Debuts and I Do's event specialists

Bohol Beach Weddings at Panglao Bluewaters

2011-12-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

Debuts & I Do's is excited to partner with Bohol's newest plush resort: Panglao Bluewaters for our Bohol Beach Wedding packages. The place is serene, calm and perfect for a destination wedding in Bohol. The staff is great, with fast smiles & even faster service.

As we went past the gate and entered the lush receiving area, we felt the burden of a busy working day roll off my shoulders. The first sight that greeted us was the large pool nestled among a row of quiet villas.

We excitedly checked out the deluxe bedroom and were delighted at the modern yet very romantic mood. Check out the floating beds...

and the minibar with the flatscreen tv...

and the exquisite bathtub which instantly made me feel like I (January) was in heaven. (For busy people like you and me, a long soak in the tub with bubbles, scented candles and rose petals is a very rare treat.)

Check out the ipod dock. These people thought of everything!

Here's the view of the pool from inside the room.

And a view of the room from the pool. Check out the cleverly disguised native urn & 'tabo' for washing feet before you enter the room. (I told you they thought of everything!)

After checking out the rooms, we took the golf cart to check out the beach area for the reception venue.

The first thing we noticed was the massage area standing stately and quite lonely in its own private area.

We travelled down a gravel-strewn path.

I just had to take a closer picture of the majestic mango trees as we passed by.

Beyond the trees was a quiet playground. It was spacious enough for the children to laugh & run around without disturbing other guests. They were several hundred kilometers away from the path, too, which guaranteed their safety. A few lounge chairs were scattered near the playground for adults to relax in while watching the kids.

Finally, we got off at Diwata bridge, which was flanked on the right side by a trickling waterfalls.

After the waterfalls was a serene infinity pool, that reflected the blue

skies!

To the left of the infinity people, I heaved a big sigh of relief as I saw the huge roofed restaurant that could comfortably seat 200 to 300 guests, in case of bad weather.

A few steps past the restaurant, we finally came to the beachside venue. This would be the location of the beach weddings!

This native hut, currently serving as a massage area, will be decorated with flowers and will serve as the couple's stage.

If you take a few steps down into the sea, the staff will paddle you towards their floating restaurant where you can have your first breakfast together as newlyweds, or have a raucous after-party party for you & your friends!

Forgive my mother's heart... But I couldn't resist inserting a photo of Jed soaking up the sun. While I was making a detailed inquiry of the amenities and other minute details that go into planning your once-in-a-lifetime dream wedding, he was doing his best impersonation of a relaxed tourist.

P.S. While I have made this blogpost as light-hearted as possible, kindly take note that I do not make this recommendation lightly. We checked out several resorts before I made my final recommendation. My dad, who is a true-born Boholano of the old guard, knows all the resorts and most of the owners, including several that were still being constructed. His advice was very invaluable as we discussed the details together.

Among the many factors we considered, Panglao Bluewaters seemed the best place for a Bohol destination wedding because it was very beautiful but also because of these:

-- the sales staff responded very quickly to our inquiries. In fact, they even made several follow-ups via phone & email, asking us if we had all the information we needed. (I just sent an email to their sales staff at 11PM and got a prompt reply after 10 minutes. Now, that's service above & beyond the call of duty!)
-- the lobby staff were smart and very accomodating (If you have ever dealt with not-so-smart lobby staff, you will know what I mean and why I appreciate them)
-- the backup venue is very spacious. Even on a rainy day, you still get the feeling of being pampered. Space gives the feeling of true luxury!
-- the rooms are spacious, modern & romantic
-- the beach venue is protected from strong winds by the presence of trees at the water edge. Even on a sunny day, strong winds can topple over flower centerpieces and Japanese lanterns.
-- the beach has a cement foundation sprinkled with sand. So, you get the best of a beach venue, but the ladies will not have to suffer the indignity of their high heels digging into the sand every time they take a step.

Of course, there were other details I considered as well. But, no need to bother you with them. That's what I am here for. :)

Enjoy!

Alex & Ira Jane: Water Into Wine

2011-10-07T03:19:00.000-07:00

With Ira's permission, I am re-posting her blog. Alex is a young full-time youth pastor who serves in campus ministry. With limited financial means, they were able to have their dream wedding. They are truly an inspiration.

---------------------*
Ira writes:
He gave it all on my wedding. Alex? No, not Alex. God :)

I was then a skeptic in the very first-place. That was 2009 August when Alex proposed. It was our very first anniversary as a couple. My eardrums can’t believe nor comprehend what my campus missionary boyfriend tried to ask me using a mic. I totally blanked out emotionally after he asked it the first time. Well, that’s probably the reason why he asked 5 times. In fact, I didn’t feel that I made him ask 5 times. I just can’t imagine where this guy would get the money on a wedding. It’s literally hilarious.

The thought is really funny and romantic BUT unrealistic for me then. There were only 3 words on my mind the minute I realized he was really serious. And they were - “Are you sure?!!” I mean at that time I was (ok, I deleted 'just') a preschool teacher and he’s a financially struggling (I assumed) missionary worker. So I kept on laughing. I can’t stop giggling that I forgot that he was actually waiting for an answer in English AND using the mic.

Incredible. He was just unbelievably incredible. He didn’t want to settle for a secret yes, but he wants a loud and resounding “Yes”! To finally end his agony and to his relief, I said yes. Why? At first, it was only because I love and trust this man and my faith was on God choosing him to be the one for me. That's it! The wedding? Um, I was thinking sleeping on it for a while. Hehe! So there it goes. The 17 months of preparation. But the truth is the preparation REALLY happened in 6-5 months only.

It started with a dream. Pastor Raymz would ask us about our finances but the highlight was that he would also ask us one more interesting question. This question lead a way for us in having our faith stretched by a colossal God - a God who shows His provision even in a wedding right in our own eyes :) “What’s your faith?”

Having faith. How much does it really cost? It costs stepping on water. This preparation is definitely that - a step on water. It can also be literally and simply called Trust Fall :) We started canvassing suppliers without any dough on hand nor any fat savings account on some prestigious bank. We just want to know the rates so that we can start praying about them with specific amounts. Prayer points were distributed to close friends (Thank you so much to all who prayed with us! You were all part of making that happen.). :)

And then slowly the down payments got paid. How? Support came from mostly people who were Alex' ministry partners, those who were touched, inspired, blessed by the idea that a young pastor is getting married by faith OR relatives/family members just excited and glad to see a cousin, a niece, a nephew, a son, a brother and so on get married AND many others who just simply want to bless and be part of a miracle this wedding is, had been and will always be. Water into wine it is for us, me and Alex, as what God had confirmed weeks before the wedding that this is gonna be the first of the many miracles He's gonna show both of us in our journey together. It's just the beginning of a lot more miracles He can generously give.

That’s the amazing part. Seeing how God brought all the support in. Support came in many forms - encouragement, presence, labor, a pat on the back, a suggestion, an offer, a discount, a privilege, a package (Praise God for BigChiz! :) ), and of course finances. All these came like a wave on the wedding day. A day before the wedding we still need 70K :) Sleep evaded us just dreaming about God’s provision. The faith He has faithfully authored taught us to take a deep breath and let go of the worries and the pesos that needed to be paid on that day. That was the day God taught us to let go and smile and just simply think of 2 words - HAVE FAITH.

He was the one who held us on that day. I was very sure it was high time for us to tie the knot, so I tried to remind myself – If it's His will, it's DEFINITELY His bill. Finances will definitely NOT be hard. Everything WILL be smooth no matter what. Then that was it! There was no turning back. Full-speed ahead, mate!

Well, in your life, if ever you encounter the question whether He will provide, THINK of my wedding. In His time, in His way, when we do what we know He’d always want us to do - there’s no doubt “HE WILL SURELY PROVIDE”. It stops being a cliché. Simply think of our wedding. Simply.

Today is our 2nd monthsary. :) (written on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 8:25pm)

View more of Alex & Ira's photos here.

Irish & Jamie's Enchanted Garden Wedding

2011-10-06T23:48:00.000-07:00

Irish wanted a garden-themed wedding filled with butterflies so we brought in lots of tiny faux-butterflies and displayed them generously on the cake, the centerpieces and the crystal trees.

Here are two of my favourite photos from her wedding showing the very beautiful mood lights that changed dramatically from purple to pink and to blue.

Paul & Rochelle's Bohol destination wedding

2011-10-06T23:17:00.003-07:00

Paul & Rochelle are a Manila-based couple who decided to have their wedding in Bohol. Long stretches of pure white sand, the breeze whistling gently and a calm quiet graced their day, making it not only a dream wedding for them, but a vacation getaway for their close friends and family, too.

