Bangkok Blogging... the saga continues

Seoul Searching

2008-09-17T16:16:00.019+07:00

This September, Joey and I are indeed going to Korea to have our authentic Bibimbap and Beef Bulgogi lunch, then have coffee at the actual coffee shop used in Coffee Prince then end the afternoon with a cruise at Han River. At night, we will go to Nami Island, the site of the famous Winter Love Song telenovela.

It sounds so surreal and like some made-up stories but its not. My boss had just given me a free trip to Korea for some R&R with my husband as a birthday gift!

The weeks before my birthday (August 30) had been so hectic because of our transfer to our new home at Manhattan. I told everyone that my birthay celebration will be on the 6th of September instead and it will be at the new condo.

But then, surprises just kept on coming my way...

1st Joey gave me an LV bag -- my greatest bag ever!

2nd, my team gave me a surprise birthday celebration on the 28th of August. They came up with the concept of everything KOREAN. So, they all dressed up as characters from various Korean movies and telenovelas I've seen. I have to guess which movie they represent then I get a chocolate for every correct guess I made. Then they gave me this really delicious chocolate cake after singing happy birthday.

3rd, they had a 2nd surprise on the same day by making me find clues and answer questions from different people in the office. Of course, being stratregic planners, its still all under the Korean theme. I got to collect pictures from various Korean telenovelas when I answered the questions correctly. Finally, it all led to the brainstorming room where Lynne, my boss was waiting. They docorated it in Korean theme with a wish tree containing various birthday wishes from different people in the company. And they prepared gifts with meaning which they gave me one-by-one.

4th, the surprise didn't end there. They made me form the puzzle at the back of the Korean pictures I got. What I saw is a bigger picture of a girl in Korean costume and the last question asking where can I enjoy great Korean food and the sights of Korea. The answer is Korea of course. Then my boss said she is giving me and Joey a trip to Korea as a gift! I got so overwhelmed it filled-up my heart to the brim and welled up in my eyes.

Lastly, we had the most sumptuous Korean lunch in the office! They ordered everything from a Korean restautant at Thonglor and its really delicious.

And so we are off to Korea for some R&R. I think our "Seoul Searching" will be worth the trip.

To be grateful for: All kinds of surprises -- big or small.

The Brain Factory

2008-09-15T10:22:00.010+07:00

I consider my Strategic and Account Planning team as the BRAIN FACTORY in our company. Work can get crazy that we can have as many as 8 brainstorming sessions in a day and write as many as 85 proposals in a month! The creative juices just have to keep on flowing as we can't just say NO, we won't do it.

And yet despite of all these insanity, this is one job that keeps my sanity. Every proposal released is a masterpiece and well-thought off. And it is such a rewarding experience when it gets approved and then we get to see our ideas implemented.

My Thai and Filipino teams are my treasures in the office. I found real diamonds in them. Here they are in an artwork rendered by Kam.

From top left, going right then down to left: Jane, Lara, Andrew, Fon, Kam, Pid, Kat and Vi.

Meet the Brain Factory!

To be grateful for: Finding skills and talents in people and having the chance to hone them.

A team that really works together.

A creative working environment.

The LVoe Bag

2008-08-24T01:15:00.005+07:00

Today I had the surprise of my life. Joey got me a Louis Vuitton Ellipse MM bag for my birthday! I never buy one for myself because designer bags are so expensive for me. But its a gift! Who can say NO to that? Thank God for husbands like him :-)

We took photos but the SD card slot I know how to use has been packed (we're transferring condo next week) and I dont know how to use the one in my laptop :-(. So, I got this from the LV site instead.

Isn't she a beauty? I love it so much because its exactly my style. I like bags with unusual shapes and spacious. I feel like a... (as Thais would say) hi-so girl.

I just have to share this news because its my first ever and this might never happen again! He said he's been contemplating of getting me an i-Touch and I'm so glad he didn't because I don't want that! Getting this LV bag really gave him a lot of pogi (handsome) points he he he.

So, should I use it or display it? Nyahahhaha...

New Life at Manhattan

2008-08-21T15:40:00.007+07:00

By September 1, 2008, Joey and I will transfer to our new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium at Manhattan Chidlom here in Bangkok. For us, its just so beautiful and we are overly ecstatic about it.

The building is less than a year old and we are the 1st tenants!

Here's a glimpse.

The past weeks kept us busy putting stuff in boxes as we prepare to move in on the 30th of August which is my birthday.

Our company has transferred to a new location and we found it necesary to move somewhere nearer my place of work.

Security is very tight at Manhattan plus its near all the malls and shopping places which Joey likes a lot.

We will miss Baan Somthavil a lot. We stayed there for almost 4 years and I will really leave with a heavy heart. But, the prospect of staying at the 20th floor of Manhattan Chidlom soon is also worth looking forward to.

Whew! I'm Back!

2008-08-09T19:10:00.003+07:00

It's been a long time since I last updated my blog and I am sure some of my blog visitors are wondering what the hell happened to me!

I panicked a few days back when I tried updating this blog because I can't log in. Though I am a non-techie, I tried figuring out how, while controlling myself from running to my husband for help (pride). And I did it!

For the next few days, I shall pick up where I left. Hmmm... and that will be more than 2 years after the wedding! Nyahahhhaa!

The good thing is that there will be lots of stories to tell.

And by the way, I already got the wedding photos from Terry Uy. Again, 2 years after :-)

Till my next posts...

Once upon a wedding...and Europe!

2006-10-08T11:18:00.001+07:00

I have posted some photos from the wedding and our European honeymon trip. Click: wedding preps and Italy, Switzerland or France.

The wedding photos are just the preparation part. Still have to upload the others. I am doing the lay-outing myself that is why it is taking a long time.

Just keep on visiting my blog when you have the time!

Still on Sabbatical

2006-07-23T23:36:00.001+07:00

I know, I know. I haven't posted anything on my blog for a loooong time. I still owe the wedding review to lots of people... arrrghh! Honestly, I had started it but I put it on hold first (it's a review worth reading, promise). There's just too much work in the office! Aside from PINQ, I was also asked to lead our Healthcare Marketing company called Quantum. Plus, be in charge of training our new hirees. And then of course I have a husband to take care of.

But Joey has been my angel in all of this. He now got a consulatncy job in one of our companies. And boy, my Boss does like him a lot (more than me hehhee). So, I guess we will be staying in Bangkok for awhile. Joey has taken good care of me the past months after the wedding. I can say that being married is a worthwhile and one of the best decisions you can make specially when you ended up with THE ONE. My husband just loves me so much! And he spoils me a lot (which I like). At the end of a tiring day, it is so rewarding to come home to a husband who is so glad to see me home and would even love to give me foot massage :-)

I, myself, has been a good wifey too (yeheey). I find myself more calm and easier to deal with (di na masungit). Joey just makes my day everyday. He is really very nice and kind and very very loving.

I will definirely finish my Supplier's review. But I will try to post some stories in between. No baby stories for now as we do not have any plans this year. Maybe next year? I will definitely keep you posted.

Wedding Glimpse!

2006-01-04T13:35:00.000+07:00

I can't believe the wedding that we planned and prepared for two years was finally over! And now we are enjoying our first days of our marriage. It was all worth the wait and hardwork. In just a day, my dream wedding has unfolded.

The wedding ceremony was solemn, symbolical and sacred.

The church was filled with families, friends and fresh flowers.

The songs were all meaningul and created a magical atmosphere.

The bride and groom were radiant with love.

It was indeed a celebration of love.

Threelogy was magnificent enough to shoot and edit the on-site AVP. You can check it here:
http://www.threelogy.com look at the left side bar under NEW VIDEOS. Click "Say a little prayer".

Wedding stories, anecdotes, lessons, ratings and photos to be posted soon!

Here's a few pictures I got from friends.

