Mercato Centrale Re-Visited!

Mercato Centrale Re-Visited

Early this morning, I went back to Mercato Centrale to try out other food finds there as well as see if the weekend treats there are really worth it.

After going to the office first, I took a cab going to BGC. Mercato Centale is now located at the corner of 34th street and 8th avenue just beside MC Home Depot.

Some entertainment to keep you company XD

I went in to check out some new food finds for me. I noticed some of the food concessionaires that I saw previously were not there anymore. Anyway, I'm looking for something new here XD.

Serving my first meal for the day XD

After some thought, I tried Mad about Spud's Beef Lasagna (100 pesos) and Cheesy Potatoes (40 pesos) by Juana Kitchen. The Lasagna tastes just good but the Cheesy Potatoes are a hit for me. The cheese made it good plus the potatoes are bite-sized so its more fun to eat.

Cheesy Potatoes

Beef Laagna

Still feeling hungry, I tried Chuck's Grubberie beer-battered dory and chips (150 pesos). Both fish and chips were a bit cold plus its too salty for my taste (maybe one of the staff put excess salt into it). The food being cold has lost impact on its crispiness but I felt the taste of beer in its batter. For two pieces of fish for 150 pesos, I find it a bit pricey. And I got surprised when I requested for an additional garlic mayo dip and the staff told me that would be an additional 50 pesos. Its also the cost of an additional fish to the menu. Unfortunately, I didn't finish my chips as I felt a bit full after while eating.

Beer-battered Dory

Some chips

Chuck's Grubberie beer-battered dory and chips

After eating, I passed by Merry Moo's booth and I got a sample of their Sea Salt Caramel and Earl Grey Tea. After tasting both of them, I got a scoop of Sea Salt Caramel (70 pesos) and a scoop of Belgian Chocolate (55 pesos from 75 pesos since I got 20 pesos off on the second scoop). I like the Sea Salt Caramel that much as its a little bit salty but sweet thanks to the caramel.

Belgian Chocolate

Sea Salt Caramel

Two scoops are always better than one. XD

I was thinking if I would bring pasalubong back home or not. My mother-in-law loves polvoron so I got two packs of assorted polvoron for 160 pesos (80 pesos per pack) from Double Delights Food Products.

Double Delight's Polvoron

Then I passed by Medchef again to order their Bread Pudding Creme Brulée (200 pesos) I passed by their booth earlier and I got to sample both their Bread Pudding Creme Brulée and their Flourless White Chocolate Mango Torte. Both of them taste good but I had to choose only one for now and I chose the former. To my surprise, they add sugar to my Bread Pudding Creme Brulée and melted it in front of me to my delight. I hope my wife would love it when I take it home tonight.

I wish I have bought this as well. XD

And finally, I had to go to Mochiko's booth to try their ice-cream-filled mochi (Japanese Rice Cakes). They were almost out of products but I was able to try their Black Sesame Mochi (70 pesos). One of the staff told me to wait for at least 3-4 minutes before eating my mochi as it was still hard as a rock. After a few minutes, I got to enjoy eating my mochi. It was like eating frozen "bilu-bilo" but it has ice cream on it.

Mochiko's Black Sesame Mochi

To my surprise, I felt full after only a few visits to some of the booths as I was hoping to eat more XD.

Anyways, I'm looking forward to take my wife and baby here soon. ^_^.

The week that was (April 17 - 23)

Sunday: I got up a bit early to do some online stuff and check on other things. We were supposed to attend the 12:00pm mass at St Anthony Shrine but instead, we decided to go to Edsa Shrine to hear the 3:00pm mass there. By the time I got all the Sunday's paper I need, we prepared ourselves to attend the mass there. We got there at past 3:00pm which we got late for Father Dave Concepcion's 3:00pm mass.We really missed listening to his lively and timely lectures regarding the gospel that he preaches as both my wife and I were a big follower of his. After mass, we went to National Bookstore to look for some good books to read (and eventually buy) but my wife got hungry all of a sudden so we went on the fourth floor to try the potato twist there. It was indeed crunchy since its deep-fried but to trace of oil was found in our potato. Then my wife wanted some HK Noodles but I was hesitant to buy her one since its not good for her health and for our baby but eventually, I got her one and shared with her. We went up to the fourth floor to go to NBS to read some more books. I got interested in the books by Robert Kiyosaki (known for his Rich Dad, Poop Dad Book). I think our stay there reading books took us for more than an hour and we didn't notice that it was almost 7:00pm. Then we head to Ronac Art Center in San Juan to try out Charlie's Grind and Grill (I'll be creating a separate blog for this).We got home probably at almost 9:00pm and both of us were really tired and excited for our baby's arrival.