Rochelle's parents wanted a solemn church wedding. Here is a picture of the lovely church decors.

After the church ceremony, we all went back for more pictorials at the beach.

I loved how the tables were decorated in Paul & Rochelle's chosen colors: chocolate brown and pink.

Rochelle dreamed of a rose pink wedding cake with elegant corals, starfish and seashells. There were also fondant cupcakes with similar decors for her guests.

Rochelle shared with me her dream to have luminaries on the beach.

Here they are smiling sweetly at each other during their first dance.

As their day drew to an end, the beautiful beach was illuminated with lights, the candle luminaries gave off a soft, romantic ambience and the Japanese lanterns wafted softly in the breeze. What a wonderful happily-ever-after.

Click here for more photos of Paul & Rochelle's destination wedding in Bohol.

How to get to Ever After (45 THINGS A GIRL WANT, BUT WON'T ASK FOR)

2011-10-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

Got this from facebook and loved it so much, I thought I would post it in my blog, too.

Guys, here is how you get to Forever After. :)

‎45 THINGS A GIRL WANT, BUT WON'T ASK FOR:

1. Touch her waist.
2. Actually talk to her.
3. Share secrets with her.
...4. Give her your jacket.
5. Kiss her slowly.

Are you remembering this?
6. Hug her.
7. Hold her.
8. Laugh with her.
9. Invite her somewhere.
10. Hangout with her and your friends together.

KEEP READING ..
11. Smile with her.
12. Take pictures with her.
13. Pull her onto your lap.
14. When she says she loves you more, deny it. Fight back.
15. When her friends say “I love her more than you”, deny it. Fight back and hug her tight so she can’t get to her friends. It makes her feel loved.

Are you thinking of someone?
16. Always hug her and say I love you whenever you see her.
17. Kiss her unexpectedly.
18. Hug her from behind around the waist.
19. Tell her she’s beautiful.
20. Tell her the way you feel about her.

One last thing you need to do to show her you actually do mean it.
21. Open doors for her, walk her to her car - it makes her feel protected, plus it never hurts to act like a gentleman.
22. Tell her she’s your everything - only if you mean it.
23. If it seems like there is something wrong, ask her - if she denies something being wrong, it means SHE DOESN’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT - so just hug her.

24. Make her feel loved.
25. Kiss her in front of OTHER girls you know!

WE MIGHT DENY IT BUT WE ACTUALLY LIKE AND KINDA WANT YOU TO TICKLE US ..
26. Don’t lie to her.
27. DON’T cheat on her.
28. Take her ANYWHERE she wants.
29. Text message or call her in the morning and tell her have a good day at school, and how much you miss her.
30. Be there for her whenever she needs you, and even when she doesn’t need you, just be there so she’ll know that she can always count on you.

ARE YOU STILL READING THIS? YOU BETTER, BECAUSE IT’S IMPORTANT.
31. Hold her close when she’s cold so she can hold you too.
32. When you are alone hold her close and kiss her.
33. Kiss her on the cheek; (it will give her the hint that you want to kiss her).
34. While in the movies, put your arm around her and then she will automatically put her head on your shoulder, then lean in and tilt her chin up and kiss her lightly.

35. Don’t ever tell her to leave even jokingly or act like you’re mad. If she’s upset, comfort her.

REMEMBER ALL THESE THINGS WHEN YOU ARE WITH HER NEXT ..
36. When people diss her, stand up for her.
37. Look deep into her eyes and tell her you love her.
38. Lay down under the stars and put her head on your chest so she can listen to the steady beat of your heart, link your fingers together while you whisper to her as she rests her eyes and listens to you.
39. When walking next to each other grab her hand.
40. When you hug her, hold her in your arms as long as possible.

MAKE SURE SHE KNOWS SHES LOVED.
41. Call or text her at night to wish her sweet dreams.
42. Comfort her when she cries and wipe away her tears.
43. Take her for long walks at night.
44. Always remind her how much you love her.
45. Sit on top of her and tell her how much you love her and then bend down to her face and kiss her while you’re sitting on her.

You’ll never know when she needs just a little more love .. ♥!

Joyce & Xerxes' eco-themed wedding

2011-10-06T23:08:00.000-07:00

Joyce & Xerxes' eco-themed wedding was very memorable because I love being given a challenge. Joyce was very clear about what she wanted from day one. She wanted less flowers and more-environmentally friendly stuff for her wedding.

Joyce gave out potted plants as her giveaways. As a special charming gift for her flowergirls, we also placed green teddy bears on their flower baskets.

Her very heavy bridal bouquet was made of green apples.

Her cake was decorated with butterflies and apples and placed on a simulated tree stump.

We decorated her centerpieces and all her church aisle decors with apples.

It was truly a very unique and environmentally-friendly wedding.

Here are some very nice messages from Joyce on facebook.

Click here for more photos of Joyce & Xerxes' eco-friendly wedding.

Chiqui & Alwyn's Leyte beachfront wedding

2011-10-03T23:21:00.003-07:00

Here are my favourite shots from Alwyn & Chiqui's Trash the Dress photo session which was done the morning after their wedding.

On the wedding day, the skies were bright and sunny as we did the makeup and preparation at Kuting Reef.

We proceeded to the church for the ceremony. The sakristan mayor told me that our floral arrangements were the best that he had seen so far, very simple and elegant. The flowers and stands were all shipped in from Cebu. So, his nice compliment made all our effort & hard work worthwhile!

Alwyn & Chiqui wanted an outdoor wedding. But, Kuting Reef staff insisted that heavy rains were on their way and they would not have time to transfer all the decors if it did rain. I stepped in and suggested a compromise. We had cocktails and the first part of the program outside: the Grand Entrance, the First Dance with ground fireworks, and the Aerial Fireworks.

Then, we stepped into the grand ballroom for dinner and the rest of the program. About 30 minutes after we were all in, it rained very strongly. So, everyone was happy to be warm and cozy inside. Alwyn & Chiqui were glad to have had the outdoor photos they wanted and my staff was glad to be spared the extra effort of having to transfer our stuff when it rained. It was a perfect solution!

I love the big smiles on their faces. Here's a favourite shot of me and Chiqui, after the reception ended.

Here is what she posted in my facebook shortly thereafter.

More photos of Alwyn & Chiqui's wedding here.

Matt & Charisse's Tagaytay Lakeview wedding

2011-10-03T22:24:00.003-07:00

Tagaytay is a beautiful place and perfect for Matt & Cha's intimate wedding for family & friends.

We held the ceremony & reception at Josephine's restaurant. I specifically asked them to reorient the stage so that everyone was facing Taal Lake with a view of Taal volcano.

Here are my trademark lanterns! I brought 3 from Cebu to Tagaytay for the candle ceremony.

Beautiful rose & daisy centerpieces in Cha's lilac & pink colours.

Here's a picture of the groom Matt with his twin brother. Yes, they had me taking second glances in confusion for a while. But, I figured out how to tell them apart after several hours.

Instead of the traditional bouquets, the bridesmaids wore special gold-sprayed filigree bags decorated with flowers, which they kept as gifts from the bride later.

As this was an intimate wedding for 50 guests, I requested the baker to inscribed the cake with all the names of their guests. The guests had great fun looking for their names on the cake and having their pictures taken beside it.

Cha is one of my favourite brides. I am humbled because she put her trust in me, a Cebu-based coordinator, to help with her Tagaytay wedding. And now, a year after, I'm also the godmother to her twin baby boys: very cute & chubby Tristan and Justice. As with many of my other brides, she is no longer just a client but a lifelong friend. :)

See more of Matt & Cha's photos here.

Sherwin & Mereciel's Rock and Roll wedding at Plantation Bay

2011-10-03T22:01:00.000-07:00

The groom sported a mohawk.

The bride bared her tattoos and donned fuschia pink sneakers.

Together, Sherwin & Mereciel are my coolest couple ever. They make the perfect rock-and-roll couple.

In fuschia pink socks and neckties, the groomsmen looked great. One of my favourite moments was listening to Sherwin teach his entourage how to tie their neckties. "The rabbit goes around the tree. Naay fox niabot. So, it climbs up a tree and then hides in a burrow."

I was amazed. I have always had difficulty with a necktie. But, now I will always remember how to make one, thanks to Sherwin.

Another favourite moment was riding with Mereciel in the Mercedes Benz bridal car from Plantation Bay to Cathedral. She said: "Time is flying so fast. Several months of preparations and in just a few hours, it will be all over and I will be thanking you."

