Anyone planning their weddings from overseas?

[snipsnap]

hi sya! good luck with the art museum. hopefully your parents will be ok with it!! which reminds me, we had a company party at a public library last year it was really unique, I suspect a wedding at the musuem will be similar.

Arghks am not really done with shopping yet, will have to battle the crowds this weekend. I can't wait..not *GULP*

I'm not sure about florists either since they were included with my package. SGbrides has a list of florists. Hrmm if you arrange the flowers yourself you'll have to get vases or something to hold them. Katgrrl is right ... might be alot of work and decisions at the last minute since it would make more sense to purchase the vases or whatever in singapore. Personally I like fresh flowers better

I like the pond too

) though much of his work is in B&W. I wanted to have some in color as well to capture the vibrance of the wedding. Wonder if NH can do that in addition to b&w. Am trying to make my final decision. Also considering Benny Ang (google for website). Their prices are similar. I would also have them be specific about who your photographer will be for that day (if it is not a 1 person business). Most of the better photographers return your negatives. ALso check if there is a maximum number of rolls and how much additional rolls cost. Digital or print proofs, the album created (if any) and the number of enlarged print included in the package.

katgrrl..wow good detective work regarding the copyright!

$42 per bottle??? that is ridiculous...probably costs more than the wine hehe. did u try getting them to waive the charge?suzxie... hrmmm is the priest flexible? 0 well guess you are prolly somewhere in Finland now feasting on some reindeer stew.

 

[katgrrl]

Hi Snippy,

My friend engaged Benny Ang and I like his work as well. However, he seemed to have gotten some bad review on this forum. Hmm, I thought Benny was more expensive though...and he doesn't return the negatives. When's your AD btw?

Yup, did try getting the hotel to waive on cockage but apparently they're quite unyielding on this point.

Suzxie, I hope the baptism cert thingey works out fine...Don't worry, God will provide a way

Sya, I think the SAM is pretty cool as a venue! Have u also considered the Singapore Civilisation Museum or Chijmes?

Take care everyone!

 

[suzxie]

Hello all!

Back now. Katgrrl - hope your exam goes ok for you. Finland was great.. they sure do eat exotic stuff! I didn't get to try as much food as I would like to but I did manage to get some goodies from Stockmann (the Takashimaya of Helsinki?!) to try at home.. on your recommendation, got some chanterelle, reindeer (flying in my belly soon!), cheese, sausages and some cloudberry jam (love the name). Also got Bear (yes of the Yogi & Boo Boo variety) soup and Elk soup. Mmm.. it shall be a gastronomic adventure.. am about to go up to my inlaws for the weekend.. will bring my spoils up to them to share

On other matters:

Corkage: Katgrrl, Snipsnap - yep, agree totally corkage is such a rip-off. Raffles especially... we managed to negotiate a 16 bottle corkage free allowance (11 base + 5 bottles extra cos we did not use Raffles' invitation cards). I am considering whether I should exploit this to the max and buy 1.5Litre bottles of wine (double the size of a normal bottle) in UK to bring to Singapore. Duty free allowance is 1 Litre of wine per person but as we are travelling as a group, it should not a problem. I think we will save about $300-400 on corkage but is it worth the hassle? Hmm.. probably yes as I'd be broke after the wedding!

Copyright: Have checked this out in the Singapore, US and Aussie statutes (the laws are pretty similar). Kat's summary of s30 is right but (sorry!) under (c), the "the person who commissions a photo" is actually us.. we commission it from the photographer and therefore we own it UNLESS the photographer had put a sneaky clause in his contract which reverses this position (Checked my contract with the Pond- and no such clause). So not to worry - particularly me as I'm not photogenic anyway and have a snowball's chance in hell that my wedding pics will be reproduced in ads

.

As for building a relationship with your photographer: I have communicated via email with mine, and am sending him 1. our wedding itinerary, 2. photographs and a short description of all important people (parents, sibling) so he knows who/what to look out for, 3. a list and some photographs of "must have" shots and 4. am also organising him to attend one of our family's functions so that everyone can meet each other. So hopefully that should suffice! (The Bridezilla in me is taking a bow..)

SAM: Sya excellent venue - I do hope it works out for you! Little Britain is pretty cool isn't it - I heard them on Radio 1 with Chris Moyles promoting their tour next year. V funny.

Flowers: my mom uses www.fareastflora.com to buy fresh flowers and arranges them herself- I think you can get a bulk discount if you're buying loads.