Monday: I got up at around 7:00am as I got to go online for a short time only. Then my wife and I watched TV until noon then we prepared ourselves for my wife's check-up with her doctor at 3:00pm. Good thing we got there just in time and waiting didn't took us long before it was her turn. We were surprised with what her doctor said. She said that my wife has to be admitted to the hospital the next day as her IE was at around 3cm already. Both of us were excited and scared at the same time because it would be our first time to be parents to our baby girl (Name to be revealed soon). After her check-up, we went to SM Megamall to have our dinner at Bigby's. I took only a few shots but I didn't took some of the food shots as both of us were thinking of what will happen the next day. We got home at probably around 9:00pm. We told them of the news and they were happy and worried at the same time. Both of us went to bed at 11:30pm but we weren't able to fall asleep early. We simply exchanged our thoughts on her delivery the next day and we read her two books on pregnancy and parenthood. I closed our lights and looked at my wife's face as she was also awake. I told her how much I look forward to our future ahead.

Tuesday: I got up at around 7:00am while my wife followed a few minutes later. I wasn't able to eat well but I made sure my wife would take a light breakfast as advised by her doctor. We left home at 8:30am with two bags with us. We got to the hospital an hour later as we head straight to the delivery suite (I'll create a separate blog for my wife's 16-hour labor).We had lunch together as I told her not to be nervous or scared as I'll be with her. I've called office and told them that my were already in the hospital and I won't be able to report for a week (paternal leave). My OIC understood and wished my wife well. When I was having coffee and reading some magazines at Starbucks, her best friend called her cellphone and I was able to answer it. I told her to pay a visit and told her some updates as well as asked her to bring a pillow for me. I took an early dinner at starbucks again as I was so anxious on what time my baby will be born. They (my wife's best friend and my sister-in-law) arrived at past 7:30pm as both of them came from work. They kept me company for as long as they can but they have to go since they need to report for work the next day. It was almost midnight but my wife hasn't gave labor yet.

Wednesday: I have been awake for almost the entire night as I slept for an hour (from 12:30am-1:30am). I went out to Mc Donalds at Rockwell Center in Ortigas just beside The Medical City for a Quarter Pounder and Fries to go. I ate at our room while watching TV to keep my body and my spirit awake. Then at 5:45am, the doctor told me that they will be performing a cesarean on my wife since its been more than 15 hours and I agreed to ensure my wife and my baby's safety. In less than an hour, the operation has been finished. I got to see my newborn baby up close though I was not allowed to take pictures inside the operating room earlier (I gave my camera to one of the doctors there for them to shoot). One of the OR Nurses told me that I could take pictures of her before she was taken to the Nursery Room. I went back to our room and I fell asleep for at least an hour or so before my wife was taken to her room. She was still tired and groggy with the anesthesia she took earlier. Later in the afternoon, my mom and sister paid a visit as well as my mother in law and sister in law. I went out first to buy some pizza at Buon Giorno to feed our visitors. Their pizza were not as expensive as I think and its thin crust so I really liked it especially while hot. Then, I accompanied them to the nursery room for them see our baby. They were surprised because our baby was the largest in the nursery room. After everyone left that night, I had pizza for dinner which saves me some money for our hospital bill. I felt so tired that I think I fell asleep in no time.