Mereciel's mom couldn't make it to the reception. So, we contacted her via Skype and hooked the laptop to the lcd projector for everyone to see. Here is a very sweet note from her via facebook:

View more of Sherwin & Mereciel's photos.

The Debuts & I Do's cookie

2011-05-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

A few months back, we started giving away special Debuts & I Do's cookies to all our special brides & grooms, on their wedding day. It's a simple and fun token of our thanks to our brides & grooms for asking us to help them with their wedding. When they wake up the next morning, they can have something light to munch on. :)

I tasted one and it's super delicious. It's an old family recipe from my lola who passed it on to my cousin, she now makes the cookies for me.

Here's the cookie! Hope you like it!

Yoshi & Joy's sunset-themed wedding at Plantation Bay

2011-05-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

Yoshi and Joy arrived from Japan only two days before their wedding. All planning and preparations were done online. But, it was a joy to work with Joy (pun intended) because she was very organized and thorough. All information requested were presented in Powerpoint and excel files, which made it easier for both her and me.

Originally, the theme of the wedding was sunset. Joy wanted a sunset-inspired wedding. Her entourage gowns were rust-orange. Her centerpieces had touches of orange in it. As fate would have it, the judge was late because his hearing was extended. So, the afternoon wedding also got delayed and we started just as the sunset was starting to dip past the colonial houses in the resort.

Here is a picture of Joy doing her dramatic entrance at Plantation Bay. The guests loved it!

Joy loved the idea of having flowerballs for her aisle stands. After the ceremony was over, we tied it to the back of her gazebo and they made beautiful added decors.

What was originally a 3-layered cake became, in a flurry of last-minute brainstorming, a one-layered cake with enough cupcakes for everyone. Seahorses mate for life and that became a central design for the cake.

Due to time constraints, the invitations we made for Joy were smaller than what she originally approved. I felt badly about that minor mistake so we gave her complimentary ground fireworks for her first dance. I sincerely hope that made up for it! It certainly looks very good in the pictures.

Finally, Yoshi and Joy had a Trash the Dress post-nup photoshoot for Yoshi and Joy the next morning, to cap off their wedding.

The last time she was at my shop, before she left back for Japan, we hugged & Joy said, "Thanks, Jan. I enjoyed my wedding." Praise God for another beautiful wedding!

For more pictures, please check out: my Facebook page and my Multiply photos.

Hank & Jhonilyn's rainbow wedding at Plantation Bay - March 26 2011

2011-04-12T22:55:00.000-07:00

Jhonilyn's sister, Analou, asked us to help plan the former's wedding since she was based in the US. It was going to be a quite and intimate wedding for family & close friends at the Peninsula beach of Plantation Bay.

When Jhonilyn's wedding day came, it started raining very early in the morning. But, Jhonilyn was still all smiles. When I discussed my concerns about the weather with her and her family, she said cheerily, "It's okay. It's up to you, Jan. We trust you." Of course, that just put more pressure on my shoulders.

I checked the back-up venue but it seemed too dismal for a beach wedding. I had them do a skeleton set-up there. But, I directed all plans to proceed at the Peninsula beach. The staff at Plantation Bay were very supportive, but I knew they had their misgivings and doubts. As did I.

Meanwhile, Hank and Jhonilyn, who were both relaxed and all-smiles, toured around Plantation Bay with the photo-video team and got some spectacular shots. My favourites were of them on the tartanilla, (horse-drawn carriage).

Though I usually go with the team to the church, this time around I saw them off and elected to stay at Plantation Bay, in case there were any last minute changes.

Here are some pictures of their beautiful church setup.

I kept watching the skies that day. At about 330pm, our worst fears came to fruition and it started to drizzle. The staff covered the tables so it would not get wet. I almost gave the go signal to pull back. Luckily, I got an impromptu lesson from their "weather man", their F&B manager. He said, "Look there. Those dark clouds are bringing the rain but they are moving fast. Past those clouds, lower towards the horizon, you see clear skies. Those skies will be here at about 5pm and you'll have good weather until about 7PM."

Everyone wanted us to pull back, but I had a nagging feeling that Mr. weather-man was right. By God's grace, he was! The skies broke clear at about 5PM, just as they arrived back from the hotel.

We started the reception ahead of schedule to make the most of the good weather while we had it. When it was time for pictorials, the team posed with our lovely couple. As we approached their table at the stage, Jonilyn pulled me into a hug and said, "It's so beautiful, Jan. Wala gyud mi nagmahay na we got you." (We didn't regret that we got you.)

She also kept saying, "Jan, we love Tita Marilou!" who is a phenomenon in her own right. Sometimes, I get too caught up in the details & processes involved in the wedding, while she tends to provide the mother touch needed to make the bride & groom feel special. Salve, my makeup artist, tells me that Jhonilyn mentioned worriedly that the door to their room was not locked so Tita Marilou did an immediate about-face & rushed to lock the door, much to Jhonilyn's relief & delight.

Here's a picture of the handsome groom with Tita Marilou.

Praise God for the lovely weather that lasted the whole night! Thanks to Hank & Jhonilyn for allowing us to be a part of their rainbow-themed wedding.

Maynard & Charisse's magical wedding at Radisson Blu

2011-03-05T22:20:00.000-08:00

When Charisse first shared with me her vision for her wedding, I was immediately hooked. She wanted to veer away from the usual pastels and chose blue & purple instead. I was a bit worried that the mood would be a little too dark, because we would be using two dark colours. But, it turned out really great!

We used crystals, tall trees and mood lights to transform the place into something truly magical. I personally oversaw the mood lights, which were placed at the stage and at the foot of 4 crystal trees. I insisted they change from blue to white to purple, and at a slow barely discernible rate, so that the effect was very subtle. And truly magical!

The gowns were tricky because we had to be careful matching two dark colours. I personally went and chose the cloth for her. I chose galaxy chiffon which is soft cloth with lots of twinkling on it just like silver dust, magical! And two-toned taffeta, which is hard-stiff cloth that changes colours depending on how the light hits the cloth.

Maynard was a refreshing change from my usual grooms. He was very hands-on and had a lot of helpful insights. Based on his suggestion, we made some last-minute alterations to the gowns which made them look even better. He also chose the vases and style of the flowers for the church aisle stands. He is the only groom I've ever met who gave input on flowers and gowns. (And I can't count the number of brides who come to me crying because they feel their grooms don't care about the wedding details.) Kudos, Maynard, may your tribe increase!

Charisse was also great to work with. She was one of the coolest brides I have ever worked with. I never saw her stress about her wedding. Not once.

There were so many blessings for their weddings. The last surprise turned out to be the best of all. Initially, we all wanted the Radisson Blu Santa Maria ballroom but, due to some constraints, we settled on the Nina ballrooms instead. Then, three weeks before the wedding, they gave us a special rate and we were able to move to the Radisson Blu Santa Maria ballroom after all. We were all so excited!

Their wedding day and also the preparations leading to it was very special to me, because although my brides know about Jed through my facebook posts, I seldom bring him to work. I still prefer to be professional about work. But, with Cha, I didn't have that limitation at all, because she was a close friend of the family.

Jed went with me when I made the floor layout. He was also at the food tasting and had very helpful feedback: "Mommy, why is there no cheese on their spaghetti?" which delighted Maynard very much.

Jed was also a guest at her wedding. He enjoyed the kiddie table very much and guided the younger kids at it. He was mommy's special helper, because I told him to watch the kids so they don't play at the stage while the reception was going on. He did great.

Here are the photos. You can see how handsome Maynard is and how lovely Charisse is! And how magical we made the place!

For the Maynard & Charisse's wedding, we also brought in special mood lighting effect that transformed the venue. Here's a video below to show you the lovely lighting. Note the changing lights on the crystals trees, from deep blue to plush purple.

More photos from Cha & Maynard's wedding here.

Lief & Liberty's destination wedding at Bohol - Feb 26 2011

2011-03-01T15:20:00.001-08:00

I met Liberty in Bohol several months ago. She is an attorney working in Manila and wanted a destination wedding. We toured around Bohol's local resorts and finally decided on Bohol Beach Club, which was both our first choice. Yey!

Leif is a Swedish chef. He was very reserved and modest, but had a great sense of humor once I got to know him. I remember telling him that in the Philippines, we also have a groom's pictorials where we take pictures of his personal items like the belt. His self-effacing answer: "Why would you want to take a picture of my belt? It's old and cracked."

Last Saturday was the culmination of months of planning and preparation. Libby, as her friends call her, was a joy to work with. She was very organized and planned, had very realistic expectations and knew exactly what she wanted and did not want.

Theirs was a destination wedding with Filipino & Swedish friends and family flying all the way from Manila to Bohol Beach Club for the celebration as well as some R&R. :)

Her verdict: "It was even better than expected."