Jane with the bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls and best men. Check out my bouquet with fruits!

The groom with our pretty highschool batchmates and some friends.

Here comes the bride!

St. Joseph's Bamboo Organ Church. The breathtaking flower arrangement in the church and banig carpet.

View from the altar. Fr. Rodel, a close friend and community brother, giving the homily.

Our green veil binded with green and orange swarovski cord.

Joey and I with my Catholic community -- Community of the Living Water.

Faith, my niece, little bride and mini me. She's wearing an exact replica of my gown. The only thing she lacked was the veil!

Our Zen Gazebo.

At the Saint Joseph Hall reception venue. Ping, my event stylist,did a fabulous job on the stage decorations and set-up. I love the zen gazebo of VS&F!

A game called "A Hole New World". Instead of garter toss and bouquet throwing, we played this game to potential couples. We gave 100$ to the winners plus they get the bouquet and the chance to put the garter on the winning lady's leg.

Happy to be married!

------

I really have so much stories to tell so keep on checking on my blog when you can!

Bouquet and Book of Photos

2005-12-04T15:31:00.000+07:00

Ferdie, my budding florist, sent me a mock-up of my bouquet and I so love it! It still lacks the twigs and the flowers are not super fresh yet but the choice of flowers, colors, fruits and overall arrangement are so perfect for me. Atleast now I know he can execute what I have mind. I can relax a bit on this requirement.

Next will be to finalize how we will do the flower arrangements in the church using bamboo trees or twigs with calla lillies or wide flowers.

I also went to see my photographer for pre-nups here in Thailand Khun Sanguan of Sa-Guan Foto to get our digital storybook. I suggest you visit his site as I am really impressed with this guy and his team. I will make him do our digital book for the wedding also. I was very satisfied with the output -- it's super clean and the colors are vibrant! He also gave me the framed 6 x 20 lay-out which goes with our package. There are 33 pages in the album. Here are a few shots of some of the pages.

This morning, I was also able to finish wrapping all entourage and sponsors gifts and then brought them to the freight forwarders. I will get it next Monday when we go home to Manila on the 12th.

As you notice, my updating is getting more frequent. Posting some updates here keep my sanity and relax me a bit. But I don't want to count the days anymore!

Wedding Shopping Phase 3

2005-12-03T19:58:00.000+07:00

And the shopping continues...

Finally, I got our Unity Candle (with 2 smaller candles) and I love them! Khun Prasert did a good job in engraving our monogram though he cannot do anymore the other swirling details. He also engraved some design on top of the bigger candle. And it smells really nice! He said it can last up to 100 hours of burning. I have 2 smaller candles for our parents. They will pass on these candles to us as a symbol of allowing me and Joey to now serve as the light on our own family. We will do this during the Unity Candle lighting ceremony.

This is what I found for the male entourage. You can fold the heaad and feet as indicated in the drawing and can use it to hold some cards, receipts, etc.

For my only sister, who will bring me to the altar together with my mom, I got her this really stylish beads necklace that she can use for her business trips or whenever she feels like it.

For the 2 mothers, I got them this gold plated and diamond encrusted lucky elephant "box". You can put a small piece of jewelry inside when you open it. This is really expensive and I am positive they will love this!

For the two flower girls, I bought these cute stuffed hippo that comes in a nice packaging.

For the bigger flower girls, I got them these 500-piece puzzle to make their brains work at an early age hehhehe.

And finally, I bought more beads and some tile mosaic which we will use to make the curtain backdrop for the photo gallery and photo-taking area. These beads and trinkets will be mixed with colored capiz shells.

For the first time in my life I am wishing that I do not have to go shopping again! My feet hurt and so are my arms! I am just so thankful that Joey will finally arrive on the 9th! It's been 1 year and we really miss each other so much. I still have a few more left to shop but I want to do it with Joey around so it will be more fun and I have someone to carry all the shopping bags.

Till the next update!

Social Butterfly

2005-11-30T21:36:00.000+07:00

We have 400 guests for the wedding. I even cut this down because it's originally 500! Well, my mom is a social butterfly. Therefore, I am. Yep, yep. Too many connections and I want them to be there to join the festivities, too. Joey has less than 20 on his list. Buti na lang we have our highschool classmates so we have some 'common' guests hehhehe.

What does this mean? The seat plan nightmare plus wedding crashers.

But sorry I am strict on the guest list. And so does my coordinator. So, this is what we are doing to make sure everything is organized on the wedding day:

1. Seat Plan -- definitely!

2. I indicated in my invites how many seats had been alloted for every guest

3. My coordinator will computerize the registration and we will have 3 laptops that day (no problem coz Joey and I got 4 hehehhe). he guest will say their name and the at a click of a button their seat number will appear. then there will be ushers and usherettes to lead them. PLUS I told them to station people at the reception area to prevent exchanging of tables (ang pasaway ilalatigo ko)

4. RSVP by December 15 for final headcount

5. I controlled the other social butterfly (my Mom) to say this personally to all my relatives and her amigas when she distributes them the invites. They have to tell her if they will attend and if not, who will attend in their behalf. She will explain to them why we need those information - because there will be a registration where they will know table location.

6. If they are not in the list, we may have to ask them to wait for awhile until my team was able to seat everyone. Then we usher them where to stay.

Anyway, I think we can accomodate even uninvited guests. Normally there is 10% buffer from caterer so it shouldn't be a problem. I just want to make sure that the ones invited will get the priority seats.

I hope this works!

Wedding Shopping 2nd Phase

2005-11-27T15:35:00.000+07:00

The Chatuchak Queen is back with more wedding gifts.

Today I went back to the knockdown lamps vendor to buy more for the female sponsors. So all of them will get this except for Lynne, my boss. It's a bit pricey but it's okay. The vendor told me that everytime I buy, I help the villagers from some far flung province in Thailand. That's a thug in my heart but I stil manage to get a little discount.

My problems regarding the men are solved. I went to this pewter shop and bought many stuff. For the male sponsors, I got them this really nice photo frame with elephants. Again, everything's a bit pricey but I'm still within the budget. Only remaining gifts are for the flower girls, my aunts and some groomsmen.

Oh, by the way, I found a super duper creative guy who can do our unity candle. He can etch our monogram as part of the candle design! Ang galing! I can get it by next week -- 1 big candle and 2 small ones for 340 Baht or 480 pesos.

I have started typing the misalette and I think I can finish it by tonight. Tomorow I can send it to Fr. Rodel for his comments.

Till the next updates!

Wedding Shopping 1st Phase

2005-11-26T15:51:00.000+07:00

Today I went to Chatuchak (Bangkok's famous weekend market) to hunt gifts for the wedding sponsors and entourage. I was so happy to find a lot of neat stuff to give!

For the female sponsors, I found this nice knockdown lamp.

These bags below are for the female entourage. The designs depend on their personality that's why I have 2 styles.

For my wedding coordinators' staff, I found these really neat handmade soaps. I will just add more drama in the packaging.

I am still having difficulty finding the gifts for the male sponsors and entourage (men!). Maybe I will have more patience tomorrow (sigh).

Still pending: kids, parents and suppliers (Durian chips and Bangkok sampaloc for them).

Then next week I will do my Christmas and wedding shopping for Joey.

I can't believe it's only a month left!

Winter Updates

2005-11-23T00:18:00.000+07:00

Finally! It's winter in Bangkok. The raining has stopped. Monday morning, I was surprised to feel the cool breeze of air that greeted me as I stepped out of the condo. And then I realized it's winter!

Yep, Thais call it winter. And it can get really very cold. As in you have to wear your light jacket or wrap around a pashmina or shawl on your body to keep it warm. Just today, after I finished having dinner with my colleagues at a Korean Restaurant along LangSuan Road, I decided to walk home. And my golly it was a chilly windy night! I think I'm gonna catch a cold
:-(

And since it's winter, it means December is fast approaching (yay). Anyway, I was able to accomplish a lot of major things the past few days. Here goes my winter updates:

1. Sent all invites for distribution to Manila last Saturday (I spent only 360 Baht from the shipping company I know for 1 box containing 200 invites.Yipeee! Super savings!)