Thursday: I got up early and got myself a strong coffee from Starbucks located on the ground floor of the building. My wife seems to be better though she needs more rest for her to breastfeed our baby. We went to the Nursery room before 11:00am to view our baby before my wife would breastfeed our baby but unfortunately, she was sleeping soundly when she went inside the nursery room. Then we went back and both of us fell asleep in the afternoon which I got up an hour later. I heard a knock and it was my wife's sister along with her best friend who paid us a visit. I took them to the nursery room and they were able to take a peek of our baby who was still sleeping. Since I ate up all of the pizza from yesterday, I went back to Buon Giorno to get some pizza again. As I was about to go up to our room, I saw my dad going there too. I joined him and lead him to the room which to my surprise, my wife's boss was there as well and he got my wife a whole banoffee pie from Banapple. Since they were late I just show our baby through my camera and they were surprised when I told them she was 7lbs 4oz heavy. They stayed for a while before finally gone home. I accompanied my dad to the bus going Edsa. My wife told me that she and our baby can be discharged tomorrow since both of their vital signs were good.I went to the fourth floor to get some additional pamphlets about taking care of your health as well as some ideas on certain sickness.

Friday: I got up earlier and had coffee again at Starbucks. I got myself a Grande Brewed Coffee with two extra shots of espresso. That mix was just right for me. Strong and flavorful though a bit expensive at 165 pesos XD. Then I went back to fix some things and called the Nursery Room if our baby can be discharged now and transferred to our room. It took us a while before she got to our room. Then my mom together with my sisters came to see our baby up close. The nurse in-charge gave us some instructions on how to clean the baby's poop as well as how to change her diapers. I went down to the billing department to get our total bill and I was surprised that our total bill didn't reach 130K all-in-all. I paid the remaining balance of almost 40K to the cashier and went back up to secure two clearance slips for my wife and my baby. Then at past 12:00pm, we hailed a cab going home. It was a fast and smooth ride going back home as we were greeted by my wife's folks back home. Weather was quite hot and humid as both of us tried to make sure that our baby won't feel the heat. I rested for a while before buying my wife's medicine and vitamins at Mercury Drug in Earnshaw and in Maceda (I have to travel quite far to be able to complete all my wife's needs). I had beef pares for early dinner which was a no-no for me being a Good Friday. I went back home walking since there was a Procession within our area as hundreds of devotees are there for the parade of the Black Nazarene.I was to tired but I know I have to adjust our sleep and we won't be able to sleep longer hours like we used to.

Saturday: I got up early despite lack of sleep as our baby was already up and crying. I took her down to get her some sunshine. I was supposed to go home to San Pedro today to get some clothes and take my magazines back home but I felt so dizzy. Instead, I went online to check stuff and read some blogs. Practically I stayed home the entire morning before going to SM Manila in the afternoon to relax and unwind as well as buy some stuff and diapers for our newborn. Then I went down to the food court to have Lechon rice for merienda. For some reason, my headache was gone after unwinding in the afternoon. I went online as soon as I come home to update my blog as well as do some blog hopping. I'm looking forward to this major adjustment in the years to come as a dad and be more responsible as well XD.

The Difference between Westerners and Asians

Found this in my inbox. Just sharing. XD

To group all races of Asians as one is to overgeneralize. Asian races are more diverse than the Caucasians, i.e. Indians differ from the Chinese in most respects.

Key: 

Blue --> Westerners  

Red --> Asians

(1) Opinion

Westerners: Talk to the point

Asians: Talk around the circle, especially if opinions are different

(2) Way of Life

Westerners: individualism, think of himself or herself.

Asians: enjoy gathering with family and friends, solving their problems, and know each other's business.

(3) Punctuality

Westerners: on time.

Asians: in time.

(4) Contacts

Westerners: Contact to related person only.

Asians: Contact everyone everywhere, business very successful.

(5) Anger

Westerners: Show that I am angry.

Asians: I am angry, but still smiling... (Beware!)

(6) Queue when Waiting

Westerners: Queuing in an orderly manner.

Asians: Queuing?! What's that?

(7) Sundays on the Road

Westerners: Enjoy weekend relaxing peacefully.

Asians: Enjoy weekend in crowded places, like going to the mall.

(8) Party

Westerners: Only gather with their own group.

Asians: All focus on the one activity that is hosted by the CEO.

(9) In the restaurant

Westerners: Talk softly and gently in the restaurant.

Asians: Talk and laugh loudly like they own the restaurant.

(10) Travelling

Westerners: Love sightseeing and enjoy the scenery.