My favourite moment was when Leif and Liberty walked into the reception area of Bohol Beach Club. I heard Leif state quietly to Liberty, "They're playing the songs I chose. It makes me so happy." I was very glad that our attention to detail paid off and added to their happiness on their wedding day.

Another stand-out moment was when Liberty walked into her room at the resort before the reception started, for a little R&R (rest and retouch). She was feeling out-of-sorts and a little hungry as she had only had brunch but no lunch yet. I gave her the Debuts & I Do's giant cookie, with my logo on it, for her to munch on while she relaxed. But, she said, "It's too pretty to eat." Aaaw!

The giant cookie is c/o Blissful Nibbles. I'll post a pic from my next wedding. We were all too excited this time around and forgot to take a picture.

So, congrats to Leif and Liberty for being the first to try our giant Debuts & I Do's cookie! But, more importantly, congratulations for a wonderful destination beach wedding at Bohol Beach Club!!!

P.S. Our guest photographer, Russel Capatoy , took this fun candid shot of them, all smiles, with me at the background. :)

For more photos of Lief & liberty's wedding, please see here.

Testimonials and Feedback

2010-10-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

Here are some testimonials and feedbacks from my 2009 and 2010 weddings.
More testimonials, including video testimonials, at our sister website: www.mycebuboholweddings.com

Craig and Menchie's video testimonial:

The sound was not captured well. Here's a transcript of the conversation during breakfast the morning-after:

Me: How did you find the wedding?
Craig: Fantastic! It went so smoothly! Unbelievable!
We are both very very happy with our wedding. The location... well-organized from start to finish, the whole program just ran like clockwork. Fantastic! Thank you very much.
Menchie: It was really our dream wedding.

(Note: We put together Craig and Menchie's wedding in 3 weeks. An unbelievable feat, there were times when we doubted we could do it. But Menchie had a lot of faith in us. In the end, everything came together smoothly! )

RJ and Lovelyn's facebook testimonial:

Ford and Liz's facebook testimonial:

Melvin and Orfelle's Facebook testimonial:
Jay and Janet's Facebook testimonial:
Brix and Irene:

Jed and Dean:

Santi and Liezl:

Modern Citylights Wedding Package At Cafe Margarita, Robinland Penthouse

2010-06-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

It’s your wedding day! Walk into a glass-enclosed penthouse with a fabulous view of the mountains on the left side, and the sea at the right side. Walk past the glass into the veranda and feel the seabreeze on your cheek, like a soft caressing wind.

All around you, the twinkling lights surround you for a magical, star-filled affair. It’s a breath-taking unforgettable night for you, your family and friends as you spend the night in a fairy-tale setting that you have dreamt of since you were a child.

With modern high-backed chairs, the gorgeous view of the city in three sides, a plush living room to welcome your guests while waiting for the main doors to open, the Robinland Penthouse is the perfect place for an elegant yet modern fairytale wedding.

Hassle-free, ready-to-go wedding packages

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Garden-Citylights-Beverly-View.php

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You will also enjoy the following:
· FREE FIREWORKS or SKY LANTERNS to kick-off your reception!
· A super-fun wedding reception with our FREE EMCEE and FREE MOVIE PASSES for game prizes.
· Your own cake topper look-alike with our FREE UPGRADE TO 3 LAYERED FONDANT CAKE, for marshmallow frosting cakes
· Be a glamour model for one day with our FREE TRIAL HAIR AND MAKEUP
· A romantic glow for your dinner tables with FREE USE OF ROMANTIC GLASS LANTERN CENTERPIECES
· Walk down the church aisle to your favourite song with our CHURCH CHOIR
· FREE WEDDING WEBSITE, free access to over 1000 pictures for inspiration and brainstorming
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But, wait, it gets better and better.

All packages include:
FREE 14 Additional Church Aisle Stands (Total of 32 Stands) with FREE Use of JAPANESE LANTERNS, CRYSTALS or ROMANTIC ENGLISH LANTERNS
FREE Transfer of Flowers from Church to Reception
FREE Makeup for 3-4 FLOWERGIRLS
FREE BUBBLE MACHINE And CONFETTI CANNONS FOR FIRST DANCE
ADDED VALUE and COST SAVINGS of over P10,000

Plus, for premium packages, we offer
CELEBRITY AIRBRUSH MAKEUP for the BRIDE
Get the same flawless style and technique that your favorite celebrities use for magazine covers and movie makeup
FREE AVP Slideshow Presentation
You get more than P20,000 in added value and savings.
More value for your money's worth!

Plus, one last thing… Debuts and I Do’s helps you make it a special night for your little guests, too.
All packages contain:
a Complimentary Kid’s Corner with FUN and ENTERTAINMENT for your little guests
Including but not limited to bubbles, clay dough, crayons, coloring books and balloons.
ADDED VALUE: PRICELESS

For an initial reservation fee of only P10,000, reserve your wedding date and avail of your dream city-lights wedding!!!

So, what are you waiting for?
Hurry and Reserve your wedding date NOW! …(before someone else does!)
Read here for Frequently Asked Questions on How to Begin.

More pictures:
Brix and Irene's Secret Garden wedding at Robinland Penthouse, Cafe margarita
Marevie and Ian's modern prenuptial photo session, also at Robinland penthouse, Cafe Margarita

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Seaview-Citylights-Cafe-Margarita-Robinland-Penthouse.php

*Terms and conditions apply. Your privacy is important to us.

Destination Weddings (Bohol, Tagaytay, Intramuros)

2010-06-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

The Philippines has over 7000 islands and as many beautiful places and exotic locations for weddings.

Although we focus mainly in Cebu and Bohol, we also cater to weddings in other locations. To date, we have handled weddings in Metro Manila, Tagaytay, Iloilo and other beautiful locations.

Read here for Bohol beach wedding packages

For hassle-free wedding packages in other locations, please email us at debuts.and.i.dos.events@gmail.com

Hassle-free Marriage License

2009-11-17T19:17:00.000-08:00

Legal Requirements To Procure Your Marriage License in the Philippines

Basic requirements
1. Birth Certificates from NSO - 1 original and 2 xerox copies
2. Certificate of No Marriage, also from NSO. - 1 original and 1 xerox copy
3. Valid IDs - 1 original and 2 xerox copies
4. Community tax certificate/ Cedula w/ signature - 1 original and 2 xerox copies
5. Parental consent (if aged 18 to 21) or parental advice (if aged 22 to 25)
6. Certificate of Attendance in a seminar by the City Health Office
7. Personal appearance at the Civil registrar's office

Additional Requirements:

For Widow/ Widower
1. Death certificate, issued by Local Civil Registrar's Office/ National Statistics Office of deceased husband/ wife - 1 original and 2 xerox copies

For Annulled Marriage
1. Certificate of Finality of Annulment, issued by court - 1 original and 2 xerox copies
2. Certificate of Registration, from Local Civil Registrar's Office - - 1 original and 1 xerox copy

For a Foreigner Applicant
1. Passport ID - 2 xerox copies
2. Date of Arrival (Latest) from the Passport - 2 xerox copies
3. Legal Capacity, issued by their diplomatic official in the Philippines - 1 original and 3 xerox copies

For Naturalized Citizen
1. Naturalization Papers - 1 original and 2 xerox copies

NOTES:
1. Appearance of both applicants is necessary in applying for marriage license.
2. Marriage license will be released after 10-days posting period
3. At least one of the applicants is a resident of Cebu City
4. Address in Cedula, Brgy certificat and certificate of attendance must be consistent
5. The marriage license is provided 2 weeks after all requirements are complied with, and is valid for 120 days.

If you are unable to comply with requirements, please let us know and we may be able to help you.

Check out our main website: www.mycebuboholweddings.com for testimonials and pictures.

Bohol Beach Wedding Packages

2009-11-17T13:09:00.000-08:00

The sound of crashing waves is your background music.

The pink and orange hues of sunset clouds hover above you as your wedding reception starts.

The slight breeze cools your beaming face and your sun-kissed cheeks.

