name: Autumn Frolic (available at Scrapbook-Elements) by Mikki Livanos - coming soon!
Template Link: 12x12 Template #14 - Polaroidization by Doodleboogs
Program: PS7.0
Font: Rage Italic
Journaling: Make one of your favorite hobbies collecting friends. ~Life's Little Instruction Calendar Volume XI





Kit: Tiny Pilot by Mikki Livanos
Template: 12x12 Template #Fifteen - Getting Comical by Doodleboogs
Program: PS7.0
Font: Rage Italic
Journaling: Savour the moments that are warm and special and giggly. ~Sammy Davis Jr.






Kit Name: Autumn Frolic (coming soon) by Mikki Livanos (available at Scrapbook-Elements)
Template: September Template Challenge at SBE by Alice Koh
Program: PS7.0
Font: Times New Roman and CK Ranch
Journaling: You can't deny laughter; when it comes, it plops down in your favorite chair and stays as long as it wants. ~Stephen King