2. Distribution instructions - sent to my coordinator

3. Glass bulbs for beads bracelets - sent to Manila, 300 sets

4. Wedding favour tags, guest sheets, table numbers - print this weekend

5. Misalette - start typing this weekend; print all on week of November 28

6. Photo gallery - choose photos and bring to shop for developing

7. Photo-taking area - buy more beads as part of decoration (capiz and beads combined)

8. Entourage make-up artist - booked; Jayvee Flores

9. Reception seating arrangement - follow-up coordinator

10. Reception script - start writing this weekend

11. Beads accent on ring and unity coin box - start this weekend

12. Silk pillow for ring box - source out materials this weekend (DIY)

13. Unity Candle - source out in Chatuchak

14. Cord - done (DIY). I decided to make it 2 colors with Swarovski in the middle

Joey will be here on the 9th of December. Alas after almost a year we will see each other! I feel so happy and giddy!

And we still have 34 more days of tension before the big day!

Honeymoon Blessings

2005-11-16T17:06:00.000+07:00

4 months ago, I planned to surprise my h2b (Joey) on a second honeymoon trip to Switzerland. After our Boracay honeymoon, what he knows is that we will go to Singapore but on the departure day, i will reveal to him that we will go Switzerland. So, I started planning for it.

However, I had to let go of that plan because I forget we have to attend this highschool reunion after our Boracay honeymoon. It's a good occassion to attend because we will be seeing our classmates after 20 years! And everyone's excited for both me and Joey since we were classmates in highschool. We just have to attend that momentous event, too.

I finally told Joey about my plan. He was soo excited about Swtizerland but he said we can go next time. No problem.

However, 2 days ago, my boss called me up in a panicky voice asking me if I still plan to surprise Joey on that Switzerland trip. It was because, secretly, she has been planning to give me and Joey a honeymoon surprise trip as a wedding gift! But she has to reveal to me her plans 2 days ago because she found out about my plans from a colleague and she panicked that her plans might go futile.

She is giving me and Joey a trip to Europe or Japan! We can either go to one country to explore or go to several countries!

Of course I chose the trip to Europe.

I am supposed to keep this as a secret to Joey. It's okay to post it here since Joey rarely visits my blog hehhehe.

We need not rush to go there after the wedding. I told her we can go to Europe during the Songkhran Holiday here in Bangkok (almost the same period as our Holy Week). It won't be that winter cold in Europe so perfect to travel.

Isn't this a wonderfeul blessing? Just when I thought our plan went poof, a better offer came and for free!

Note that this is the same boss who gave us those expensive flute glasses which we will use for our wine toasting.

Hay swerte (how lucky).

Thank you Lord :-)

and thank you Lynne (my boss), too.

Our Invites and Other Updates!

2005-11-14T10:56:00.000+07:00

Finally, after being quiet for a loooong time, I have time to update my wedding blog. Things got kinda crazy when I hit the 100th day. I went to full blast preparation, coordinating from Bangkok, buying beads, supervising the invites printing, etc. And voila! One day, my hardisk crashed!!! Yes, and just like Carrie in Sex in the City, I didn't back up. All the wedding files were there. My months and months of research all gone. I went to Compaq and they told me they had to change the hardisk entirely so I should have the file saved in an external hardrive. Sad to say they cannot save my files anymore. I think it was affected tremendously causing not only bad sectors but worst sectors :-). Anyway, I have lamented on it and I have no more tears to cry.

My life went on despite the hulabaloo with my laptop (which is less than a year old, brand new, sigh). Maybe i had too much wedding files hehehehe.

Last week I got the invites and they are fabulous! I chose 250 gram art card matte paper with spot UV lamination in some elements of the cover - our photo, names and the monogram. Then it has lamination inside.

I created the envelope which looks like flower petals when you open it and you can seal it by making the flaps overlap each other. Then we printed our monograms as a sticker to safely seal the envelope.

I did the calligraphy of all names on the cover. Then I added the final touch of tying in charms outside the envelop. I like the overall effect. My target is to have all these invites distributed by 30 November.

Now I can do the misalette.

Here are photos of the invite:

Something to Brag About

2005-10-18T02:00:00.000+07:00

I can honestly say that when I hit the 100th day of my wedding preps, I already started concentrating more on the most detailed part it. Booking suppliers are no longer part of my concerns (yeheey!) since I did most of it 12 months ago (whew!).

Last weekend, I finally finished the following:

1. Flash animation guide script

2. Photo AVP guide script

3. Detailed comments on floor plan, decorations and flowers

4. Our December meeting schedules (from December onwards) with suppliers

and wedding coordinators (my brothers from Community of the Living Water)

5. Updated the status of things left to do and timeline

6. Final comments on the pre-nups digital book

7. Final artwork for the invites (yeheey! I am getting costs from printers na)

8. Sent CD to Manila containing our pictures that can be used in the photo AVP

On top of this, I have started on the personal stuff like regular visits to my derma and the gym.

I really feel so happy that I am able to follow the timeline I set for myself. I think everything's gonna be fine.

1. Songs for Sentimental Groove for the church and reception

2. Misalette

3. Wedding vows

4. Reception detailed script

5. Staff and responsibilities

6. Pay tickets going to Manila and Singapore

7. Source materials for envelopes

8. Decorate treasure box and ring box with beads

9. Photo and video taking guide

10. List of materials for wedding preps, church, reception and honeymoon

I'll just add whateverI miss for the last week of October.

71 more days!

Our Flute Glasses

2005-10-09T08:19:00.000+07:00

My boss gave us an early gift which can be one of the precious things we can use in the wedding celebration -- flute glasses! It is made in Italy, designed with 24k gold and really very beautiful. I saw a similar one in the shopping mall and I cannot believe the price! This is truly a very wonderful gift. Joey doesn't want us to bring them to Manila because I might just break them. But I really love it! So we will bring them and use them for our wine toasting. Here's to 80 more days!

EB with EJ!

2005-10-02T02:48:00.000+07:00

A fellow December 27,2005 wowie with the name of EJ Nitura came to Bangkok last week for business (commercial shoot!). It was really nice meeting a fellow wowie who have the same wedding date as I have! And it's such a small world because she happens to be a good friend of my colleague, Lara, her in Bangkok. Here are pictures to prove I had an EB with a wowie hehehhe.

Me, EJ and Lara

EJ and Lara

Some Wedding Details

2005-09-22T20:49:00.000+07:00

I've had these for a long time but never had the chance to post them in my blog. Anyway, here's few wedding details I have accomplished to finalize the past months after countless email exchanges, revisions, follow-ups, etc.

1. Final designs for the my mom and sister's gowns and entourage can be found here. Finally, they will go to take measurements from the seamstress Veluz recommended.

2. I have also finalized the cake design with Judy Uson and paid the downpayment.

3. Invites. Finally Joey and I chose this lay-out. The colors will be much lighter than this rendition, on course. We will use the monogram on the cake and on the stickers we will use for the fold over envelop. Minor corrections on the text then proceed to FA development then printing! Whew!

Invite front cover

The colors will not be as shocking as the computer rendition. It's three-fold. You open the the flaps from the middle. Joey and I intentionally wanted it to look like a modern contemporary invite. The oriental touch will be on the envelop which I will post once I have done a sample (DIY!).

Cover Spread
Too bad the monogram at the back looks small on this rendition but I swear its really nice.

Inside Spread

The main text will be in the middle with a watermark of our monogram (a nice touch) then on the left flap will be the Principal Sponsors and on the other flap will be the rest of the entourage.