It is your wedding day at the beach! Throw your cares away and enjoy the most beautiful day in your life

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Bohol-Destination-Wedding.php

Bohol Beach Club:

Bohol Diver's Resort:

We recommend this historic church, a short 15 minute drive away from your beach wedding venue:

Alternative Venue under this historic, awe-inspiring tree, with capiz lamps. It has a fantastic view of the beach, too:

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You will also enjoy the following:
· FREE FIREWORKS to kick-off your reception!
· A super-fun wedding reception with our FREE EMCEE and FREE MOVIE PASSES for game prizes.
· Your own cake topper look-alike with our FREE UPGRADE TO 3 LAYERED FONDANT CAKE, for marshmallow frosting cakes
· Be a glamour model for one day with our FREE TRIAL HAIR AND MAKEUP
· A romantic glow for your dinner tables with FREE USE OF ROMANTIC GLASS LANTERN CENTERPIECES
· Walk down the church aisle to your favourite song with our CHURCH CHOIR
· FREE WEDDING WEBSITE, free access to over 1000 pictures for inspiration and brainstorming
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But, wait, it gets better and better.

All packages include:
FREE 14 Additional Church Aisle Stands (Total of 32 Stands) with FREE Use of JAPANESE LANTERNS, CRYSTALS or ROMANTIC ENGLISH LANTERNS
FREE Transfer of Flowers from Church to Reception
FREE Makeup for 3-4 FLOWERGIRLS
FREE BUBBLE MACHINE And CONFETTI CANNONS FOR FIRST DANCE
ADDED VALUE and COST SAVINGS of over P10,000

Plus, for premium packages, we offer
CELEBRITY AIRBRUSH MAKEUP for the BRIDE
Get the same flawless style and technique that your favorite celebrities use for magazine covers and movie makeup
FREE AVP Slideshow Presentation
You get more than P20,000 in added value and savings.
More value for your money's worth!

Plus, one last thing… Debuts and I Do’s helps you make it a special night for your little guests, too.
All packages contain:
a Complimentary Kid’s Corner with FUN and ENTERTAINMENT for your little guests
Including but not limited to bubbles, clay dough, crayons, coloring books and balloons.
ADDED VALUE: PRICELESS

For an initial reservation fee of only P10,000, reserve your wedding date and avail of your dream wedding!!!

What are you waiting for? RESERVE NOW! (before someone else gets your date!)

Check out our main website: www.mycebuboholweddings.com for testimonials and pictures.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Bohol-Destination-Wedding.php

*Terms and conditions apply. Your privacy is important to us.

Cebu Beach Wedding Packages

2009-11-17T13:02:00.001-08:00

Spend your special day at the beach, with the wind caressing your cheek, and the sound of waves bringing a sense of peace and solemnity to your special day.

It's your special wedding day at the beach. Getaway from the hustle and bustle of a busy career life, and spend the day with family, friends and your special love -- the one you have committed to love for the rest of your life.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Beach-Wedding-Vistamar.php

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You will also enjoy the following:
· FREE FIREWORKS to kick-off your reception!
· A super-fun wedding reception with our FREE EMCEE and FREE MOVIE PASSES for game prizes.
· Your own cake topper look-alike with our FREE UPGRADE TO 3 LAYERED FONDANT CAKE, for marshmallow frosting cakes
· Be a glamour model for one day with our FREE TRIAL HAIR AND MAKEUP
· A romantic glow for your dinner tables with FREE USE OF ROMANTIC GLASS LANTERN CENTERPIECES
· Walk down the church aisle to your favourite song with our CHURCH CHOIR
· FREE WEDDING WEBSITE, free access to over 1000 pictures for inspiration and brainstorming
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But, wait, it gets better and better.

All packages include:
FREE 14 Additional Church Aisle Stands (Total of 32 Stands) with FREE Use of JAPANESE LANTERNS, CRYSTALS or ROMANTIC ENGLISH LANTERNS
FREE Transfer of Flowers from Church to Reception
FREE Makeup for 3-4 FLOWERGIRLS
FREE BUBBLE MACHINE And CONFETTI CANNONS FOR FIRST DANCE
ADDED VALUE and COST SAVINGS of over P10,000

Plus, for premium packages, we offer
CELEBRITY AIRBRUSH MAKEUP for the BRIDE
Get the same flawless style and technique that your favorite celebrities use for magazine covers and movie makeup
FREE AVP Slideshow Presentation
You get more than P20,000 in added value and savings.
More value for your money's worth!

Plus, one last thing… Debuts and I Do’s helps you make it a special night for your little guests, too.
All packages contain:
a Complimentary Kid’s Corner with FUN and ENTERTAINMENT for your little guests
Including but not limited to bubbles, clay dough, crayons, coloring books and balloons.
ADDED VALUE: PRICELESS

What are you waiting for? RESERVE NOW! (before someone else gets your date!)

For an initial reservation fee of only P10,000, reserve your wedding date and avail of your dream garden city-view wedding!!!

Click here to see pictures of our weddings at Vistamar:
Marvin and Christine's wedding at Vistamar
Craig and Menchie's wedding at Vistamar
Craig and Menchie's Trash the Dress post-wedding photo shoot
Junila and Jordan's Beach Wedding at Vistamar

Frequently asked question: How much if I want to have 100 guests, instead of 60 guests only?

Answer: For 100 guests including drinks, additional centerpieces and 80 invitations, the basic package is P149,995. The premium package is P199,995.

Like this package but want to choose a different venue within Cebu City? Or take some items out? See our Other Packages.

Check out our main website: www.mycebuboholweddings.com for testimonials and pictures.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Beach-Wedding-Vistamar.php

*Terms and conditions apply. Your privacy is important to us.

20 Questions to Ask Before You Get Married

2009-11-08T06:20:00.000-08:00

I found this interesting article in Oprah.com.

I'm not a counselor so I dont know if this works. Looks interesting though. So, while the wedding planner is off doing the nitty-gritty work, you can both enjoy a quiet night together and go through some of these questions. =)

HOME
Question 1: What percentage of our income are we prepared to spend to purchase and maintain our home on a monthly or annual basis?
Question 2: Who is responsible for keeping our house and yard cared for and organized? Are we different in our needs for cleanliness and organization? Is one or both of us neat? Messy? A pack rat? An organizational wizard?

MONEY
Question 3: HOw much money do we earn together? Now? In one year? In five years? Ten? Who is responsible for which portion? Now? In one year? In five years? Ten?
Question 4: What is our ultimate financial goal regarding annual income, and when do we anticipate achieving it? By what means, and through what efforts?
Question 5: What are our categories of expense (rent, clothing, insurance, travel)? How much do we spend monthly, annually, in each category? How much do we want to be able to spend?

WORK
Question 6: How much time will each of us spend at work, and during what hours? Do we begin work early? Will we prefer to work into the evening?
Question 7: If one of us doesn't want to work, under what circumstances, if any, would that be okay?
Question 8: How ambitious are you? Are we comfortable with the other's level of ambition?

SEX
Question 9: Am I comfortable giving and receiving love sexually? In sex, does my partner feel my love for him or her?
Question 10: Are we satisfied with the frequency of our lovemaking? How do we cope when our desire levels are unmatched? A little? A lot? For a night? A week? A month? A year? More?

HEALTH AND FOOD
Question 11: Do we eat meals together? Which ones? Who is responsible for the food shopping? Who prepares the meals? Who cleans up afterward?
Question 12: Is each of us happy with the other's approach to health? Does one have habits or tendencies that concern the other (e.g., smoking, excessive dieting, poor diet)?

FAMILY
Question 13: What place does the other's family play in our family life? How often do we visit or socialize together? If we have out-of-town relatives, will we ask them to visit us for extended periods? How often?
Question 14: If we have children, what kind of relationship do we hope our parents will have with their grandchildren? How much time will they spend together?

CHILDREN
Question 15: Will we have children? If so, when? How many? How important is having children to each of us?
Question 16: How will having a child change the way we live now? Will we want to take time off from work, or work a reduced schedule? For how long? Will we need to rethink who is responsible for housekeeping?

COMMUNITY AND FRIENDS
Question 17: Are we satisfied with the quality and quantity of friends we currently have? Would we like to be more involved socially? Are we overwhelmed socially and need to cut back on such commitments?
Question 18: What are my partner's needs for cultivating or maintaining friendships outside our relationship? Is it easy for me to support those needs, or do they bother me in any way?

SPIRITUAL LIFE
Question 19: Do we share a religion? Do we belong to a church, synagogue, mosque or temple? More than one? If not, would our relationship benefit from such an affiliation?
Question 20: Does one of us have an individual spiritual practice? Is the practice and the time devoted to it acceptable to the other? Does each partner understand and respect the other's choices?

Garden City-lights Wedding Packages

2009-09-06T23:03:00.001-07:00

It’s your wedding day! Take a 5 minute drive along a gently curved road in an exclusive subdivision. Enjoy the short drive by house-watching famous and grand houses. Stop by for pictures at the Taoist temple, one of Cebu’s famous (and free!) tourist attractions.

Take one final turn and, suddenly, you find yourself inside a secret garden hideaway , mesmerized by the view of the sea and the twinkling city lights.