Asians: Taking picture is the most important; scenery is just for the background. 

(11) Handling of Problems

Westerners: Take any steps to solve the problems.

Asians: Try to avoid conflicts, and if can, don't leave any trail.

(12) Three meals a day

Westerners: Good meal for once a day is sufficed.

Asians: At least 3 good meals a day.

(13) Transportation

Westerners: Before drove cars, now cycling for environmental protection.

Asians: Before no money and rode a bike, now got money and drive a car.

(14) Elderly in day-to-day life

Westerners: When old, there is snoopy for companionship.

Asians: When old, guarantee will not be lonely, as long as willing to babysit grandkids.

(15) Moods and Weather

Westerners: The logic is: rain is pain.

Asians: More rain, more prosperity

(16) The Boss

Westerners: The boss is part of the team.

Asians: The boss is a fierce god. 

(17) What's Trendy

Westerners: Eat healthy Asian cuisine.

Asians: Eat expensive Western cuisine.

(18) The Child

Westerners: The kid is going to be independent and make his/her own living.

Asians: Slog whole life for the kids, the centre of your life.

True or not? It's up to you XD.

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Blessing from the Pope)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD.

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Papal Blessing: W@wie Ginette Cuadrasal

Address: Ask my wife

Contact: Ask my wife

Cost:  (2009 Rate)

Inclusions: Papal Blesing Certificate with the Pope's official seal.

Verdict: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

By Ariel Javelosa

Wedding Kwento: Actually, I consider this as only a “nice to have” item since with or without it, our wedding would still go on as well as our marriage. When I browsed through the internet about this, I asked my wife her opinion about this and she told me we can get one.

Realization: Even if it is considered a nice to have, every couple should have this one as it symbolizes unity with God.    

Recommended for: Couples who wanted to have their marriage blessed by the Pope. Couples with extra budget.

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): None. Sya lang ang 
nagiisang papal blessing supplier sa Pilipinas hehe XD.

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: My relatives who are working in Italy probably XD.

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Gifts to our Principal Sponsors)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD.

No pictures were taken here. Sorry XD

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Gifts for Principal Sponsors: Glass Scrolls from Papemelrotti

Address: Papemelrotti, Gateway Branch

Contact: I forgot already XD

Cost:  (2009 Rate)

Inclusions: Glass Scrolls + Box

Verdict: Swabeh Lang!!!

Wedding Kwento: During our wedding preps, we were thinking of gifts that were not commonly given. She didn’t want to give wine to our principal sponsors because she wanted something different. Thus, we decided to give glass scrolls. A month before, we decided to go to Papemelrotti at their Gateway branch to reserve at least 12 Glass Scrolls for our PS. When we receive them, I was shocked because it was not properly finished. The base was not varnished (I have to apply varnish myself).

Realization: Sine we were pressed for time, we had to think quick on what to give to our Principal Sponsors. If we had at least a year, we could have personalized our gifts to them. 

Recommended for: Couples who doesn't have much time in choosing the gifts for their PS.

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): Any other supplier would do with the right research.

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: Any other supplier would do with the right research.

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Golden Bling-Bling)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

All pictures here were taken by Ariel Javelosa and Joey Boquiren

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

From Ariel Javelosa

Wedding Rings: Golden Hills Jewelry

Address: Robinson’s Place, Manila Branch

Contact: I forgot her name XD

Cost: Php 31,200 (2009 Rate. Discounted by 20%. Original Price was Php 39,000)

Inclusions: With Lifetime Warranty, Free Cleaning and Resizing and free mock rings

Verdict: Ratings will be divided as follows

Customer Service: Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Final Output: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

By Ariel Javelosa

Wedding Kwento: After we paid Jo-Anne our downpayment for our supposed to be Wedding Package, She texted us saying there is a sale on wedding rings at a bridal fair in PICC last March. We went there to check for their designs and how much it costs. But before we got there, my wife has already a design in mind which design to choose. Also, she was already dealing with her friend about our rings but since she didn’t receive any response, we decided to look for others.