4. Decorations for church and Reception Areas. I will be the one to give the basic guide lay-out for these 2 venues (see even thid I have to control). My caterer will take care of the entire set-up and my team of event stylists and coordinator will add touches for the east-west fusion theme. And, we need not spend a lot on this since we know how to DIY stuff! It's really good to be around creative people who have the same level of passion as you have. I felt good chatting with Nap, my wedding coordinator, as he is just overflowing with ideas. Both our creative juices are already overflowing at this point of preparation hehehhehee.

Some touches we thought of (I like sharing ideas):

a. Banig with rose petals for the "carpet" on church
b. Tiny bamboo plants with sinamay loops on the aisle and silver pails for the flowers - I want wild small flowers and twigs (very oriental)!
c. Lighted japanese lanterns as flower baskets for flower girls
d. My little bride will hold a small silver bell
e. I want the altar to be simple with white Calla Lillies only
f. Photo-taking area with nice backdrop at the reception area
g. Couple trivia on the table

So far, these are the things I can share for now. Will keep on updating on a more regular basis. Only 93 days to go!

Boxes and Trinkets

2005-09-11T19:40:00.000+07:00

I came from Chatuchak Market today (Divisoria counterpart) and I was able to find these three things I need for the wedding:

Our treasure box for the silver unity coins. I just have to add some ethnics beads on top to make it align to my motiff but the wood and brass lock is perfect for that fusion east and west theme.

Our ring box instead of pillows with ribbons (it's not really my personality). I experimented using my black satin cloth and putting the rings and I think its perfect. Of course we will not use black but our color motiff. Then I will glue some ethnic beads on top of the swing cover. I love it because the cover is attached to the case so I have less tension of my nephew losing these rings.

Various charms I will use as part of the string lock of my recycled paper envelop. I was also able to buy the colorful strings to go with it.

I was so tired walking with a fellow wowie, Alynn, but it was worth it. Atleast I am following my list of things to do and timeline.

More updates to come!

Wedding Updates!

2005-09-10T20:00:00.000+07:00

Finally an update after being quiet for quite some time. Work has really taken so much of my time and there are still a lot coming! I promised myself I will devote more time to wedding preps this period so I will be more relaxed in December (I hope!). Here's my list:

1. Downpayments made

a. VS&F Catering
b. Threelogy
c. Veluz
d. Madge Lejano
e. Terry Uy
f. Judy Uson

2. Reserved/For payment

a. Nami Villas + airfare
b. Pan Pacific Hotel
c. All flights (US-Bkk-Mnl; Bkk-Mnl)

3. Need to buy/produce

a. Joey's Suit
b. Glass bulbs (400 sets)
c. Principal Sponsors' gift (something from Bkk)
d. Ento's gifts (something from Bkk)
e. Sinamay, beads, ribbons for envelopes
f. Ethnic beads for cord
g. Invites - revisions done; finalize names then proceed to do FA then print
h. Stickers and tags using monogram
i. Prenups coffee table book by Sa-guan Photo - for revision
j. Buckets and banig

4. DIY

a. Sinamay invite envelopes
b. Cord
c. Mosaic treasure box for unity coins
d. Photo AVP
e. Table Trivia

5. Write script

a. AVP for Threelogy
b. Flash Animation
c. Reception programme

6. Finalize lay-out

a. Reception
b. Photo gallery
c. Church's floral arrangement - with Ferdie

7. List down

a. Songs for Sentimental Groove - Church and Reception
b. Photos needed for AVP

8. Look for references

a. Bridal bouquet - twigs, fruits, wild flowers

I am now entering the detailed stage. I feel so tensed but I know I can make it in time. Just like the way I handled all my big events in Bangkok in so little time to prepare. Lord please help me...

A bride-to-be's Birthday Celebation

2005-08-28T21:31:00.000+07:00

Last Saturday, 27 August, I celebrated my birthday with some colleagues and friends even if my real birthday falls on the 30th. They wanted to celebrate it early so more people can join. I really enjoyed the party to the max! We did it at the poolside of my condo so that people can swim anytime (but nobody swam). Gin cooked red sauce for spaghetti and I did the white sauce and the ground pork filling for the tacos. My officemates brought the toffee banofee cake, chocolate cake, drinks, salad and other food. I was very tired but it was fun. They were surprised when I gave each of them a gift -- a CD with compilation of good songs I really like (hehehhe). I am sure they will like it. I've received many nice gifts from them like a new set of bed sheets (yahoo!), Shanghai Tang shawl from my boss (really expensive), necklace from Hui and cute Hello Kitty pillow from Ton and his wife. Post pool party, everyone transferred to my unit and continued to party there. Lynne, my boss, ended the night by making everyone say something really nice about me. I was so tired and yet happy. I missed Joey so much. I wish he was there with me to complete my day. This is my last birthday of being single and I did enjoy the celebration. Looking forward to my birthdays spent with Joey!

My Gown's Handpainting

2005-08-13T18:11:00.000+07:00

Today I feel so ecstatic. After three (3 ) months of waiting, my designer, Veluz, was finally able to find the artist who can render the handpainting on my gown using light Japanese strokes. I was very strict and particular with her regarding the handpainting since I studied Chinese and Japanese art. And I am so happy with the outcome. We will just have to adjust it according to my color motiff. Another accomplishment from my long and never ending list of things to do before the wedding.

I've been tagged!

2005-08-07T16:48:00.000+07:00

A fellow wowie, vannie, tagged me a few days back to answer life's most profound questions (hehhehe, peace vannie!). So here goes my answers...

1. What are the things you enjoy doing even when there's no one around you?

These days? Imported gossip and lifestyle magazines! Thailand translates imported magazines like Cosmopolitan. Sigh, so I have been addicted to catching up on Hollywood gossips. The downside is that I keep on reading stories about Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie. Aaaargh!

I also enjoy dancing, taking pictures of myself and running in the park, of course.

2. What lowers your stress/blood pressure/anxiety level?

A chat or phone call from Joey
A good run in the park
Good project results -- happy clients

3. Tag 5 friends and ask them to post it in theirs.
Five? Hmmmnn, let me see:
Mimi
Angela
Krystel
CheChe
Rhoneil

Old Staff, New Stuff

2005-08-06T21:10:00.000+07:00

Yesterday, my officemates and I went to GREAT AMERICAN RIBS for an old colleague's farewell party. I feel sad as I was the one who hired her and trained her for some time. She was a "star" last year hitting her target and doing really well with her career. I will surely miss Jaja. Of course, there were lots of picture-taking and goofing around. Lynne and I went home 10:30 pm. I heard they all went drinking and dancing afterwards at RCA.

Then today, my team transferred office again! Anyway, it is good news for me since it is along LangSuan Road... very near my condo yahoo! Now, my home is just walking distance to the office. And I love LangSuan! Across our building is Starbucks, then there's a nearby 7-11 store, plus of course hundreds of restaurants with yummy food with a good ambience to go with. I took photos of the new office though the guys are still fixing their stuff.

Food Trip -- PanPan

2005-08-06T20:29:00.000+07:00

Last Saturday, I had an "unscheduled" dinner with my office colleagues and my ex-staff, Sirikan. She has become a friend of mine but has rarely seen each other after she resigned.

I was in a middle of brainstorming with Joey via Skype when she told me she just came from Europe and was in Bangkok for the night. So we decided to meet at PanPan LangSuan together with Kiam, Lara and Anne. Since it is just walking distance to my condo, I decided to go. Plus, I don't think I can resist the baked cheesy spinach, thin crust pizza, and lots of pasta!

See you on the next food trip!

What Kind of Bride Am I?

2005-07-24T01:25:00.000+07:00

Surprise! You are a unique bride!

I visited Dei's blog and she had this quiz on what kind of bride you are. Well, true enough, I came out to be a unique bride being non-trad and all. You can check yours!