That's it for now.. have a good weekend, everyone!

 

[snipsnap]

hi katgrrl! ..Benny's package (2k) is more expensive than the Pond but it includes an album. I believe the Pond's package comes to the same price if you add the album. Benny's contract also states that negatives will be returned. Perhaps he's revised it recently! Yup read the bad reviews on another thread too. Anyway I'm not really sold on Benny yet ... still thinking about it

urhgk tough decision

suzxie ... you might want to check whether Raffles Hotel allows duty free alcohol to be served. Our hotel doesn't! I remember seeing it in the contract. And they can probably tell that it is duty free too because the bottle sizes are different. As you can see I've thought of sneaking it in too

Inviting the photographer to the family function is a good idea! I might have to steal that too heheh *takes notes* anyway u have to let us know how the pictures turned out since Katgrrl is using them ...and I will too .. probably. they were the only one we liked and had time to scope out while we were home!

 

[suzxie]

hi snipsnap.. you're quite right .. raffles does not allow duty free alcohol to be served. we are thinking of purchasing the bottles from our local store in uk (would be duty paid in uk, but not subject to any duty in singapore so duty free in singapore).. so technically wrong to serve it but bottles will not have duty free marks on it. it is still chancey and still wondering whether it is worth the hassle...

the pond: I think normal albums are included in the price but you do need to pay extra if you want a *special* album (heavens knows what that is...)

 

[katgrrl]

Hi Suzxie & Snippy,

Whoa! Gastronomic adventure indeed! How on earth did u get Bear or Elk soup? Was it in a can? Pls let me know how they taste and the brand because I/we'd like to try them too!

In what form were the chanterelles in? Here's a simple recipe: heat up a little oil (not olive oil because it's too strong for the chanterelles), fry some diced onions until they turn translucent, add the mushrooms that have been cut into manageable chunks, fry over low heat until most of the liquid has evaporated and finally, add cream to it and season to taste. This chanterelle sauce may be tossed with pasta or eaten over a good steak. But if u've bought the salted ones, (not sure if they do though), make sure u soak them a couple of hours or overnight, changing the water occasionally.

Hmmm, I guess there has been a misunderstanding. Re: s30(c) When I referred to "them" in my earlier post, I meant the bridal couples (i.e. us) not the photographers. Thus what u said about the photographers who insert a 'sneaky' clause is exactly what I meant by "unless other stated in the agreement". But seriously, how many couples seriously know that they own the copyright and therefore the digital pictures and rolls of firm?

On the duty paid liquor in UK but not Singapore... Hmph! I wonder if the UK-Spore Double Tax Avoidance treaty covers this aspect? I know it probably covers company & personal taxes, but duty of liquor? ponder... gosh, this topic is getting too heavy at this hour.

Re the Pond: oh, I didn't know that there's a difference between normal and special albums. Meeting everyone at the function is also a good idea. I recall Ngiap Heng mentioning about a couple who wanted to convey the importance of their families in their lives, so instead of the usual outdoor-bridal shots, Ngiap Heng spent 2 days with both families who were having a Christmas celebration together. The result captured the essence of the couple really well...the importance of Christmas (since they were Christians) & families.

TGIF..and it's the week before Christmas

Mag & Sya, how are u both doing?

 

[cello]

hellooo girlies,

i am having the most ridiculous PMS. i was trying not to laugh in the midst of anger, sulking and tantrums when ben asked me "are you having your p-p-p-p-p-eriod?". i could only stare at him in a millisecond when i started laughing.

i've got the call from my parents. seems like SAM glass hall might be too small for our 160 guests especially since we are wanting a sit down buffet. Grrrr! I don't know how feasible it is to rent out a small marquee in between the glass hall and the court yard. It might turn out looking weird...especially since dividing the group inside and outside will turn out quite 'wrong'.

