The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Quick Tour in Cebu)

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.

Photos were taken by me using my delirious camera 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) 

Cebu Tour Guide: My wife's boss' friend's son. Sorry both of us forgot his name.

Address: Mactan, Cebu

Contact: Sorry. we don't have his contact

Cost: Free courtesy of my wife’s boss’ friend's son who is also Cebu-based.

Inclusions: Day tour in Cebu while waiting for our 6:00pm flight back to Manila

Verdict: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Wedding Kwento: After taking a short dip by the pool and by the beach of Cebu, We need to be up and ready for our flight back in Manila. Instead of my wife's boss' friend who picked us up, it was his son who stepped down the vehicle and picked us up. Instead of going straight to Mactan Airport, he offered to give us a quick tour within the city of Cebu. 


To start with, we got to Mactan Shrine first. Inspired by his success in bringing Christianity to the people of Cebu, Ferdinand Magellan crossed the narrow channel to Mactan Island in an effort to spread the Catholic faith. Whilst still wading to the shore, he was killed by island chieftain Lapu Lapu leading his army of men during the battle for supremacy and freedom on April 27, 1521. Magellan's body was never recovered and in 1866 a marker was erected as a monument to this great explorer, marking the spot that Magellan was slain.

There is a great deal spoken with regards to the Hero of the Philippines, Chief Lapu Lapu, much of it surrounded in myth and Mactan Shrine imagelegend. However this is a nice place to visit the grounds are very well kept and you can have a great seafood meal in one of the several fish restaurants next to the shrine. Why not check out the shell vendors just outside the shrine and marvel at the exquisite designs made purely from shells.

Shrine of Lapu-Lapu

Our next stop was at Basilica de Sto Nino. The church was built by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and Fr. Andres Urdaneta on the site where the image of Santo Niño was found in 1565. The church was however destroyed by fire on November 1, 1568 and was subsequently rebuilt in 1602 under the administration of Juan Albaran and was rehabilitated in 1740.

 Shot near the Altar

I made sure to get some little of its history

Then we went to another church nearby which was the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. The Cathedral dates back to 1591 and started of as a barn like structure made of wood, bamboo and nipa. It was the seat of the diocese which included the whole Visayas, Northern Mindanao and the Marianas Islands. During the 1890s with Bishop Juan Gorordo serving as Chaplin, the Cathedral was finally completed, being consecrated on June 24th, 1909.

Taken from a different perspective

The Church was too wide for my kit lens that I have to shot it from a different angle. Also when I tried to take some inside shots of the church, there was an ongoing funeral mass so I decided to take a shot of the altar from outside.

Taken from outside

Then we passed by the famous Magellan Cross. When Magellan traveled from Spain to the Philippines in 1521, he brought with him in a wooden cross. This cross was planted at a place called Sugbu, now Cebu, to symbolize the colonization of the country on behalf of King Philip II of Spain.

Magellan's Cross Edited

To preserve the cross the original has been encased Building Housing Magellan's Cross - Image by John Van Dasler an outer layer of tindalo wood, mounted on a concrete pedestal, and housed in a tile-roofed kiosk. The roof of the kiosk is adorned with a painting depicting the landing of Magellan in Cebu and the planting of the original cross on the shore.

My usual info-shot

Magellan's Cross

We had our lunch late in the afternoon as we got to stop by to a local market to buy some pasalubong for our folks back home. We got some danggit, otap, mangoes among others that made our bags really stuffed.

Our host decided that we have our lunch at Ayala Center in Cebu. I forgot the name of the restaurant where we had our lunch but nevertheless, we got really full. XD

It feels like we were in Greenbelt 3 with its surroundings but with a different twist. Cebuanos are really lucky to have a mall like this.

After our late lunch, we head off to Mactan Airport as we bid our new friend goodbye. I hope we could visit Cebu again to enjoy the place and take better photos. ^_^

Realization: Taking a half-day tour of Cebu isn't that bad. Besides its free and we enjoyed every minute of it XD. It's really nice that my wife has a lot of contacts. If we only had a few more days, we could have toured more ^_^

Recommended for: Its hard to tell because eh did it just for us. 

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): None.

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: None.

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Stay in Cebu)

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

Photos were taken by me using my delirious camera 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) 

Honeymoon Destination in Cebu: White Sands at Maribago Beach

Address: Mactan, Cebu

Contact: We forgot. Sorry XD

Cost: Free courtesy of my wife’s boss’ friend who is Cebu-based.

Inclusions: Accommodations only

Verdict: Rating will be divided as follows:

Accommodations:  Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Amenities: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Beachfront: Hindi Swabeh!!! 

markpogi was here in Cebu XD

Wedding Kwento: Cebu is a really nice place to stay in but since we lack budget that time, we just had to make sure we enjoyed the most out of our stay there. After our 3D/2N stay in Bohol, it was time for us to leave Bohol and take good memories with us. We went to Cebu from Tagbilaran Port via Supercat. 