What Kind of Bride Will You Be?
brought to you by Quizilla

Harry Holiday

2005-07-22T15:12:00.000+07:00

Today my heart sings! I just got hold of my hardbound copy of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. It's another long weekend in Bangkok because of the holiday today (start of Buddhist lent, I think) and this is indeed a treat for me!

Eversince I came to Bangkok, my boss, Lynne, buys the book first then gives it to me so I can keep it forever. Thus, my Harry Potter collection is complete.

And so for today, I am doing my best to finish a proposal. Then I will run later at the park. Then take a shower and snuggled up to bed with Harry.

I'm willing to stop my wedding preps for a day for Harry hahahah!

Food Trip

2005-07-17T22:58:00.000+07:00

Recently, I enjoyed lunch with some of my officemates at Atrium Cafe and Lord Jim's. I had the time of my life eating all the foie gras, fresh salmon and oysters I want at Lord Jim's. While Lara and I indulged on the beef dish we imagined as MECHADO at Atrium Cafe. Yum yum!

2005-07-17T22:55:00.000+07:00

Atrium Cafe, Landmark Hotel

2005-07-17T22:49:00.000+07:00

Lord Jim's, Oriental Hotel

170 days to go!

2005-07-09T17:10:00.000+07:00

Finally, Joey and I had decided on the invitation lay-out with the help of some kind-hearted souls who voted which one they like. Next step is to send it to a real art director to do the necessary enhancements. I found a vey good paper supplier in Siam Center where I can buy the textured envelope. The chopsticks and paper umbrellas are easy to find at Chatuchak.

Sigh. It struck me that I have to get full names of all people included in the entourage. I need mom's help on the Principal Sponsors as I do not know most of them.

Joey is still undecided whether he wants to weat a suit or barong. I don't want to pressure him anymore. Anyway, barong or suit, I have decided that the rest of the male entourage wear barongs. It's easier for them to find that than the suit.

Bridal bouquet -- still haven't found a sample of the style I want. I have to go through my wedding magazines again. I also need to find references for the church and add-ons to the reception so Ferdie (my florist) can do the lay-out for me plus estimate the costing.

Catering -- Arrrgh! No word from my AE yet. Have to follow-up some of my pending requirements from her.

It looks like 170 days is still a long way to go but I feel like it's only a week to go!

Our Father in heaven...

PinQ Group Hot Group

2005-07-02T16:47:00.000+07:00

The PinQuers!

The past weeks had been like hell for all of us. Soooo busy. But our efforts paid off when we won 4 out of 5 major pitches. Yahoooo! My team managed to goof around and look busy at the same time when we took these photos.

The PinQers: Jane the beauty; Ginganok the TALL girl; Sahanant in striped shirt; Wave in white and Tatchaphol on phone while typing at the same time.

Gin and I plan to try supermodelling as an alternative career. In case we don't hit our targets :p

Running Companions

2005-06-26T15:55:00.000+07:00

My new Nike Air and Mini iPOD from Joey

Yahoo! Today I bought my new Nike Air running shoes. i tried to salvage my shoes for 7 years but it was really in bad condition already. I did not choose an expensive one. Just comfy and light and will look good in any running outfit I wear. I really did not want to get a new one because I still have my Fila shoes but its not really made for running. So, Joey told me to charge it to him hehehhe. Now I will be more inspired to run. PLUS, I have my Mini iPOD also given by Joey last valentine to keep me company.

Who says exercising isn't fun?

Perfect Snack!

2005-06-26T09:32:00.000+07:00

Red Honey Tomatoes!

Recently, I discovered that these tomatoes are so good! It's crunchy and juicy and a little bit sweet. It's really like not eating tomatoes at all. Aside from being healthy (compared to chips), it is very good in helping prevent the de-activation of my cancer cells. I suggest you try it!

2nd Batch of Invite Studies - Help Us Decide!

2005-06-19T20:38:00.000+07:00

I have done several designs studies for our invites again. Please help us decide! Let me know your comments -- good or bad. These are just for the basic lay-out. Of course the REAL ART DIRECTOR will improve this. Joey likes all of these. And I don't know which one to choose also.

Help us please...

2005-06-19T20:29:00.000+07:00

Invite Study # 1

2005-06-19T20:28:00.001+07:00

Invite Study # 2

2005-06-19T20:28:00.000+07:00

Invite Study # 3

2005-06-19T20:27:00.001+07:00

Invite Study # 4

2005-06-19T20:27:00.000+07:00

Invite Study # 5

Jane and Joey Circa 1982

2005-06-18T23:51:00.000+07:00

Those were the innocent days...

Joey used to be the tallest in our class (he is 4th from right, back row of boys). And I was sitting 3rd from right,on the 1st row for girls. Who would have thought we will end up together? Most of our classmates can't believe as we are the least expected to get married.

And yet, God has his own way of putting that simple smile on our lips when his plans start to unfold.

Joey has been the most pleasant surprise of God in my life.

A gift I will treasure forever.

I must have been a good girl for God has matched me with the most loving and caring person in the world :-)

Lynne's Surprise Birthday Party

2005-06-05T17:31:00.000+07:00

Lynne, Me and our Thai Colleagues

Thank goodness Gig had the time to pull-off something really nice for Lynne's 2005 birthday. When I came back from Manila, she sent email to everyone on the plans for surprise birthday and asking for some suggestions. I suggested she considers buying Lynne an iPOD and instead of buying pizza for food, buy the easy-to-prepare Thai food like the mooping (barbecue), somtam (papaya salad), yam, and other stuff they like to eat. I just told her make sure there is something I can eat that is not too spicy!

Gig gave strict instructions that we go to Lynne's house at exactly 7 pm.

When Lynne arrived, Glai (Gig's beau) sang "Happy Birthday" in English in the dark. On the 2nd happy birthday song, P'Took Yay (our Finance Manager) came out bringing a cake and the lights were turned on. On the 3rd happy birthday song, we all came out to where we were hiding and popped the balloons we were holding as soon as we finished the song. Lynne was all in tears. She was really surprised!

As for the gift, Gig hit it right this time buying Lynne a nice cheong sam blouse from Shanghai Tang and a hair accessory that is really nice.

I still bought a separate gift for Lynne coming from me and Joey. I bought this really nice Case Logic black bag to replace her really old and overused black bag where she places all her documents. She was very happy when she saw it because she was really planning to replace that bag already.

We ended up going home past 12 mn. Lynne and I talked about various plans for the 3 companies, directions for people and for the 3rd company, PinQ's launch, next month.

I managed to talk to Jaja on her work situation and with Ben about some personal stuff.

It was really a terrific night and Lynne really had a blast on her birthday.

I will surely miss all of these and all of them once I officially move to San Diego with Joey.

It's still too early to think of that...

2005-06-03T00:28:00.000+07:00

Trial Hair and Make-up with Madge

This is just practice. They will still put it up in actual but can't do it during the TMU session because my hair just got rebonded. A, the hairstylist, doesn't want to put any spraynet on my ultra expensive hair! hahahha. A lot of people are saying I put my hair down because it is so lovely. So, I suggested to Madge that maybe we can do this:

Put my hair down in the church because my gown's back is really sexy (to cover it sa church)
Put it up during the reception
And A to fix it again during during party/dancing time so I can move freely.

Talk about multiple hair changes in one occassion. Hehehehhe.

2005-06-03T00:21:00.001+07:00

Happy!

Who wouldn't be happy when you're a Veluz bride? After the cacha, I tried on the Duchess Satin the following day (fast, huh!). And oh, I love it to the max. Both Veluz and I are excited on how the finish will look like when she starts adding the chantilly lace and electric pleats on the skirt layer. This will be seen on the hem of my gown and will extend as bustle-like skirt at the back.