Looks like Mrs here needs a Plan B. I went to look other museums as suggested but same story goes. they seem to be able to accomadate 120 seating guests. I do love the asian civilisation musuem. they rock my socks! have you seen the pictures of one of their wedding reception that was once being held there? the whole theme was spot on! exactly what i had in mine...minus the round tables.

i checked out the pond website, chris ling, gabriel m and another (forgotten which). I really like the work of all of them. right you girlies have a one day wedding day and i'm guessing it is going to cost about $2000. is that with studio shots and the actual day?I've also noted down the pointers which Snippy mentioned, so thank you for that. i emailed all of them asking how much they are going to charge me for studio, a full day on saturday and sunday. i am begining to feel quite afraid with what they might say.... hopefully it is nothing ridiculous like $3000 coz it will need ALOT of justification and persuasion.

ladies, what photography package are you having? love the detective work katgrrl! that is awesome news. i remember speaking to a shop in bugis junction once and i remember him saying something about paying more if you want your negatives and even more if you want to choose more pictures. anything additional is extra more. everything is MORE. crikey!

my mum mentioned to me about buying flowers in bulk from wholesale. she's offered to do the arranging so god must help me for everything turning out fine on that day. ;-) i'll have to remember about the 'cut flowers preservative'... we are going to reuse the flowers on saturday for the sunday's wedding reception as well. it makes more sense...been on some floral websites trying to get ideas. i doubt i'll choose anything fancy. in fact, i'd rather have the flowers in a clear jar next to a line of candles.

speaking of drinks...... i've asked this before on femalebrides. in your opinion, do you think it is fine for guests to pay for their own alcoholic drinks if attending a 'muslim' wedding? i can't possibly have a cocktail bar coz then it will be wrong on my end. my parents will go ballistic considering they are very religious. any suggestions on how i can work this one out. normal circumstances, i wouldn't mind providing them. it is against our religion to provide or buy anyone alcoholic drinks let alone drinking them. thing is, i do have some guests and ben's family flying over and you know what it is like..... i think i can get out of this if the wedding reception is not going to be at a hotel. otherwise, there's always an after wedding party right? hah! why are drinks in singapore so expensive?!? anyone here knows on average how much will a glass of wine/a pint/ a mixed/ bottled drink back home will cost?

january sales is coming here in england (brillaint news!) so it is the best time to go searching and buy Ben's suit. Might have to go into London for that. Not too keen about it as it'll be manic in London.

suzxie- glad you enjoyed them as well. we first started listening to them when it was just on radio so was pleased when their series came out on tv. i am hoping their live show will be just as fabulous.

right girls, gonna have to catch up on wrapping up the presents.
will catch up in abit!
xx


ps: why is gabriel (think men and des) not allowed on this discussion board?

 

[suzxie]

Hello everyone!!!

My my, it's Tuesday already and Christmas is at the end of the week!! So fast! What are everyone's plans?

Katgrrl: many thanks for the chanterelle receipe. To tell you the truth, I was wondering how to cook it until your receipe came along. Now I can't wait to try. YUM!

Also, sorry about my confusion on your post on copyright. Glad we cleared it up!

Alcohol: I have decided that it would be too much hassle to bring over bottles and will buy my wine from Raffles instead, if need be. Well, one thing less to worry about now!

Sya: hope you are over the worst of your PMS! My H2B always looks a little scared when I have mine

What other venues are you considering besides SAM? Are you going for a specific theme eg garden/poolside/seaside wedding?

drinks: i think it is fine for guests to pay their own way, especially in view of your religious considerations. Some couples do throw separate parties for friends and relatives - ie an informal one where people can let their hair down and party and a more formal one for relatives with proper decorum etc etc.

Re prices of wine- I am budgeting $20-$30 per bottle (9 glasses) exclusive of corkage. My sis is helping me to buy it and I am not sure where she is getting it from. But you might want to check out http://www.fairprice.com.sg/ or http://www.coldstorage.com.sg/mall/ although I am sure that there are other posts in the general forum about wine and where to get it.

Jan Sales: Hurray!!! I need a bigger paycheck!! I am thinking about getting a traditional morning tailcoat for H2B in the sales (do you think that it is over the top for Singapore?? see http://www.hire-society.com/ Any views welcomed!) Alternatively, it'll be a cream/white suit which I guess can be re-worn as separates. Help!!

OK, that's it from me for now. I'm off to catch a boat tomorrow morning to go to France and spend Xmas and new year with my cousins who live there! I'm so excited! There's going to be French and some good ol'fashion Peranakan cuisine like Ayam Buah Keluak and Ikan Masak Pedas.. My self restraint shall be severely tested!!

Have a great Christmas everyone and a happy New Year!!