By Joey Boquiren

We instantly like one of their designs but we ask them if they could customize one for us. And as a result, our rings costs almost Php 40,000 (Costs Php 39,000). Good thing they offer 20% discount and we could pay them little by little and every time we visit their branch, we always fit our rings to see if it still fits. We were able to settle our remaining balance with them every other month until our last payment of Php 5,000. When I got the rings, I was really amazed that after trying it, we didn't want to remove it from our fingers.

By Joey Boquiren

The good thing about having these rings is that we were given a pair of mock rings to see if the rings would fit and it fits perfectly. So perfect that these are the rings that we use everyday instead of the actual rings that we got from them.

Realization: We could have been contented with wedding bands instead of adding diamonds to it. But since I haven’t gave my wife any engagement ring, I agreed on her choice of design and the ring. I should have let my wife get all the diamond stones for her rings to make it look elegant. 

Having a pair of mock rings really helped us since we could protect our rings from possible theft and being misplaced or lost.

Recommended for: Couples who are on a budget and prefers to pay in an installment basis

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): Matus, Suarez, My Diamond

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: Matus, Suarez, My Diamond

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Gift for the Guests)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Souvenirs: Ref Magnets from Helen

Address: c/o my Wife

Contact: Ms Helen Guerra

Cost: I forgot the exact amount but its less than 2,000 pesos (2009 Rate).

Inclusions: Ref Magnets only

Verdict: Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

From Ariel Javelosa

Wedding Kwento: Both of us wanted to give our guests something that its not heavy, not common, and something they could use. I was bent to choose to have a photobooth so our guests could have their pictures taken and have fun. But my wife disagrees because aside from its expensive, their pictures would probably be misplaced along with the others.


Then my wife told me why not give them ref magnets. Aside from its lightweight, its also useful as well as it doesn't collect dust (as long as it is used). I gave her my approval and let her look for it. She was able to find Helen's multiply site and worked it from there. I trusted my wife's choice of supplier and I let her deal with them.

From Ariel Javelosa

When I saw the designs, I was impressed enough but I wanted to make sure that their product is really high quality. And they didn't fail me once I saw the actual magnets. The guests were please with it they didn't bother to ask how much it costs XD.

Realization: If we only have enough budget, we could have got a good photobooth as well so that our guests would be entertained while waiting for us. But since most of our guest would be coming from the province, they may not enjoy it so we'd rather give them something light and useful.

Recommended for: Couples who are on a VERY tight budget. 

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): A photo booth probably if we had enough budget.

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: A photo booth probably if we had enough budget plus more souvenirs XD. 

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Ride)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Bridal Car:c/o Eloquente

Address: c/o Eloquente

Contact: c/o Eloquente

Cost: c/o Eloquente + 1500Php (2 hours overtime plus tip for the driver)

Inclusions: 3-Hour Rental Mercedes Benz E220

Verdict: Hindi Swabeh!!!

Wedding Kwento: Probably the worst supplier we had from this team since we let Eloquente do this plus we don’t want to stress ourselves looking for one. We didn’t expect the driver to arrive too early (11:00am) and even demanded for a tip which we would rather not give due to his below par service. The car was way too common for me as both of just have to be contented with our bridal car.

Realization: We should have accepted our Ninong’s offer to use his SUV for us.

Recommended for: No one unless you want to stress yourselves on your wedding day. Hehe XD

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): Don Robert’s, Adeb

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: Don Robert’s, Philippine Limousines,

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Wedding Invites)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

All Pictures here were taken by Ariel Javelosa

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Invites: Cardprints

Address: Robinson’s Galeria Branch

Contact: Ms. Tess

Cost: Php: 5,700 (2009 Rate).

Inclusions: Main Invite, Entourage Card, RSVP (freebie), Map (freebie), Thank You Card (freebie), Envelope (with Gold Lining)

Verdict: Ratings will be divided as follows

Customer Service: Swabeh!!!

Invitation Lay-Out: Swabeh!!!

Final Output: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

From Ariel Javelosa

Wedding Kwento: We were initially quoted by Jo-Anne for our invites at Php 90 each that only has the main invite, entourage and envelope since she has contacts with suppliers. If we add RSVP and map, we would be charged with additional cost. Again, we felt that it was way expensive to spend Php 100 per invite so we decided to look for other suppliers.