One morning at Maribago White Sands

Our bigger room: Room 321

When we got there, I could compare Cebu to Manila but less populated. Then we head off to Maribago beach to enjoy our stay there as well as to see what the place has to offer.  

Path to our room

When we got there we really liked the place. It was spacious and the surrounding was so calm and inviting. 

When we got into our room, we were invited to rest for a while that we almost forgot to take a tour to its facilities. I really liked the place as it has a different perspective to us. What I don't like though would be their beachfront. It has a fence that limits us from enjoying a long beach walk.


Since only our accommodations were free of charge, my wife's contact told us to eat as much as we can and they'll take care of the bill. That's really nice of him (Thank God for my wife who has lots of contacts XD). 

The next day before we checked-out, I took some photo's of the place. The sky was so blue as the sun rises up. But my camera wasn't cooperating with me at that time so I won't be able to post those pictures as it won't give justice to how beautiful the place is.  


Realization: Actually, its just an additional bonus for us in staying in another city without spending much. As I've said before, God was really good to us ^_^.

Recommended for: Those who prefer staying inside the resort rather than going out and do beach walks since their beach front is very limited. 

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): None probably since we were satisfied with the first leg of our honeymoon.

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: None probably since we were satisfied with the first leg of our honeymoon. If we had extra money, we might have been to Baguio instead. 

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Stay in Bohol)

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

Pictures were taken by me and my problematic camera 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)

Honeymoon Destination in Bohol: Alona Kew White Beach

Address: Panglao Island, Bohol

Contact: I forgot. XD

Cost: I forgot. XD

Inclusions: 3D/2N Stay at the Villa Catalina Superior Room

Verdict: Rating will be divided as follows:

Accomodations: Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Amenities: Swabeh!!!

Beachfront: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Beautiful Beachfront

Find our room here

Taken while I'm on water

Wedding Kwento: Actually, we were not welcoming the idea of having a honeymoon since we don’t have enough money even for a Tagaytay honeymoon. Its like wishful thinking that even we don’t have any plans where to go to our honeymoon, I would be happy to spend it anywhere with my wife. Then, her boss which happens to be our ninong told her that they will be covering our expenses for the honeymoon in Bohol and in Cebu. I was really overwhelmed with his offer I couldn't say no.

Room 102: Our Superior Room

First Sunset in Panglao

Once we got to Bohol and got all the things we need, we proceed to the resort where we stayed for 3 days and 2 nights. The room was nice and clean. All of the basic things that we need were there and we had cable TV which keeps us busy especially at night. The good thing is its only a minute away from the beach front.

Early Sunrise

Path to our room

On the second and third sunrise there, I can't help it but to be amazed on how the place was really beautiful but I only got to enjoy the sunset on our first stay there since my camera ran out of battery after our countryside tour. We were able to swim on the beachfront as well as the pool before checking-out and leave for Cebu. 

My last breakfast

Realization: God is really good to us despite what happened to me a few months back.Honestly, I never expected that we would be able to travel down south as I was jobless back then.

Recommended for: Couples who loves to go to the beach and enjoy either the sunrise or sunset.Couples who love to travel down south and explore places.

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): A 5D/4N trip up north (Ilocos Region), down south (Bicol Province) or down far south (Anywhere in Visayas or Mindanao)

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: A 5D/4N trip outside the country (Probably Singapore, Malaysia, or Thailand).  

The Kasalang Batagueño-Ilocana Suppliers Rating (Our Tour Guide in Bohol)

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. 

Pictures here were taken by me and my camera which has auto focusing problems back then. 

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)

Honeymoon Tour: Bohol Countryside Tour c/o Daboy Pabatao

Address: Tagbilaran & Panglao in Bohol

Contact: Mr. Daboy Pabatao

Cost: 2500 pesos for the Countryside tour and 1000 pesos for the transfer Tagbilaran Airport to Alona Kew to Tagbilaran Port (2009 rate)

Inclusions: Countryside day tour with transfers to and from the resort.

Verdict: Oh Yeah! Swabeng-Swabeh!!!

Wedding Kwento: After we landed at Tagbilaran Airport, we were looking for a someone who would take us to Alona Kew and then to Tagbilaran Port after our stay. There are several guys who offered us to take us there. But Daboy Pabatao got to offer us his service first hence we got him to take care of our ride. 


Once we got him, we ask him to take us to the nearest shopping center so we could buy some food for us to take to the resort. While my wife was buying food, I got to talk to Mang Daboy and he told me he used to live in Sampaloc before moving to Bohol with his wife and raise a family there.

After that he took us to St Joseph the Worker Cathedral in Tagbilaran Bohol for free (we only paid for the transfer from the airport to the resort).

 Fronting the Church

 Inside the Church

On our way to the resort, my wife and I agreed that Mang Daboy will be our official tour guide during our stay in Bohol. All she had to do was a little haggling with him before he agreed with the cost of our countryside tour the next day as well as the transfer arrangements the day after. 