 

[snipsnap]

hi ladies...been busy with x'mas shopping. r u gals all done? my experience has been suprisingly good this year actually. hit the malls last weekend and was able to find parking (*gasp*) and the crowds weren't bad either! Hrmm maybe because we chose to go in the late afternoon and at night (stores were open late). anyway got to go finish up some tonight and wrap the gifts ...kinda dreading it. me?? dread shopping??? how can it be ..

sya any update on your reception venue? the pieces seem to be coming together nicely at least the flowers hehe! btw a word of advice..book your AD photographers early!!! I emailed pond, pentaserve and benny ang and they are all taken for my wedding date! I am so dissapointed and incredulous ..hello..july isn't even that popular for weddings. *hrrmpf* anyway I need suggestions for other photographers. please let me know!! desperate bride here. Oh yeah..sya you can do your 'studio shots' on the day itself too ..no need for an addtional shoot which woudl mean extra cost. hrmm no idea about the 'men and des' either. anyone care to explain?

regarding the alcohol i went to a muslim wedding recently and none was served, no cash bar either. I wasn't really bothered by it coz I knew what the parents were like

if you tell your guests in advance they will understand. maybe you can have an open tab at an after party later in the night.

wow suzxie sounds like a feast !! *jealous* i think I'll have to settle for the primadeli laksa pastes at our family x'mas hah. btw the tux with tails sounds neat! I think it'll be pretty unique in SG

...my cousin recommended my fiance wear that..too bad he already bought his suit and we sent so much $$ on it

 

[ashlee]

Hiya

I can't believe it has taken me soooo long to find this thread! And there I was thinking I muz be out of my mind, trying to plan a wedding from a faraway land! I feel so comforted now!!!

Katgrrl
How come u never tell me abt this thread huh? Hmm...

Suzxie & Sya
You gals live in London then? I commute in from Billericay, Essex to the West End...
Sale is starting but I am already too broke to buy anymore!

Sya
Little Britain tickets? Are they going to have a performance??! I LOVE LITTLE BRITAIN... they are so slapstick but so funny too!

Oh! I am going back next week for a couple of weeks... u gals need anything from home?

 

[kkyko]

Hi there,
I'm new to the forum but excited to learn that there are people trying to organise their weddings in SG from overseas!!!
I'm currently residing in Sydney and trying to organise the SG wedding dinner here while my fiance is also working overseas at the moment. Great if you guys can give me some lead on organising the dinner.
The wedding will be held on 22nd Oct 2005.
Just wondering if any of you guys can give me advice for finding a good bridal packages.I'm thinking of getting pre-wedding shoots in SG in April when I'm there. Hopefully can find a place where we can borrow the gowns, so I can bring them back here for my actual day on 15th Oct in Sydney and bring them back to SG later in the month. Do these bridal packages include AD photo shoots as well?
I'll be in SG for 2 weeks in Mar/April period. Do you think 2 weeks is good enough to get a made to measure gown at those bridal shops?

Thanks heaps!!!

 

[kkyko]

Hi KatGrrl,
Just read the comment above and your WG tailor sound good especially she can deliver the gown in 2 weeks!!! Can u give me the contacts of your WG tailor? In Sydney, it would easily cost you AUD800-900 just to RENT a gown!!! X) Thanks!

I went to Helsinki in May this year 'coz my fiance was there for training. Had some really traditional Finnish food and my stomach couldn't handle too much cream at one time too well. Rushed to the toilet in the middle of the main dish...

 

[piyopiyo]

Hi gals!! I am finally over and done with my wedding! So sorry for replying late but was busy meeting up with friends and spending time with family.

Our wedding went off really smoothly. I must recommend all of you who are planning a wedding overseas to have a wedding planner. Then, our parents will have less to hassle over too. You can be a "fly back and get married" bride.

To all who are new, to get through the wedding comfortably, we got a wedding planner to help us to look after the wedding details. I bought my wedding gown from US and took our wedding photo shoot in US too.

Took up a bridal package with Camellia Haute Couture and Nicole did a really good job for us too. Very satisfied with her services. On actual day, Bernard from Beetles@work was our photographer. I just received the photos yesterday and I am very impressed with his work. Love the photos very much.

My wedding planner did a great job too. She sourced the venue for us, liaised with the hotel coordinator, ballroom decoration, videography on actual day, flowers and bridal car arrangement, and also a classical quartet to play live music and a professional emcee on our wedding banquet. All were so beautifully done and we received many praises from our guests. Even my parents were impressed cos they basically just need to concentrate on dressing up and appear as hosts that day.