My wife was communicating with Unifair Printing when we started to look for alternatives. However, they are close during Sundays so we decided to look again. Cardprints was one of our choices since its more affordable considering the inclusions. We had three freebies that we chose from their package that we got from them.  

Our expectations were not set properly. First, our freebies were changed since our total cost was only Php 5,000 while it should be at least Php 6,000 to avail the freebies that we wanted.

They respond fast and even informed us that our layout was ready for approval at an earlier date not once but twice. Though they had to revise because of some corrections, we didn’t mind that because we submitted our updated map.

Then after approving the layout for printing, they called my wife saying that there is one missing in our contract and that is our color combination. Tess told her that we need to pick the color for our invites. We went back to their Robinsons Galeria branch to inform Tess of the color that we will pick for our invites. She mentioned that our invites will be ready by Oct 13. We were able to pick-up the final product last October 14. When we were able to see the final product, both me and my wife were highly satisfied since they were able to follow the lay-out that what we wanted. The map insert was OK as well as the RSVP card and thank you card.

From Ariel Javelosa

When we started distributing our invitations, our relatives and friends really liked the invitation. They said it really looked expensive and elegant (most of them think we've spent more than 200 pesos per invite XD). Probably its how my wife mixed red and gold to our invites ;-)

Realization: If we were given with extreme artistic talent and more than enough time to conceptualize, we could have made our own invites and then just look for a supplier to print the invites. Also, we should have tried to look for suppliers in Recto since its only 5-10 minutes (walking distance) away from my wife’s home.

Recommended for: Couples who are not very meticulous with their invites and still wanted it with elegance and class. And for couples who are on a budget XD.

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): QP Design, Unifair Printing, Printed Matter, WINK,

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: DIY our invites since we had lots of time for this.

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Emcee)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Emcee: Norly Dizon

Address: c/o Ms Jo-Anne Co of Weddings are Blessings

Contact: Norly Dizon

Cost: Included in WAB OTD Package (2009 Rate)

Inclusions: 2-3 Hours Hosting

Verdict: Ratings will be divided as follows

Pre-Meeting: Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

On The Day: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Wedding Kwento: We didn’t have much idea who would host our event. Initially, we would prefer to have one (or two) of our friends to host our wedding. But since Jo-Anne included him in our OTD package, we have to be fine at that. Honestly, I can’t help it but feel envious of other couples who are raving about their emcees.

Then I tried to look for his reviews through w@w about his hosting as well as his professionalism before and after the event. I found a positive and a negative review and checked his website (he has a lot of clients) as well. His rates were reasonable enough.

While I was doing my ocular visit at RMCH with Eloquente as our caterer, I heard this guy practicing his vocal chords. He approached me and asked if we were guests for that wedding. I told him I was just doing an ocular and he offered me his services. After he asked me of our wedding date and told him, he was a bit surprised and checked his calendar. He even asked if Eloquente was our caterer and I said yes, he told us that he would be our emcee for our day. He was polite and courteous during our short discussion and even recommended SJT as our Strings Ensemble (we already booked them before).

During our first official meeting (I was late for more than an hour) I noticed that my wife laughs a lot because of his jolly personality. He also presented to us his samples (video and music) as well as a sample program. He also provided suggestion regarding basic games and level-up (more exciting) games. That made our program easier since we didn’t have much time to choose due to time pressure.

From Ariel Javelosa

During our reception, he even sing at least 2-3 songs while our strings took their short break and guests were quite surprised with the way he sings.

Realization: If we could have it our way, we would prefer a female host (no offense to male hosts) since most guests would probably be glued to their seats if our host was a female.

Recommended for: Couples who don’t mind having a male host for their wedding program.

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): Sweet Casuyon, Jhoanna Sebastian, Kim Valdez,

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: Sweet Casuyon, Jhoanna Sebastian, Kim Valdez,

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Sound System)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Sound System: c/o Eloquente

Address: c/o Eloquente

Contact: c/o Eloquente

Cost: c/o Eloquente + Php 2,000 for 2 additional Speakers (2009 Rate)

Inclusions: Basic Sound System + 2 Additional Speakers

Verdict: Swabeh!!!