The next day, we received a text message that he is already at the resort waiting for us. He got earlier than expected as he probably knew how eager my wife and I wanted to see Bohol's beauty. 

At the start of the tour, We went to the blood compact monument to see the statue of the event known as Sandugo. 

  The Blood Compact Monument

This Sikatuna-Legaspi blood compact is considered as the First Treaty of Friendship between two different races, religions, cultures and civilizations. It was a treaty of friendship based on respect and equality.

Our next destination was the famous Baclayon Church. The Baclayon Church is the oldest Catholic stone church building in the Philippines. It was constructed during the Spanish occupation and the first Spanish missionaries (called doctrineros) settled in the area in the late 15th century. Today you can still see the original stone structure of the Baclayon Church in the City of Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines.

Fronting Baclayon Church

The reason why we light candles

There were preparations for a wedding that time. I wanted to take pictures of the wedding but we don't have the luxury of time so I just took more pictures. Before we left, we had to go to the Baclayon Museum to see some old church artifacts but picture taking was not allowed inside the museum.

Inside Baclayon Church

Our stay at Baclyon Church ate much time that we had to rush to Chocolate Hills. But before we got there, we stopped by The Butterfly Sanctuary in Bilar Bohol.

The butterfly seems to enjoy her nose XD.

We learned a lot from these butterflies. We were even informed that there were homosexual butterflies XD.

Then we got to Chocolate Hills in Carmen, Bohol.

One of the hills

Getting a glimpse of these hills took us probably a hundred steps or more but going up and see the entire view was really worth it.

A hundred steps more

To witness this magnificent view

Then after our tour in Chocolate Hills, we were in a rush going to Loboc River for the cruise. Since we passed the man-made forest in Bilar prior to going to Chocolate Hills, we stopped by the man-made forest.

Feel like you're in the US XD.

The Bohol Forest is a man-made mahogany forest stretching in a two-kilometer stretch of densely planted Mahogany trees located in the border of Loboc and Bilar towns. Before and after this man-made forest are the naturally grown forests of Loboc and Bilar which are thick with a kaleidoscope of green foliage, different species of trees and giant ferns lining the road.

The man-made forest stands out because of the uniformity in height of the big trees, the spread of its branches, thickness and design of leaves. Seedlings abound around the older trees. Trunks, some thick and others just a few months old, grow resplendently straight up towards the sky which is obscured by the branches and the thick leaves.

After our quick stop to see the man-made forest, we proceed to Loboc River to catch their cruise for lunch.

There were other boats that went ahead of us since its already lunch time. Were lucky that we were able to catch the last one for lunch.

Taken from our boat

The Loboc River is now one of the major destinations of tourists, local and foreigners alike. Located in the Municipality of Loboc, a mere 24 kilometers away from Tagbilaran City, the winding river plays host to cruisers on board small bancas or floating restaurants. Visitors are treated to a vista of lush tropical vegetation such as nipa palms, coconut trees, banana groves, and bushes.

Next time, I'll be back with a better gear XD

After our hefty lunch, we proceed to meet the tarsiers in Loboc XD. Bohol Tarsiers (Tarsius Syrichta) measures 4 to 5 inches and is considered as the world’s smallest primate. Its size is no longer than an adult man’s hand and weigh only about 113 to 142 grams or four to five ounces. The primate belongs to the more primitive sub-order Prosimii or prosimian that dates back 45 million years.

Sorry for the shot. It was really raining hard that time plus its very dark.

We were not allowed to use flash when taking their pictures so I had to maximize what I can do that time.

Then we visited the actual location of the blood compact site where it all began. Mang Daboy told us that the one in Tagbilaran was not the actual site but the one in Loay, Bohol.

See what the sign says? XD

Then we went on to Alburquerque in Bohol to visit Prony the Python. The town's short name is "Albur". Alburquerque is reputed to have one of the longest (23 feet or 7 meters as of 2005) and heaviest (300 kg or 660 lbs) python in captivity. The python named Prony is Albur's star and has known to.

I hope the little turtle was okay XD.

After visiting Prony, we bought some pasalubong for our folks back in Manila and made sure we bought a lot. We passed by 2 more churches to take a look and appreciate them even if its not included in the Itinerary of Mang Daboy. And when I ran out of battery for my camera, it means that Its time to go back to the resort.

Our experience with Mang Daboy was really fun and we learned something from the Boholano culture.


Realization: Its better to book a countryside/city tour separately rather than getting it from a package since it would be less expensive given that city/country tours would cost you per person in hotels instead of per van/car

Recommended for: Couples who will be going to Bohol and enjoy the countryside

Other Suppliers Considered (Given the same amount of time for preparations): None. We were highly satisfied with his skills as a driver and as a tour guide.

If we started our preparations last Dec 2007, we could have gotten: None. We were highly satisfied with his skills as a driver and as a tour guide.

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,