This whole wedding was initially meant for our parents but as the day approaches, we realized that it meant alot for us too. Thus, with a wedding planner and MACRO management, I must say that I am a happy bride. My tip is basically since we are so far away from home, we really need to be more open minded and delegate out the minor tasks. If we want to keep control of everything, it will stress us out and we will be an unhappy bride cos you bet there will be alot of unpleasant surprises when you are back.

Loading up my wedding photos and will share with you gals when it is done.

 

[ashlee]

Piyo

Congrats! Aww... cool that your wedding turned out so well! Can't wait to see your photos.

Was thinking of engaging a wedding planner, but dropped the idea as the couple of them whom I emailed did not reply, and we figured it doesn't take that much anyway and it is another extra cost that me and my poor fiance can do without, hehe... hopefully nothing is going to go wrong... *fingers crossed*

Karen
I am going back tomorrow to meet my gown designer (The Wedding Present) and will be taking studio and outdoor photos on the 4th! Such a rush as I am back for only two weeks.
The bridal studio is going to lend me the gowns for photoshoot and they would also design my wedding and evening gowns for the actual day. Very nice people. Maybe you can give them a call and see if they can rent you the gowns for the period of time you are looking at?
www.weddingpresentbride.com

 

[mtan]

PIYO - Congrats. Really happy for u that your day went well. Can't wait to see your photos

Ashlee - Didn't know that u r base in Billericay. I work in Basildon and stay in London, so we commute in opp dirn everyday!!

Karen - Make sure u book appts wherever possible b4 u go home. I will be home in Feb'05 for 2 weeks too. (CNY and Wedding Prep, tentatively Oct/Nov.) Am keeping my fingers cross that I can accomplish the mega tasks.

I am considering either RH or FH for my banquet. Mum sabo me by reducing her no. of tables, so now I cannot meet FH min table reqm, though I really like FH. Will need to decide fast. Arghh....

Anyway Merry X'mas and A Happy New Year

 

[cello]

hello girls!

just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas. I will be away from tomorrow onwards till the New Year so hope everyone have a lovely festive holidays.

Congratulations Piyo with your wedding day and am happy for you that everything went beautifully. I did mention using a wedding planner to Ben and his family but they all felt like it was just another additional cost we can all do without. I am hoping my sisters (and mum) who will be my unofficial planners do just a good job!

I haven't been able to do anything 'wedding' now with christmas round the corner. Will probably update more after the New Year hopefully with better news. I did try looking at more wedding photographers online portfolio and am now lost with whom I'd like to sign up with. The packages are endless!

Ashlee and Karen welcome to the thread. I am not based in London but on the south coast. I am in dorset which is about 2hrs away from London and live in a town called Poole. How long have you been in England for?

Well, gotta go now .... Have a spanking New Year and to those going back home to singapore, have a fabulous time! Speak soon!

XX

 

[kkyko]

Hi gals,

Merry X'mas!!!

Hi Magdalene,
Yeah.. I'm thinking of going to SG for 2 weeks as well during the CNY period but I haven't booked the tickets yet... wondering if I'll be able to book anything... XP So you've booked appointment with all the bridal shops, right? Did you book the appts base on people recommendation and all that?

Hi Ashlee,

I called WeddingPresent and they are not that helpful on the phone... I suppose a face to face consultation is necessary for this kind of thing... but thanks for the recommendation...

 

[katgrrl]

Hi everyone!

Sorry for being MIA for awhile. Family was here for Christmas & NY and everything went crazy! Finally, we're getting back to some semblance of sanity here

Ashlee & Karen, welcome to the thread! Karen, the contact for the tailor is Christine on Level 2 of International Plaza. I seem to recall that her shop's located pretty close to the escalator. Sorry, I lost her card so perhaps you may have to engage your friend/family to do some legwork for you. One thing though, I can't vouch for her workmanship as I didn't examine it at length. The other thing is that you probably need to have a pretty good idea of the design you want. If you wanna go with a tailor, my suggestion is to try on a dozen gowns in Sydney and know what works for you or doesn't.. e.g. the type of sleeves, waistline etc. Then find THE design you want and bring it along with you when you speak with her. Btw, I didn't go with Christine as I'd found a bridal shop in Helsinki I could work with ...although I was so tempted to switch!

Hmph, sorry to hear about your 'mid-meal dash', you're probably lactose intolerant. Btw, did you know that restaurant menus usually indicate whether the item is lactose or glutten free? Lots of folks here either have some intolerance or allergy for certain foods.