It’s a breath-taking unforgettable night for you, your family and friends as you spend the night in a fairy-tale setting that you have dreamt of since you were a child.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Garden-Citylights-Beverly-View.php

(See more pictures of Jay and Janet's Garden Citylights Wedding here... )

Our packages offer best value for your hard-earned money. Our city-view garden venue is only 5 minutes away from the city. And we provide a van to safely bring your guests to a main intersection in Gorordo. At your request, we can call in trusted taxi drivers to take your guests safely all the way to their homes.

Choose from our two garden city-view wedding packages below, guaranteed to give you best value for your hard-earned money.

Hassle-free, ready-to-go wedding packages

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Garden-Citylights-Beverly-View.php

More and more brides are coming to us to avail of this package without gowns as they have their own designer of choice. We have listened and taken the gowns out of the basic package. But, if you need us to help you with your gowns, just add P4000 only for rental gowns for bride, maid of honor, 4 bridesmaids, 3 flowergirls, with rental barongs for the groom, best man, 4 groomsmen, 3 bearers. Other options are also available: such as first user or made-to-order.

We offer best value for your hard-earned money. We are so confident of this that we have even done the research for you. Compare our packages to other stress-free packages being offered, and see for yourself.

(See more pictures of Jay and Janet's Garden Citylights Wedding here. )

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You will also enjoy the following:
· FREE BOHOL HONEYMOON (2 roundtrip tickets and an overnight stay at a beachside aircon room) to kick-off your happily-ever-after!
· A super-fun wedding reception with our FREE EMCEE and FREE MOVIE PASSES for game prizes.
· Your own cake topper look-alike with our FREE UPGRADE TO 3 LAYERED FONDANT CAKE, for marshmallow frosting cakes
· Be a glamour model for one day with our FREE TRIAL HAIR AND MAKEUP
· A romantic glow for your dinner tables with FREE USE OF ROMANTIC GLASS LANTERN CENTERPIECES
· Walk down the church aisle to your favourite song with our CHURCH CHOIR
· FREE WEDDING WEBSITE, free access to over 1000 pictures for inspiration and brainstorming
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

But, wait, it gets better and better.

All packages include:
FREE 14 Additional Church Aisle Stands (Total of 32 Stands) with FREE Use of JAPANESE LANTERNS, CRYSTALS or ROMANTIC ENGLISH LANTERNS
FREE Transfer of Flowers from Church to Reception
FREE Makeup for 3-4 FLOWERGIRLS
FREE BUBBLE MACHINE And CONFETTI CANNONS FOR FIRST DANCE
ADDED VALUE and COST SAVINGS of over P10,000

Plus, for premium packages, we offer
CELEBRITY AIRBRUSH MAKEUP for the BRIDE
Get the same flawless style and technique that your favorite celebrities use for magazine covers and movie makeup
FREE AVP Slideshow Presentation
You get more than P20,000 in added value and savings.
More value for your money's worth!

Plus, one last thing… Debuts and I Do’s helps you make it a special night for your little guests, too.
All packages contain:
a Complimentary Kid’s Corner with FUN and ENTERTAINMENT for your little guests
Including but not limited to bubbles, clay dough, crayons, coloring books and balloons.
ADDED VALUE: PRICELESS

For an initial reservation fee of only P10,000, reserve your wedding date and avail of your dream garden city-view wedding!!!

What are you waiting for? RESERVE NOW! (before someone else gets your date!)

View photos of our Garden City-lights Weddings:
Jay and Janet's wedding at Beverly View Events Pavilion
Arthur and Shella's wedding at Beverly View Events Pavilion
Harry and Edcel's wedding at Beverly View Events Pavilion
Ford and Liz's wedding at Beverly View Events Pavilion

IMPORTANT REMINDER: As of March 2011, this page is no longer updated. Please go to: http://www.mycebuboholweddings.com/Garden-Citylights-Beverly-View.php

*Terms and conditions apply. Your privacy is important to us.

How To Place the Rings

2009-08-19T08:09:00.000-07:00

Do not hide the ring. Hold it firmly only with your thumb and fore or middle finger. Keep your other fingers away so they do not obstruct the camera lenses from the ring.
* All pictures from Debuts and I Do's weddings

Correct:

Wrong:
Correct:

Wrong:

Back to How to Get the Best Wedding Day Pictures

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

Sequencing of the Traditional Mano to Parents

2009-08-19T07:54:00.000-07:00

Sequencing of the Traditional Mano to Parents
By January Mae Tan
Wedding Planner - Cebu, Bohol, Manila

1. Bride and Groom approach the parents. Bride makes mano to the parent in front of her. Groom makes mano or handshakes the parent in front of him.

2. Bride reaches out to the parent diagonally across her to make mano.

3. Groom reaches out to to make mano or shake the hand of the parent diagonally across from him.

Back to How to Get the Best Wedding Day Pictures

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

Frequently Asked Questions

2009-08-19T05:27:00.001-07:00

How to Begin

Step 1: Choose your package.
Step 2: Note which items you want to remove and which items you want to add from the upgrades. Please note however that the free gifts will vary, if you opt to remove some items from our package.
Step 3: Email your choices in step 1 and 2 to debuts.and.i.dos.events@gmail.com for your customized proposal.
Step 4: Wait 3-5 business days for your proposal. Check to see if you like it. If not, repeat steps 2 and 3.
Step 5: If you like the proposal, please make a downpayment.
Step 6: We will email the AR and Agreement form. Please sign, scan and email back to us within 3-5 business days.
Step 7: We will email you our Initial Consultation sheet. Please take your time and answer so we can get to know you better.

The first three sets of customized proposals are free. After the third customized proposal, it usually means you are already confident in getting us as your planner but are just negotiating the total package price. We need to maximize our time for the brides who really need our help; so we kindly request that you deposit the P10T reservation fee before we make the 4th proposal.

If you wish to avail of our special offers (such as free fireworks), just skip right to Step 5 and make a downpayment. We will reserve your wedding date and your freebie, then you can take the time to finalize your wedding package.

Q: Is there out of town charge for D&ID in Bohol?
A: No out of town charges for Cebu, Bohol and Metro Manila.

Q: We like you and want to avail of your limited time special offers. How do we begin? What are your terms of payment?

a. P10,000 - to reserve your wedding date and to reserve your freebie
b. The remaining 50% downpayment within fifteen business days
c. 50% balance one week before the wedding, if cash; two weeks, if cheque.

For example:
stress-free package that totals P100,000 for a wedding on June 1 2009
a. Pay P10,000 on January 1, 2009
b. Pay P40,000 on or before January 22, 2009
c. Pay P50,000 on or before May 25, 2009, if cash; on or before May 18, 2009, if cheque.

For yours and my safety, please deposit amounts greater than P50,000 directly to:
BPI account name: January Mae Tan
BPI account number: 0019120309
and text me at 0922.8526.826 or email me at debuts.and.i.dos.events@gmail.com to confirm. Confirmation is usually done after 24 hours of the nearest banking day.

Q: Who are your suppliers?
A: In the past, we have had some brides ask us for all our suppliers then recreate our package without us. For our protection, we dont provide the names of our suppliers until after the reservation fee or downpayment is provided. However, you may check out our Official Website for our portfolio, and sample pictures.

My hair and makeup artist has been working with me for over 7 years, and I have always had positive feedback from him, he does great work. My singing emcee does stand-up comedy in Makati comedy clubs and has shared the stage with Pooh and Pokwang. My florist is regularly subcontracted by Preston Bailey to assist in wedding decors in Dubai. My baker, photographers and videographers are just as talented. My dance instructor has 17 years experience in the industry.

That is a brief background of the crew that I count on to help me make your wedding unforgettable. They are exceptional people --- kind-hearted, talented and not pricey at all. Quite understandably, their calendars (and mine) get filled pretty quickly these days.

Q: Can you download music for us to play on the wedding day?
A: No, we support copyright rules. Please provide a CD with all your songs to play.

Q: Why do your packages not include gowns?
A: Because brides have very different needs and desires for the bridal and entourage gown. To simplify matters, we took it out of the package and give the option for you to avail of the gowns at the following prices:
a. Rental entourage gowns with partner barongs (1 maid of honor, 4 bridesmaids, 4 flowergirls) - P4000
b. Rental bride - P2500
c. First user entourage gowns - P10,000
d. First user bride - P8000
e. Made to Order bride - P18,000 minimum, depending on design
f. Made to Order entourage - depends on the design

Q: May I ask for the cost breakdown of your packages?
A: Our packages are very competitive. We give the best value for your money. For our protection, we dont provide the breakdown of any package, before during or after the wedding.