Then, Niko will show me samples on how he will form the ethnic beads I chose to accentuate some parts of the skirt plus add some brooches.

The only thing Veluz and I had to figure out is the japanese handpainting on the blouse area.

I am so glad I got these two people to collaborate with me on my wedding gown design.

2005-06-03T00:21:00.000+07:00

Cacha fitting

I was so amazed with this cacha fitting. See all the pins and needles? It fits so perfeclty already. Only a few adjustments done on the chest area but the rest is okay. I am glad Veluz made the shoulders haltered because I have nice toned upper arms and shoulders. The effect... very feminine and sexy. The way I have always dreamt my gown to be.

2005-06-03T00:19:00.000+07:00

Full Gown

2005-06-03T00:16:00.000+07:00

Duchess Satin

2005-06-03T00:14:00.000+07:00

Back

My Very First Fitting with Veluz et al

2005-06-02T23:38:00.000+07:00

It's very surreal. I did a 3-day marathon visit to manila (27-30 May) to accomplish so many things for the wedding PLUS to attend my good friends' wedding. Met with almost all my suppliers including Veluz!

I sent her my measurements via email on Thursday, flew to Manila Friday evening, got my 1st cacha fitting at 8 am on Saturday, then the duchess satin at 11 am on Sunday!

I was so happy with the outcome. It fits perfectly. Considering that we have not even added the "kaartehan" like my layered skirt that runs to the back plus the handpainting combined with ethnic beads.

Niko also got my shoe size and showed me the shoe design which I immediately love! I also approved the cube bag since I like unusually shaped bags.

So far, Veluz and I finalized the ento designs and she recommended someone who can do justice to her designs.

VS&F visit was a success and my coordinator, Nhap, and my sister went gaga over my ka-OC-han and attention to details. I even let Dolly, my AE redo the ribbons on the chair and made sure we talked about all requirements in details. This weekend, I will send her the agreements just in case she forgets. I added a lot of extras at no cost which is really good for me.

Also met with Jon of Threelogy and I'm satisfied seeing their work for the first time. I just want to them to show me references of the fonts they will use. I will write the AVP script but still open for suggestions.

We finally agreed that we will show first the flash animation my sister will do to set-up the theme and to show how our love affair came to be to make it more engaging for the guests (because it's animation). Then the AVP will be shown towards the end of the programme to segue with the first dance accompanied by the Sentimental Groove singing "Till" of Side A.

Madge Lejano managed to squeeze me in her schedule and she was very OC with my eyebrows! And she kept on complaining because I am acidic. Any color she puts on my eyelids turn to purple! Hay, so she has to combine lots of colors just to make it look natural. And alas, the no make-up look after 2 hours.

I failed to meet Sentimental Groove, Terry Uy and Judy Uson. I'm not really worried since we communicate frequently through email.

The Cenomar certificate also came so I had my mom to keep it for me.

Next, invitation! Since I will be art director and copywriter, I will start it this weekend. Not really worried since it will be printed here in Bangkok and I know a lot of printers.

I'm still stressed but on the scale of 1 to 10 with 10 as the highest, 7 na lang hehhehe.

He's in San Diego, I'm in Bangkok and the Wedding is in Manila

2005-05-24T22:23:00.000+07:00

Great!

When I said yes to Joey 2 years ago on top of Banyan Tree Hotel here in Bangkok, I thought everything was perfect and rosy... but then the wedding preparations came...

It is good that I really really started very early in the preps -- 2 years! I didn't care if most people think I'm OVER preparing. But look, I am in a different situation and in a different country, too! (Not trying to be defensive here, just explaining hehhehe).

1st, I work here in Bangkok as the Director for Strategy and Creatives plus heading a 3rd company soon. That's not a joke! It means, my super OC boss (who is so worried about losing me when I get married) want 101% of my time. Personal life is different from career life. Imagine setting up a company on the year of my wedding!

2nd, Joey is in San Diego, I am in Bangkok and the wedding is in Manila. Ang ganda! You need here an organized list of things to do, super power coordination PLUS a real coordinator in Manila because there are really a lot of requirements that needed to be done. And if somebody else fixes it for you, better.

3rd, Joey is a Filipino who became a US citizen and I am a Filipino. So, there's that eeww ewww paper work on petition and all. Joey and I hated requirements like this. We're both lazy to do it by ourselves and it's difficult, too. We are always thinking of passing it to somebody else who will do it for us and we will just pay and pay hehhehehe.

4th, part of my job is doing events and I can't even give 100% of my time preparing own wedding! I am so tensed. It looks like it's still a long way to go but everyday I squirm on my seat. I can't eat properly.

5th, Joey and I are so different. That is why our theme is EAST MEETS WEST/Fusion. He has a different sense of time. I am super hyper and he is relaxed. So I always have to make kulit (to keep on bugging) to him everytime for the things he needs to do. If I did not do that, I think we are going to panic and rush on those stuff (like Church Confirmation Sacrament, booking flights, reservation of hotels, etc).

Anyway, for those who are overseas brides, here's a rundown on what I did to prepare. When people look at my blogs and webshots, they say I look very organized. Hmmmnn, but I still feel tensed!

Going back, here's the guide:

The 1st thing I did is to do a very detailed 2-year timeline. Our situation dictates that Joey and I can only see each other 2 times a year to sit down and talk about the plans and details. It's divided into:

a. Family matters - when will our families meet for pamanhikan

b. Financial matters - start saving for wedding

c. Careers - until when will i work in Bangkok? plan to apply job in US

d. Wedding preps (sub-details)
1. civil wedding (in case we need to do this for document processing)
2. petition filing and process
3. wedding date
4. people list (guests, sponsors, entourage)
5. materials (invites, tokens, etc)
6. church
7. reception
8. honeymoon
9. house plans

e. Post wedding

Joey and I made sure we followed this timeline. We were able to do most of it except for me visiting US this year to meet his parents kasi no more time.

2nd, we alloted our budget and I prepared a monitoring sheet for this. Then I started buying wedding mags, joined Weddings At Work and got references from internet to help me with the theme-- it took me 3 months to come up with a theme.

3rd, 1st quarter of last year (2004) , we finalized na the guest list, wedding date and theme with references (we saw each other only for 2 weeks).

By pamanhikan time of June last year, we already booked the church and the wedding plans are almost organized by the time we presented to our families (in powerpoint presentation). Again we had 2 weeks to do this.

4th, by December last year, I was able to get good suppliers so I started meeting them December last year and pencil book with them.

5th, by January this year we bought our wedding rings, had pre-nups in Thailand and finalized guest lists; booked all flights; booked and paid for honeymoon (Nami Villas in Boracay)

6th, By March and April of this year, I did our Save-the-date card and emailed to all to those I needed to email them and gave final deadline of 29 May to confirm

7th this month, I am already going home (for 3 days!) to --
- do final food tasting and pay 50% downpayment
- meet with all suppliers for final directions
- do gown fittings

8th.. none yet and to be continued

MY SUGGESTIONS --
1. Have a detailed timeline so you can plot everything
2. Make sure by the time you go to Manila, you are ready with your list of target suppliers, contact persons and numbers
3. Get a coordinator if you can afford

The important thing is you can decide fast so you accomplish things everytime you go home.

But don't get me wrong, I still enjoy planning. And Joey will always make me laugh everytime I tell him I'm tensed. And he will make things better for me.

The perks of having a fiance... :p

Almost June!

2005-05-24T12:52:00.000+07:00

Today I feel so tensed. Though my list looks like I have accomplished a lot, there are also a lot of pending stuff to do! And I am already Manila bound this coming 27 May. Lord, please help me. And the work I've been doing never seem to end. I just finished writing Qoo proposal, now 2 new projects came! I know I'll get through all these but I just can't help but feel so tensed.

Our Father in heaven...