Sya & Snippy, decided on your photographer? Pls book soon though... Here are a couple more alternatives: www.photospace.com.sg, www.ostudio.com.sg & andrewchoi.com

Piyo, welcome back! Show us your pix soon

For me, it's kinda late for a wedding planner now as I've got most of the large items ironed out. Besides, the cost saved could go towards our honeymoon!

Suzxie, arrrrrrgggh! don't tempt me with those Peranakan dishes! I'm so mighty jealous!!!

Happy 2005!!!

 

[tootsieroll]

Hello again peeps, after months!

Ashlee + Magdalene: I'm in the Wirral, but am looking to move to Brentwood, where FH is!! Wow, how bizarre is this?! I was actually considering applying for jobs at Basildon and Billericay!

Suzxie: How's the bap cert search going? Our parish secretary has been totally anal about this extract stuff, wanting our documents yesterday, although she's friendlier now that we've done what she asked for (so she can go ahead and make joint extract).

Katgurl: thanks for your advice on Deed poll on another thread

I come back to singapore next Thursday....hurrah! FH will finally get to meet FILs....it's all rather nerve wrecking, he's to be on his best behaviour! Got loads to do in the 2 weeks....gotta meet priest, go for marriage course, meet up with Four Seasons, sort out photo/video people, makeup etc etc....stress stress stress!! But I'm sure everyone is stressed up enough, so I won't say too much

Hope you all had a good New Year

 

[kkyko]

Hi Tootsieroll,

You mentioned something about attending marriage course. Is it held by the church? I'm thinking of going for a marriage course with my FH as well but don't know if we've got enough time to do so. I'm going to SG for 2 weeks over Easter holiday!!!

Please advice!!!

Happy New Year to all of you!!!

 

[katgrrl]

Hi Karen,

Btw, check out www.courses.com.sg/marriage.htm for MPCs (Marriage Prepartory Courses) conducted by non-Christian associations. Alternatively, if you belong to a church, you may consider approaching your priest or pastor on what he can do for your situation.

 

[tootsieroll]

Hi Karen,

Yes it is....I'm Catholic, and it's a requirement. As KatGrrl said, if you're not Christian and are interested in one, then there's that link which is available

2 weeks....hectic time!!

 

[suzxie]

Hi everyone!

Back in circulation now after Christmas hols. Ate loads (yum yum, oysters, foie gras, satay, devils curry, ayam buah keluak, ju hu cha...), played risk, watched movies and am now 4x the size I was. About to roll down the aisle as a white meringue. O dear.

UK gals: I haven't been to the sales yet. I still need to get some shoes, a veil, presents for family etc. Have you been and how are the sales so far?

Katgrrl: Bear/Elk soup etc.. I got them from Stockmann at the airport. I've given them away to family so don't know what it tastes like! Ah well.

Toots: We are still waiting to hear back from FH's church in Africa where he was baptised. FH is convinced that the Catholic church is out to persecute him. Ah well, our 1 day marriage prep course is next week... we are having the "shotgun" version.. fill in online questionnaire and then get psychoanalysed and counselled for an afternoon. Interesting...

All, in all, only 4 weeks more to go.. PANIC!!!!

 

[katgrrl]

Hei Suzxie,

I feel your excitement!!

Gosh, I'm next if none of you girls are holding yours between Feb & May

When are you going back to SG? Will Laurence be going back with you? Btw, if you are looking for a fairly simple veil, I know of a bridal wholesaler in SG who sells a veil for 20-30 bucks. Check out http://www.bridalnet.com.sg/0701.htm Make sure you ask for soft tulle as I found the samples at the warehouse pretty coarse. I believe they could even customize a veil for you if they haven't got it.

Tootsie, Bon Voyage! and remember to stay calm

Sigh, I need to get cracking on our MPC too. We'll have to do it Finland for practical reasons. Suzxie's shotgun version sounds good...

Name / Based in / WeddingDay / Venue / B.Shop
PIYO, US, 12/12/04, M Hotel, Camellia Haute Couture
Suzxie, UK, Feb 05, Raffles Hotel/SVDP Church, nil
KatGrrl, Helsinki, May 05, RH, nil
MTan,UK, Sep/Oct'05,Deciding on Hotel/STC Church, nil
Missy, US, Nov 05, Hotel New Otani, Universal Bridal studio

 

[tootsieroll]

Katgrrl,

Great site! Just what I was looking for....I'll pay that place a visit too when I go back cos I also need a veil and traditional costume.