Wedding Kwento: Another inclusion in Eloquente’s package. When I went to RMCH for an ocular at Eloquente, I was able to talk to Norly and he mentioned to get Gerald as our supplier for our sound system. When we had our final detailing with Jun, he mentioned that he will be getting Gerald as our Sound System supplier because he was already comfortable working with him. 

Come wedding day, Gerald was there. Making sure that our sound system works fine without any problems. Everything was running smoothly though I assume no one hardly noticed it. No glitches whatsoever. 

Realization: Probably, if we had enough budget, we could have booked a separate supplier who is master with this craft.

Recommended for: Couples who are on a budget and not meticulous with their sound system.

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): Rejectkrew, Sensitivity, Sound Level

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: Rejectkrew, Sensitivity, Sound Level

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Wedding Ensemble)

This would be our contribution to the group. As much as possible, we won’t be using the word OC (since it has been overused here already) and we would detail our rating so it could serve you as a guide. Our verdict is based on how we coordinated with them (from start to finish) and it shouldn’t be a sole basis whether you book this certain supplier or not (different strokes for different folks). Here is how we would be rating our wedding team. Sorry for the very long delay XD

All pictures here were taken by Ariel Javelosa

Legend:

5 and Up: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Book them while still available)

4 - 4.99: Swabeng-Swabeh!!! (Very Good)

3 – 3.99: Swabeh!!! (Quite Ok)

2 – 2.99: Swabeh Lang!!! (Needs Improvement)

0 – 1.99: Hindi Swabeh!!! (Now you know)

Strings: SJT String Ensemble

Address: No 56 C Anonas Cor Lanzones St., Brgy. Quirino 2B Project 2, Quezon City

Contact: Ms Thess/Mr Ricky Tuason

Tel No: 927-2439, 09205953257, 436-6317 (fax)

Email: sjtstrings@yahoo.com

Cost: Php 11,500 (2009 Rate)

Inclusions: Quartet (3 Instrumentalists plus Singer)

Verdict: Swabeh!!!

From Ariel Javelosa

Wedding Kwento: Jo-Anne gave us a short list of Wedding Performers and SJT was in her list. When we checked their rates, they cost Php 14,000 (Trio with No Singer for reception only). Since I visit online then, I checked their website and compare their rates. Their rates was much affordable (At Php 11,500 for a Quarter (Trio plus Singer for Both Church and Reception)) than that of Jo-Anne (Getting them in Bridal Fair works best). Since we were pressed for time, SJT was our top pick. I checked w@w to check who would be their best singer and someone named Ice was on top of the list.

We booked them at a bridal fair at SM Megamall but unfortunately, they just finished performing when we arrived. We were able to hear them play live at NBC Tent during another bridal fair. Good thing Ice performed that time as well as another singer named Grace (my wife remembered that Grace performed during my college buddy’s wedding). Both of them singed well that made us (or me) decide to get Ice as our official singer. When my wife asked Ice’s availability on our day, Ms Tess told her that we would know two weeks before the event (She mentioned Ice works as a Nurse and sings on the side). My wife even suggested that Grace would sing instead because she was sexier than Ice (“tama bang gawing criteria yung kaseksihan ng singer?” XD). 

She also complained that Tess hardly replies through email and SMS and even through phone. When we saw Tess performed at Gazebo Royale (at Eloquente’s Grand Food Tasting), we had a chance to talk to her personally but she disappeared all of a sudden.

During our final meeting with Jo-Anne, she told us that we would have a different female singer instead of the one we chose (and Norly’s recommendation) since she talked to Mr Ricky Tuazon instead of Ms Thess.

By Ariel Javelosa

Come wedding day, we didn’t much notice them playing though they performed well. I noticed during the wedding ceremony, there were 2 singers performing but during the reception, there was only one singer. During the meal proper, they were able to play well despite that we didn’t notice them much (probably due to the fact that we were too busy entertaining our guests).

Realization: We could have been satisfied with sound system alone plus we can provide cds that they could play. But after attending my friend’s wedding, we decided to have live entertainment. 

Recommended for: Couples who wanted to make sure all guests are entertained with good music. 

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): Da Capo, Stradavarius, String Minstrels, Velvet Mood

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.