Wedding Checklist

2005-05-09T23:28:00.003+07:00

Today, I realize I have barely 7 months to go before the big day. With all honesty, i am already in a panic mode. So far, all the major suppliers had been booked. I'll be meeting them when I go home this coming 28 and 29 May for Rhodze and Phipo's wedding.

I feel so tensed. I know that there are still MAJOR details that i'm procrastinating to do. In fact, before I go home, I should have prepared the AVP script, directions for VS&F, photo references for Terry Uy, and a lot more. Anyway, better check my list:

Things DONE:

1. Reservations plus pay reservation fees to the ff: Church, VS&F, Threelogy,
Terry Uy, Madge Lejano, Sentimental Groove, Pan Pacific Hotel, Nami Villas
and Sanguan
2. Cenomar, submission of baptismal and confirmation certificates. Except for
Joey's kumpil certificate.
3. Entourage list
4. Principal sponsors list
5. Guest list -- down to 400 persons
6. Wedding Favours (buy additional beads)
7. Gown color and material swatches chosen
8. Copy for Pre-nups digital album
9. Wedding rings with engraving

TO BE DONE

1. Invitation direction and copy
2. AVP script
3. Burning of pre-nups picture CD
4. Contract finalization with all suppliers
5. Judy Uson Cake revised lay-out approval
6. Buy glass bottles for favours
7. Favour tags
8. Do wedding cord
9. Buy treasure chest box for coins
10. Meet with other suppliers -- Miss Leony for Entourage, Boy Mahusay, Ping
11. Misalette and Reception programme
12. Responsibility assignment sheets
13. Measurement for gown

Hay, so far these are still the things to be done. Lucky 13 hehhehe. I'm sure there's more but my brain's just busted.

Will have to add on this list whatever I have forgotten.

2005-05-02T15:24:00.000+07:00

Pre-Nuptials at Ayuttaya, Thailand

2005-05-02T14:31:00.000+07:00

Our Save The Date Card

Pamanhikan in Manila 2004

2004-07-07T14:15:00.000+07:00

June 27, 2004. Sunday. 6 pm. All my family gathered for Joey and his family's pamanhikan (check previous post on what this means). It's not really a mega formal and traditional pamanhikan. I worked on the proposal for several months. And as expected, I still worked on it the very last minute hehehe. It was a joyful occassion for everyone since it was the first time for them to meet Joey. Noel, his older brother, and his family represented the Bio clan.

Mama prepared lots of food -- dinuguan, kare-kare, crispy pata, lumpia... all Filipino dish since we miss these menu hehheheee. My aunst prepared some of their specialty dishes as well. Surprisingly, some of my relatives were there like Tita Lydia, Ate Nateng and my mom's close friends like Tita Panching and Tita Lita. I am so sure they wanted a glimpse of Joey.

And he was so adorable! Talking to everyone, involving himself in every conversation. They developed an instant liking on him. My sister obviously likes Joey. He is just so lovable.

After eating, we presented the proposal and made everyone laugh. Its good I am already an expert in proposal presentation so everything went like a breeze. I added jokes in betweeb to make it less serous. But Joey was shy all throughout. You can view the rest of the pictures in our album.

They were impressed that everything is almost planned. But we still left some window of opportunity for them to involve themselves like -- donate lechon? hehhee and help in doing the wedding favours.

Everyone went home happy and full. Lots of food were left that almost everyone was able to bring something home. I requested to have the ribs and the Joey had all the empanada wrapped for him. We're off to Tagaytay the following day.

What a day!

Empanada
These Latin American pastries, filled with seafood, meat, cheese, vegetables or fruit are wildly popular. Thought to have originated in Spain, where the Empanada Festival is part of Galician culture, the name comes from empanar, or to coast with bread. Variations of this form of portable meals are found in Cornish pasties, Italian calzone, or turnovers.

To begin with, the pastry shell is flour, egg, oil, lard or shortening, and a liquid, either water, broth or milk. Some recipes call for yeast or wheat germ or salt. All dough is kneaded, rolled out to size, filled as desired, then baked.

Some recipes call for browning the tops under a broiler, then baking, to approximate the look of an old brick oven. Some cooks prefer to fry their empanadas, and this is especially tasty with bite-sized cheese empanadas, or empanaditas.

Here are two recipes you can try. Enjoy!

Pamanhikan Presentation

2004-07-07T12:14:00.000+07:00

The wedding proposal presentation using powerpoint

Beautiful Pran Havana at Prachinburi

2004-06-27T13:45:00.000+07:00

Pran Havana Vacation June 2004

2004-06-27T13:44:00.000+07:00

A friend of mine mentioned this place to me. A boutique hotel hidden in Pran Buri. I hired a van which took us on a 2-hour drive going there. The place is very dainty but clean. Lots of insects at night but they provided us with mosquito nets anyway. Joey was so funny because he is also afraid of insects with wings. So, when a cockroach flied into the room, we both ran. But he still managed to kill it because I won't hehehe.

We pigged out everyday because the food was so delicious. I think we had 3-4 courses per meal. They cook whatever you want them to prepare for you.

We tried going to the beach but there were dogs always barking at us. Feeling like prisoners inside, we were able to finish doing our budgets, guests list and few details of the wedding proposal. In a few days, we will be off to Manila for the pamanhikan...

Joey's Second Bangkok Visit

2004-06-19T11:41:00.000+07:00

June was indeed a happy month for me. After seeing each other last January 2004, we scheduled June as Joey's visit here in Bangkok. And the visit was crucial since we will officially start our wedding preparations which has to start right with THE PAMANHIKAN. Plus, this will be the first time everybody important in my life will meet him -- my relatives, the Community, my Saatchi friends, not to mention the reunion with our highschool batchmates!

Joey arrived June 17, 1030 pm via Thai Airways. I was so harrassed that day going in and out of meetings but I managed to go the airport an hour before. I waited for him at Terminal 2 with so much anticipation. I had my XDA on camera mode ready to snap his photo as soon as I see him. Hmmmn, but almost an hour has passed and still no Joey in sight. So I decided to go to Terminal 1. Ha ha ha! He was there, looking intently for me from the crowd. I saw his anxious eyes hoping to see my face he has missed for so many months! I ran towards him, kissed and hugged him tight and everything was alright. And boy, did he look great! He lost a lot of weight and he looked more handsome than ever... sigh.

Joey stayed with me in Bangkok until June 24. We have to be in Manila from June 25 - July 2. Then back to Bangkok again for sone last minute shopping then he has to go back July 4 to LA. We had fun in Bangkok despite my hectic schedule. Projects are coming in here and there and I have new staff joining. So I was caught in between of juggling my work and Joey. But, Joey, angel as he is, helped me managed everything. He even helped me with some of my projects -- typing and doing some research.

The fun part was that he was able to meet my Thai colleagues again who joined the welcome dinner with him at Bar B.Q. ICHIBANG, a Korean BBQ and grill restaurant at Lang Suan. We had nice dinner with Ben, Hui, Palm, Lynne, Jaja, Kij and Khun Viraj. After dinner, we went to this ice cream place to chat some more.

We parted ways nearly midnight while Joey and I ran to EGV Cinema at Big C Central World Plaza to catch the last full show of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

Pamanhikan - the asking of the girl's parents' permission to wed the affianced pair.The 'blueprint' of the wedding plans are drawn or made known on this occasion. The pamanhikan is often hosted by the bride's family where the groom and his parents set to visit the bride's family to formally ask her hand in marriage and discuss plans for the upcomming wedding over lunch or dinner. This can be a real uneasy situation if it's the first time for both sets of parents to meet. The groom- and bride-to-be may feel a little awkward (nervous even) seeing and listening to each parents consult each other face-to-face on matters like their wedding budget, guest list and the likes. Why bother with all the trouble? Filipinos seek their folk's blessings for a happy and hassle-free marriage. Afterall, pamanhikan is a treasured Filipino heritage which, first and foremost, avoids an awkward situation having the parents see each other as strangers come wedding day.