 

[tootsieroll]

BTW, what is everyone doing in terms of hiring their bridal car? I'm not doing anything via a bridal shop, so gotta find an a la carte car hire...dunno what is the going rate at the moment?

 

[ashlee]

Tootsieroll & Magdalene
What a small world!!! We live soooo close here, we gotta meet up one day. Go get the wedding shoes and stuff together! Need some good shoes for my wedding gown and red evening gown. But so expensive here, any lobang anyone?

Suzxie
Need shoes too...

Me thinking of hiring a car for the wedding as well. Thinking of london cab, yes, very cliche, but it is convenient as it is big enough for the big wedding gown isn't it? But I havent really looked into it... Tootsieroll, will keep you informed after my research?

Karen
Oh dear, dunno why the wedding present din respond to you too well. Cross my heart, I am not lying, they are truly nice people. In fact, I really never experienced service better than theirs. Maybe you caught them on a bad day. I too emailed and called them from abroad, and they were so nice I paid the deposit even before meeting them. Why dun you email them at [email protected]? I strongly recommend you to give it another go.
We went back on X'mas day and cos our Photoshoot was on 4th, they rushed to finish my fiance's gown in less than a week, and they also kindly lent me gowns off the rack for my photoshoot. They even got my AD gowns almost done so I can do the fitting whilst I was still in Singapore (and my AD is still six months away). And the gowns are gorgeous!!! Wanna give it another go?

Name / Based in / WeddingDay / Venue / B.Shop
PIYO, US, 12/12/04, M Hotel, Camellia Haute Couture
Suzxie, UK, Feb 05, Raffles Hotel/SVDP Church, nil
KatGrrl, Helsinki, May 05, RH, nil
MTan,UK, Sep/Oct'05,Deciding on Hotel/STC Church, nil
Missy, US, Nov 05, Hotel New Otani, Universal Bridal studio
Ashlee, UK Billericay, July 05, Raffles Hotel, The Wedding Present

 

[ashlee]

Tootsieroll
If you are going to that Bridal warehouse place that Katgrrl suggested, can get a veil for me? I just came back to UK yesterday, urgh! should have checked the forum when I was in singapore!

 

[ashlee]

Sya
Try Chris Ling Photographers. Found their work the most impressive. Nice people as well! We just had our Photoshoot done by Kelvin from Chris Ling.

www.chrisling.com.sg

 

[suzxie]

Hi gals!

Great to read everyone's posts...

Katgrrl: thanks for the veil tip! I haven't found one yet and it is very comforting to know that I have an alternative if I don't find one before I leave UK. Thanks very much for that!

We (Laurence's family and I) will be leaving UK for SG from 2-20 Feb, and in 2.5 weeks, we will be covering 3 countries (Malacca, Malaysia, Singapore and Bali), 1 wedding and 1 Chinese New Year. Phew!! It's now a whirlwind of holiday and wedding planning.. eeks!

Toots: Have a great time back in Singapore... I'm sure everything will be fine!

Ashlee: got my shoes at BHS (simple ivory sandals with ankles straps) for £10 (reduced from £20), in the jan sales. I love a bargain!

My mum just told me that she is hiring a Mercs (new shape) for S$400+ with driver and decoration. I was all for borrowing my cousin's Audi convertable but she was against it

A London cab sounds great - you might want to check out this website: http://www.smrttaxis.com.sg/website/2/Wedding/index.asp Strangely, the cabs look too new to be London cabs but hey, that's Singapore for you!

I have now - finalised the hotel accomodation for our final night stay in Singapore... (have settled with Hotel Intercontinental, as it is highly rated in www.tripadvisor.com and www.hotelcheckpoint.com and was cheaper than Raffles the Plaza - $150 for a deluxe room or $185 for a peranakan shophouse room, rather than Raffles' $225. Prices exclude taxes @17% and are available from the hotel group's website. Hope this info is useful to someone! I have also bought wedding shoes and a shed-load of thank-you gifts for helpers and family in the Jan sales.. principally nice WH Smith notebooks for £1.99(!), picture frames, soaps and other smellies from Boots.

I am now - deciding on my food tasting, finalising my order of service, finalising the music for the church reception, pre-dinner cocktails, and post-dinner dance, finalising Laurence's clothes (we have an appointment with www.youngbrideandgroom.co.uk - they sell an ex-hire morning coat, trousers and waistcoat at £120... for anyone who is interested), writing my dad's speech (!), deciding on the dinner logistics (cake cutting, change of clothes etc etc).

