This has been long overdue. It’s been almost a year since our wedding and I originally scrapped the idea of making one. But I figured we owe future brides our share of experiences; just as how we benefited from information provided by previous couples. I did most of my research work through Weddings at Work yahoogroup. Needless to say, most of the suppliers we booked were wawie favorites as well.

We wanted a Chinese wedding with a twist. Not too traditional, not too stiff, not too boring and most importantly, not corny. And we had it all – the wedding of our dreams. Though we weren’t spared with glitches, I would still say it’s perfect for us. We, including our family, weren’t stressed with details. Almost everything went as planned. Most of the suppliers delivered well. The entire event was cozy, fun, emotional and memorable. The guests were all praises saying our wedding was beautiful, enjoyable, touching and well planned.

As I mentioned in my previous post, this will be more of a tribute to the suppliers rather than the usual rating. Will also be listing others who we didn't book but are also highly recommended. Now let's get started...


Church: St. Peter the Apostle Parish
◦ 1260 Pres. Quirino Ave. Paco Manila
◦ Almira (admin), Dennis (flowers and coordination)
◦ 564-4123, 564-6470, 0920-9115418
◦ http://www.stpeteronline.com
◦ stpetertheapostleparish_weddings@yahoo.com
◦ Inclusions: 1.5 hours ceremony, officiating priest, red carpet, flowers, 1 singer and pianist, air-conditioned. (We had our own officiating priest and singers).

The criteria we were looking for in a church – (1) Preferably near Malate, Makati, Intramuros area. We were planning for sunset shots at the bay after the ceremony. (2) Not too big because we want the church to be packed with guests. (3) Preferably air-conditioned. (4) Should have ambient lighting.

I feel it was God's plan for us to get married at St. Peter. We would pass by the church everyday on the way to and from the office. And the wooden doors would always catch my attention whenever we pass by. Parang nagwe-wave siya sa akin kaya super in-love ako sa doors na yan. :) By chance, I got to know more about St. Peter through wawie friend Gwen (Hi Gweny!). When we did an ocular visit, I knew instantly it's the right one as it matches all the aspect we’re looking for in a church. And best of all, the fee is cheaper compared to other churches considering it’s all air-conditioned.

The church has sufficient natural light which really illuminates the altar. Aside from overly obsessed with the wooden door, I also love the colorful stained glass windows! The church is considered small-medium in size with capacity of approx. 200, which was just right for the number of guests who attended the ceremony. So as expected, it has a shorter aisle. Perfectly ok for me. In fact, exact yun timing nung walk ko sa entrance song (sung by hubby *aaww*). It has a church loft (3-storeys) so high ceiling siya. Perfect for top shots during the bridal march. Interior is very nice and clean.

The processing of papers and requirements was easy. Almira was very accommodating and helpful. I had no problems dealing with her.

The flowers that come with the package were only simple ones so we gave extra for add-ons. We were very happy with the outcome. The flowers used were mostly roses in variants that match well with our motif (white and shades of pink). I especially love the overflowing flowers at the altar and candle stand arrangement. Turned out really beautiful on the photos. Really worth the upgrade.

Church coordinators and usherettes were very organized. I love the Filipinana uniforms of the manangs - white baro and gold skirts! Ang cutie nila tignan! :) While Dennis (the florist and the master coordinator) was hyper-active and super hard working talaga during the entire ceremony. Why? Kasi lagi siyang nae-extra sa mga pictures! *LOL*

I super love this church!

Other recommendations: Shrine of Jesus, Mary the Queen Parish


Officiating Priest: Monsignor Esteban “Bong” Lo, LRMS
◦ Assisting Priest: Fr. Peter Huang

We knew Fr. Bong and Fr. Huang for a couple of years already through frequent church activities in our parish. When we were planning our wedding, we wanted someone, who personally knows us, to officiate the mass. As I mentioned in my wedding kuwento, Fr. Bong's really a charm... the wedding ceremony was so lively and full of humor! :)



Reception Venue: Gloria Maris Shark's Fin Restaurant, Greenhills
◦ Greenhills Shopping Center Ortigas Ave., San Juan Manila
◦ 722-5508 t 10, 721-3504
◦ Contact: Angie

We occupied the second floor of the restaurant and it was really spacious. We were lucky coz the restaurant was newly renovated a couple of months before we did an ocular. So even though GM has been on business for quite a while, the interiors still look very new. Only minimal styling needed. Pricing was very affordable and flexible. The menu was customized according to our budget. The food was great (as always). For chinese lauriat, can't go wrong with Gloria Maris. Best of all, no more add-ons on the price... it's inclusive!

Other recommendations: Century Seafood Restaurant, One Esplanade

(to be continued...)

Labels: suppliers, tribute, wedding