The Wedding Proposal

2004-06-13T03:56:00.000+07:00

Finally I was able to do the first few slides of our wedding proposal. This is very important for me and Joey since this will set the direction on our wedding plans. Just like any other big event, it should start with a proposal. A proposal is good when people get the full idea and the total picture in one passing. And I guess our wedding proposal should be that way! Strategic, creative and paints the picture.

I have a simple outline for this.

The title page
I was able to craft a very witty title which applies to me and Joey very well. It goes...

Jane & Joey: Our New Chapter, 20 Years After
2005 Wedding Plans

I am sure everyone will ask "Why 20 years?" So, the next slide will be a glimpse on how it all started 20 years ago and how it will be sealed with a beautiful wedding after 20 years to begin or continue our new chapter as a couple.

Oh, how I love it!

1st Part
Here, since we will be presenting to our families, I devoted a few slides to let them know Joey and me (for the family of Joey.)

Title goes: Let's Meet Joey
Who is he?

Then next slide shows a brief biography of Joey with pictures.
Then after this slide are his pictures when we were still in elementary and highschool.
Then Joey at present.

A few slides will de devoted for me, too (for the sake of Joey's family)in the same flow as Joey's.

2nd Part: ThemeThis part will be strongly supported by picture references

3rd Part: The Plans
Here I will put the wedding date, venues, entourage list, principal sponsor list, references for the gown, etc. This will be the longest part as the wedding details will be discussed here.

4th Part: The Suppliers
List of all suppliers we will use plus sample of their works.

5th Part: Your Part in Our Wedding
Here I will put the responsibilities we need to assign to our families and relatives. We want them to be part of the preparations, too. And this will be the portion where they can make suggestions on how else to make the celebration meaningful and joyful.

I was able to finish only up to Joey's part. I have to put a lot of effects per page. That is why it took such a long time. But I was very satisfied with the results.

I can't wait to finish this proposal. Joey will be here on Thursday and it has to be ready by that time.

Then, we will show this powerpoint presentation to my family and his family as represented by Noel, his brother, in the afternoon of June 27. It will be a big family gathering from my side since everyone is just so excited to meet Joey. There will be lots of food (yum!) and it will go on until dinner time. Yipee I'm so excited!

On a separate note, we were able to chat with some highschool batchmates today -- Jun, Trupel, Kai then me and Joey. We had fun laughing our hearts out with Trupel who is a declared gay. He revealed that he had a crush with Joey when we were still in school and he was really funny. Joey rode with the flow of conversation and he was very game, too, and it made the chat livelier. Hope to chat with them again.

Joey and I are both excited on the upcoming wedding. It's a year and half of preparation left and soon, panic time will come. But, first things first. This coming June 21, 22 and 23, we look forward to spending quality time at the heavenly Pran Havana at Pranburi. I need the break after so many months of hard work and being away from Joey. And I want Joey to relax, too. I can't wait to get on that place and spend the rest of the 3 days just with my Joey. I'm sure, we will do nothing but stare in the beach and be lazy all day long. For once, we will not think of work...

My First Bridal Gown Trial

2004-06-07T03:20:00.000+07:00

1st Bridal Gown Trial @ Queen Sirikit Wedding Fair

It is not yet my dream gown but it was significant because it was my first time to try on a BRIDAL GOWN! We'll, it's not everyday that I get the chance to prepare a wedding, right? Pia and I went to see the Bridal Fair at Queen Sirikit last May 30. Being stuck here in Bangkok with no real source of good wedding ideas, we tried out that one hoping we will get some samples, ideas, just like the way they do it Manila.

It was a disappointment because most of the suppliers are for photography and bridal gowns which are mostly for rent. Thais do not have the concept of buying bridal gowns. So, Pia and I tried on a few gowns just for the heck of it and of course to see if we will look great on them. I tried on this particular one because I like the mandarin collar. With my fusion theme, this is the collar i want exactly but sexier with a haltered cut to reveal my nice shoulders and make it really low at the back. The cloth materials are fabulous and they do the embroideries really well. The best part is that it is very affordable. So, the bride-to-be's got possessed and started collecting their business cards so we can call them in the future.

One thing I discovered that I really like is the Wedding Book. This photographer from Sa-Guan Foto studio has the style I like. She take candid, dynamic shots of the entire event and compose a carefully and beautifully art directed page by page wedding book! It is much much better than a photo album. She gave us a packaged cost of 35,000 Baht. It costs 500 Baht per page if I will just provide her the pictures in CD format. I really want to have something like that. I have to check if it fits our budget, though (as I do not want us to overspend).

Hopefully, when Joey and I go to Manila this June, we can be able to attend a bridal fair. I think Manila is still the best when it comes to dream weddings!

2004-06-06T02:17:00.000+07:00

Jane and Joey

The wedding coordinator is finally planning her own

2004-06-05T16:46:00.000+07:00

I am not really an official wedding coordinator, but I consider myself one since I have planned and coordinated so many weddings in my life. Being a creative, OC and super organized person that I am, all the nitty gritty that go with it is never a task but a fun and easy activity that adds color to my everyday living. Nothing can pump more blood easily to my system than a squirt of creative juices coming from racking my brains on ways to make an event a memorable one.

But then suddenly, the time finally came when heaven dropped me this chance to become the bride-to-be. The very thought of it sends a glow to my wholebeing and lifts me up some steps higher above the ground.

Joey proposed to me January 1, 2004 at the romantic Vertigo Restaurant located on the rooftop of Banyan Tree Hotel in Bangkok. It was a perfect evening for us starting the year together. I will post a separate side-story on how we were before and met again after 18 years.

Finally, I am getting married! Well, I am 34 years old. I think it should be high time. Thus, the OC spirit in me was stirred more vehemently beyond my expectations. All the excitement seemed to have numbed my "creative" braincells. Suddenly, I cannot think of anything creative for my wedding!

And so it is true with what they say that it is different when you are already planning your own. This is the very reason why I want to start the preparation for more than a year before D-Day. I want to make sure I can find the perfect theme, do the perfect plan, and most of all is to do it in a relaxing manner. Plus, the above-my-head-workload will definitely affect my time. So, planning early is the best option I can take.

After months of being lost without a theme, heaven took pity on me that lo and behold! I got the main ideas and strategies figured out already. I finally decided to have FuSiOn as our theme with various shades of green as the motiff. My Joey agreed already and I am looking forward to his inputs on these ideas.

Why Fusion? Joey and I are very different from each other. Imagine mixing the joker and the serious type, the artist and the IT, the talkative and the quiet person! And yet in some strange way, Joey and I are compatible in areas that touch the deeper part of us. Love does move in mysterious ways. It is like the meeting of the east and west. The mixing of the black and the white. We are the yin and the yang. I am beauty and he is the beast he he he.

How far have I gone with my preparations?

I gathered as much information I need to prepare my ultimate Wedding Day proposal. Yes, I am doing a proposal for our wedding to present to Joey just like any other big event (but this time Joey is my client he he he). It will be compelete with theme, picture references, details, the works! And, we will use it for the pamanhikan so it is easier to present everyone our plan. Oh my, I'm super excited!

Joey and I are following a timeline, though we are not too strict about it (hmm...I guess I should impose strict following of the timeline for the months to come). We have started our savings together. And we have our guest list already (though I still need to check it). Plus, we have the date finalized and where to go for our honeymoon (Joey did this ahead of everything).

The wedding is still a long way to go -- December 27, 2005, and yet we are preparing early. In fact, it's mid-2004 now and yet I have not really sat down to type the proposal, the guest list and the budgets. Plus, joey is due to visit me on the 17th of this month! Yaiiks, I must be out of mind. Well, got to go to finalize the guest list!