Q: Can we remove some items from the stress-free package?
A: Yes. There is no guarantee that it will come out cheaper or better. The package is highly dependent on "the whole being greater than its parts". For example, I can only guarantee decorated ceiling if your venue is in our garden city-lights pavilion.

Q: Are there any hidden charges in your packages?
A: Kindly remember to budget for the meals of your supplier-partners. This is not included in the package but is a necessity for the wedding day. Also, our packages do not cover costs for corkage, sounds or electricity. They do not cover any church or legal fees.

Email us at debuts.and.i.dos.events@gmail.com for other questions or concerns.

Honor Your Parents on Your Wedding Day

2009-08-19T04:58:00.000-07:00

On your wedding day, take the time to honor your parents in front of family and friends. After all, they raised you and worked hard to provide for you. It is as much their day as it is yours.

Here are some simple but sweet ideas:

1. Give them a frame with your picture and a sincere message to hang on their wall. Better yet, try to find a copy of their old wedding picture and place it in the frame, then sometime after your wedding, find the time to switch your original picture to a picture of you both on your wedding day.

2. Laarni and Ron decided to get married on the same day that Ron's parents did many years ago. They surprised his parents with their own cake and invited them to re-enact their wedding day, including the wedding kiss. The guests were blown away by this simple yet provocatively thoughtful gesture.

Ron's mom and dad are embarassed. They warm up with a reenactment of their wedding dance Reenactment of their Slicing of the CakeReenactment of their Wine ToastingParents Kissed (Who's shy now?) The Male Ninongs Went Wild with Glee

The Lady Ninangs are secretly envious
Mom and Dad Capped it Off With One Final Kiss

O, di ba? Let's pray that all couples are still that sweet even after 30 years of marriage. =)

Special Offer Limited Time Only

2009-08-19T04:35:00.001-07:00

Free Bohol Honeymoon for ALL weddings reserved from November 13 to 20.

Not only that! If you book your wedding at our Kasalang Pilipino booth from November 13 - 15, we will also give you a free Bohol countryside tour .

*****************************
Eleven Things to Do on Your FREE Bohol Honeymoon
1. Visit Chocolate Hills.
2. Take pictures with a tarsier.
3. Go whale & dolphin watching at Pamilacan.
4. Feed the fish while they nibble your feet at the Fish Sanctuary.
5. Swim in the underground river at Hinagdanan Falls.
6. Ziplining in Danao!
7. Take a (FREE!) countryside tour to the oldest church in the Philippines
8. See a live bee colony at the Bee Farm.
9. Eat a fresh flower salad.
10. French kiss while the sun sets on your glowing faces.
11. Collect seashells as souvenirs for your 50th wedding anniversary. **************************************************

This is a test and may never be offered again. This offer is only available from November 13 - 20 or until the alloted number of Bohol honeymoons is gone, whichever comes first. So, I urge you to act quickly and to drop by our booth at Kasalang Pilipino, beside the elevator going up at the Ayala Activity Center. Reserve your wedding date for only P10,000.

On the Day Coordination

2009-08-19T04:34:00.001-07:00

You've booked all your suppliers. Or you have wonderful friends who have decided to shoulder your wedding expenses or wedding services.

But there's still a myriad of details that go into having the perfect wedding experience.

For example, who will call to make sure the lechon has arrived while pictorials are taking place? Who will call out the order of pictorials at the church? Who will sequence the sponsors and entourage?

Overwhelmed by the all the details that go into making your wedding day a successful night you will remember for years to come?!

Save yourself the hassle of doing all 101 tasks in the On the Day Coordination tasklist. Turn them over to an experienced wedding planner and enjoy the day with a big smile.

Avail of our On the Day Coordination Package!

We take care of everything for you.

3 Coordinators
1 Music Coordinator

For only P18,000

We will even throw in:
Free Reception Emcee (who can sing and do stand-up comedy!)
Free Bubble Machine
Free Confetti Cannons

Wait, there's more?!

You also get your own free wedding website.
Plus access to literally thousands of pictures for cakes, gowns, decors, invitations and more. My brides have gotten great ideas for their weddings from this treasure chest.

Click here to find out what our happy brides and grooms have to say.

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

Not a Bride? Get free movie passes!

2009-08-19T04:28:00.000-07:00

If you wandered onto our site and like what you see, but are not yet getting married, today's your lucky day!

All you have to do is refer us to your friend, family, officemate, churchmate, neighbour, neighbourhood manicurista, masahista, friend of a friend, family of a family (err?!)... Well, you get the point.

Send an email with their email address and copy my email address, too. (debuts.and.i.dos.events@gmail.com)

If they decide to have us help them with their wedding, you get not one, not even two or three, but EIGHT Free Movie Passes at the Ayala Cinema Center (for Cebu) or at the Island City Mall (for Bohol).

Dont know what to say? You can copy this template:

Hi (name),

I found a great wedding planner at www.mycebuboholweddingplanner.com and thought you should check out their site. They provide lots of helpful advice, a free website and free chocolate fountain.

I am sure they will help you have a great and unforgettable wedding (debut, anniversary, etc.)

Sincerely,

(your name)

Dont forget to copy me in. (debuts.and.i.dos.events@gmail.com) I will follow up on your email with a formal introduction and phone call. Dont feel guilty or shy because your friend gets a free initial consultation with me where I can answer her questions and give free tips and advice.

Remember, Zig Ziglar says, "The best way to get up in this world is to help as many people as possible."

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

Hire an Experienced Wedding Planner

2009-08-18T22:41:00.000-07:00

Why You Should Hire an Experienced Wedding Coordinator
(or The Best Time to Buy an Umbrella is Before the Rain Pours)

A wedding planner (in Cebu, Bohol or elsewhere) is like a fire extinguisher. You hope to heavens that everything goes as smoothly as planned. But in case of impending disaster, you thank your lucky stars that you chose the most reliable one you could find.

A wedding planner is also like an insurance policy. You may think that nothing will ever go wrong and that you don’t need it. When you have just been informed of a problem (often on the wedding day itself or the day before), it is often already too late to secure one.

Photographers and venue managers bleakly discuss their weddings without coordinators, like veteran soldiers sharing their war stories. In one wedding, the photographer was unable to capture good shots because he had to organize the church processional.

Here are several true-to-life scenarios my brides and I experienced. (Names withheld)

Scenario 1: You have a beach wedding for 100 guests at an island in Bohol. The day before the wedding, at the last possible minute, the resort people inform you that the man-made island will be submerged in water until 3pm. To make matters worse, there is only one boat to ferry the florists, cake, sound system, band’s equipment.
Now, before you frazzle out and go crazy, take a deep breath.
Remember… you hired a wedding planner. We discuss the problem and calmly take over. You dance the night away with your family and friends.
We firmly request for the resort to hire additional ferry and call all the suppliers to disseminate the final schedule. On the wedding day, we set up a chocolate fountain for the guests at the coast to buy more time to complete the set-up on the island. Disaster averted.

Scenario 2: You brought a laptop for your daughter’s debut and set it up for the AV presentation. But when we do a dry run, a system glitch mutes out the AVP.
We get to work immediately. One member of the team is dispatched to burn the AVP file onto a DVD, another member is sent to request a DVD player from the main office. However, the DVD player can’t play the AVP file because of the format.
No matter, we have a plan C. Someone else was simultaneously dispatched to look for the nearest internet café and rent a desktop computer. Problem solved just in the nick of time, as your guests start to flow in.

Scenario 3: You have a busy afternoon at work and need a break. So, you step out for a cup of coffee and call us for a quick discussion on the designs of your wedding gowns. We refer you to a website that is a treasure trove of ideas, designs and pictures. You end the call and get back to your busy office project, happily feeling that everything is under control and your wedding is going smoothly.

So, the next time you think that not hiring an event planner will help your savings, think again.

Who will make sure that the lechon and cake arrive on time? Who will text all the principal sponsors to ensure that they arrive on time? Who will arrange the church processional? Who will check that no one gate crashes or steals the wedding presents?
Remember, some things--- like quality, peace of mind, and a night of love shared with family and friends that you will always remember with joy--- are worth spending for.

See here for our hassle-free budget packages for debuts, garden weddings or beach weddings.

See here for our on the day coordination packages with special freebies, offered for a limited time only.

Unique and Personal Giveaway Ideas

2009-08-17T21:06:00.001-07:00

Unique and Personal Giveaway Ideas

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

How to Choose Entourage Gowns

2009-08-17T21:05:00.001-07:00

How to Choose Entourage Gowns

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

How to Get the Best Wedding Day Pictures

2009-08-17T21:02:00.001-07:00

How to Get the Best Wedding Day Pictures
By January Mae Tan
Wedding Planner - Cebu, Bohol, Manila

To get the best wedding day pictures, be mindful of physical blocking.

Chew and Say “Tuesday”

If your jaw aches after hours and hours of continuous smiles, then chew your cheeks to give them a silent massage.

One groom was not very comfortable smiling. So, the bride asked him to say “Tuesday” for all the pictures instead. Try it. It is almost impossible to say that word right without your mouth forming a wide grin.

Practice the Church Entrance with Both Sets of Parents

When the bride reaches the threshold of the altar, the groom takes her hand and they walk towards the parents for the traditional show of respect called “mano” or bowing to take the parents’ hand and bring it to the child’s forehead.

Practice this. Which parent will you make mano to? As the wedded couple approaches the parents, they will naturally ‘mano’ the parent in front of them. After that, they will cross to ‘mano’ the parent across them. Let the bride mano diagonally first while the groom waits. When the bride is done, then the groom takes over.

See photos of sample sequencing .

The Placing of the Rings

This is an old trick I learned from a photographer friend.

Place the rings on the first knuckle before you say your vows. Then, stare longingly into each other’s eyes without breaking eye contact to fumble and place the rings on your better half’s finger.

When you hold the ring on the first knuckle, only hold it with your thumb and middle finger, raise the other fingers up. Do not obscure the photographer’s shot of the rings. Make sure the ring is shown, do not hide the ring with your fingers.

See Right and Wrong ways to place the rings.

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

How to Create an Unforgettable Wedding Experience for Your Guests

2009-08-17T20:57:00.000-07:00

How to Create an Unforgettable Wedding Experience for Your Guests
By January Mae Tan
Wedding Planner - Cebu, Bohol, Manila

The key to creating an unforgettable experience for your wedding guests is: PARTICIPATION.

Set Expectations

Always set the expectations of everyone involved. This is an old trick that most call center agents can relate to.

One great way to do this is for the host, in his welcoming remarks, to remind everyone that the greatest gift they can give the couple is the gift of their presence. Ask the guests nicely to make a commitment to stay until after the affair is completed. Hold the microphone to them and wait for them to say “Yes” loudly.

Praise

Praise your guests continuously for their enthusiastic participation.

In one sticky situation, we had more guests than tables, despite the extra tables we already setup. Fortunately, I was the host for this wedding. While waiting for the waiters to set up extra tables, I praised everyone for showing up for the wedding to show their love for the newlyweds. I pointed out that this was a great problem to have because I had been to weddings where half the tables were empty. The guests left that wedding beaming with joy for the couple and pride in themselves.

Do this subtly and with discretion, so that it doesn’t become empty flattery. Remember, any human being’s greatest need is the need to feel important. So, praise the guests and motivate them to join.

Have Them Choose Their Giveaways

If you are giving out perfume bottles, have them choose what perfume to bring. If you are giving out minicakes, have a choice of three flavours and ask them to choose. Because they have a hand in what they bring home, they will treasure it more.

Make Your Programme Fun

Even the most formal affair has room in it for a game or two.

If you know in advance that your guests are the shy, reserved type, then ask the help of your more outgoing friends. Filipino culture dictates that we usually have to wait for someone else to take the first step. Tell your more outgoing friends that you have games in mind and that they need to help you out by joining in the games.

Don’t know what games to include? Steal a page from the local lunchtime game shows. Make your own version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”, “Hep, Hep, Hooray” or even “Pera or Bayong”.

Remember to always prepare a list of names to call out, in case there are no voluntary participants.

Tempt Them

Make the prizes juicy and tempting. Free movie passes, gift certificates to the spa or massage or even a cellphone are great ideas.

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

How to Personalize Your Wedding

2009-08-17T20:56:00.001-07:00

How to Personalize Your Wedding
By January Mae Tan
Wedding Planner - Cebu, Bohol, Manila

This is your wedding day, the day you have dreamed of since you were a child. Go ahead, let loose and show your guests the inner you. No more of these cookie-cutter weddings, personalize your wedding details to reflect your personality and taste.

Yes, the cake, invitations and gowns are personalized to the couple’s theme, but here are some other overlooked details that can be used to personalize your wedding even further.

Serve a Family Recipe

Are your family gatherings from Christmas to Thanksgiving incomplete without your mother’s cocido or lola’s paella? Honor them and serve it up for dinner or cocktails, if the reception venue will allow it.

For a groom getting married in his family-owned resort, I was asked to research on cocktail finger foods. I arrived for a meeting with the groom’s mother and aunt with a list of possible options. While waiting for the meeting to start, they served me their version of “clubhouse sandwich”.

I almost declined thinking it was the usual sandwich fare. But when the waiter set it down in front of us and I had a bite, I went crazy! After a few careful questions, I discovered it was the mother’s very own recipe. I told them to throw out the list and serve this instead. The mother preened with obvious delight.

Favourite Drinks for Your Toast

After the cake slicing comes the wine toasting, but who says it has to be only wine or champagne?

Toast to your future with your favorite Starbucks drinks. You like apple fruit tea and he likes Four Seasons, don’t forget the pink (or whatever your motif is) umbrellas.

Have the host point it out to your guests and let them enjoy the little secret as well. They will be tickled pink and will secretly wish they had thought to do the same thing for their wedding.

Your Own Song List

The church ceremony is solemn and must be done according to strict guidelines. However, the couple is free to let loose during the reception.

A great way to show your personality is to choose the music that will be played as your entourage and you enter the Reception.

One groom insisted the groomsmen enter to the naughty tune of “Jumbo Hotdog”. A couple enter to techno sounds of Usher. For our Twilight-inspired debut, we began by playing the famous baseball scene and pausing it immediately after a main character said, “It’s time”. The doors then opened to reveal the debutante who entered to the song of “Super Massive Black Hole”. Her young guests brought the house down with their hoots and whistles.

Prizes for Games

Choose prizes that reflect your personality and tastes.

Are you and your hubby movie buffs? Give out movie passes to cinemas in the mall. Do you have a favourite CD? Wrap it with a ribbon and gift it as a prize. A fan of inspirational books or Japanese manga, give your guests the chance to get to know you better by allowing them to share in your interests.

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.

How to Create Your Own Dream Wedding

2009-08-17T20:55:00.001-07:00

How to Create Your Own Dream Wedding
By January Mae Tan
Wedding Planner - Cebu, Bohol, Manila

Create a Dream Journal

Capture your dreams for your wedding via a dream journal or a mood board. This could be a corkboard on your room that you tack up pictures to, a clearbook file of pictures that appeal to you, a private photo album in Multiply, or even a blog that you share with your friends.

Add in photos, textiles, samples of anything that appeal to you, like feathers, old lace, sinamay, colored sand or coconut bark. Also add in old invitations that you like, pictures of cakes, bouquets and centerpieces.

Your guiding principle is to: collect, then select. Capture anything that appeals to you. Don’t edit yourself, don’t limit yourself to your budget.

This is a dream journal, not a planner. Allow your creativity, imagination and impulses to have free rein.

Choose a Theme

Now that you have a wide range of pictures and materials to work with, find a running thread to all the items that you have picked out. Your theme is something that you can use to guide you in designing your cake, invitations, decors, giveaways, makeup, and gown designs among others.

Remember to choose a theme that reflects your personalities.

One of my couples met and fell in love in a Japanese company and decided to have a Japanese-inspired wedding. Sakura blossoms graced the front of their invitations and the sides of their cake. The entourage wore gowns with obi-sashes. The bridal cake was topped by a Japanese couple in bridal ensemble. Authentic chopsticks and tea sets were gifted to the guests.

If you are a fun-loving couple who like to think outside the box, you can choose a whimsical theme and have a pop-up invitation, personalized bubbleheads for your giveaways, miniature caricature dolls for your cake topper and bridal car decors.

Brainstorm

Now, that you have a chosen your theme, bring your working dream journal or mood board with you and show it to your fiancé, parents, wedding planner and friends who are recent brides.

Also show this to your preferred partners such as your florist, baker, invitation maker. Listen closely to their advise. Ask questions to determine which of your ideas is feasible on your budget and applicable to your venue. A beach-themed cake design may not be appropriate for a garden reception.

Throw the Rulebook Out

After brainstorming with family and friends, it is important to remember that this is still your wedding day and not theirs. If you want to have that beach-themed cake at a garden reception, go ahead. If you want to wear sneakers with your bridal gown, go ahead. It is your wedding day, go ahead live it up!

Check out our Official Website for our portfolio, special offers and freebies.