Most of the RSVP's are back and my mum expressed some surprise that her original estimate of 80 people for the church reception has suddenly gone to 200 people instead. *Pengsan* I don't know whether we will have the room and we will have to find the cash but let's hope that there's some bread and fish on the day for a feeding-of-the-5000 miracle!! Also somehow a 20 table dinner has now become a 24 table dinner + 1 childrens table.

Phew!! I feel I need a lie-down already.

It is nice to vent here about these things... Take care and catch everyone later!

 

[tootsieroll]

Whoah Suzxie! You have really got everything in hand! Do you know which company your mom is hiring the merc from? $400+ with driver isn't bad I reckon. All will be well, breathe, breathe, breathe

Ashlee: Yes that shouldn't be a problem, I'll be in Singapore from Thursday till 29 Jan. My potential makeup person has veils she loans out for free, but I think I might go down to that shop anyway, cos I'm thinking about a petticoat. Can email me at [email protected] to let me know your requirements/budget etc.

Shoes, yea, still need those, but my mind tells me I still have 5 months for those....Still trying to decide about a traditional kua thing, but like Katgrrl, have blown £££ on the wedding gown, so ideally will like to wear that as much as possible. Ohwell.

Still need to hassle FH over his suit....he's playing really cool about things, like he can do everything within a day....how to tell him that things to work so easily?!

 

[snipsnap]

hi ladies hope you all had a good xmas and new years

I did manage to hit the coach factory outlets last weekend and scored some cute mini wallets for bridesmaids gifts at discounted prices of course. just needed to share my spoils hehe

ashlee read on another thread that you are doing your ROM on the same day as well. Have you gotten a Justice of Peace? How will you have the ceremony? I wanted a more western style one though I'm not sure if the JPs do that? not sure how to go about doing it. any tips will be welcome!

 

[snipsnap]

suzxie..hello ..the audi convertible is way cooler (and free)???!!!! tootsie .. must wear the kua lah

don't think we'll ever have the chance to wear something like this again. and its something of our heritage that we can incoporate into the wedding. and your friends in the UK will find it super dooper cool and drool over it! trust me ethnic is in lol

 

[katgrrl]

Hi ye all,

Suzxie, I can just *feel* the amount of things u've gotta do over here...Breathe....I very nearly pressed the panic button myself.. and then made a mental note to start booking my airticket soon.

Yoo, like Snippy, I thought the Audi convertible is way cooler. Btw, will your cousin rent? (evil grin*)

Oh, 1 thing about the bridal wholesaler I told u gals about? Be mentally prepared that it's in a warehouse but once u get into the shop, it should be ok. I gotta warn that it's a little 'cheena' as well

Hmmm, Snippy, your comment about ethnic sets me off thinking. I've always wanted to get a cheongsam so I'm now considering making one for the photoshoot. It'd also be something that I can wear for formal dinners or concerts after the wedding. Anyone has a tailor to recommend?

 

[ashlee]

Suzxie
Cool, looks like u are almost set! Good gal!
Thanks for the link to rental of london cab. Expensive siah? $588... more ex than a benz! Think might have to think of alternatives... You gotta make your cousin lend you that audi convertible. I am sure she'll say yes if you ask again.

Hotel wise, I like Carlton. Might get a couple of nights for my fiance to stay before the wedding. hehe, just across the street from Raffles, how convenient!

Snippy
Ya, doing solemnisation and dinner on same day. Havent got the JP yet though. Thought it is not a good idea to book them so much in advance, or so I heard from the other threads lah. So will only panic and try in a couple of months' time lor.
What do u mean by Western style? Hehe, thought civil solemnisation all use standard script one. What do u have in mind? hmm... you having a church wedding then? We are doing ours in the hotel lawn so will have the march in, and dad hand me over to the groom but no prayers of any sort as I am not religious.
Maybe you can check with your JP to see if you can do whatever you plan on doing?

Agree on the kua point snippy made. But I am also another one who blew budget on every single item on the list. So where can I get cheap kua leh? hehe...

Katgrrl
I saw this shop at Centrepoint 2nd floor called Lady Xiang. Very very pretty cheong sum, tailor-made as well. But it was too ex for me, simple ones are $400-500 and saw a really nice long one for nearly $800. Sigh, if only I havent overspent on everything...

 

[suzxie]

Breathe IN... Breathe OUT... Breathe IN... Breathe OUT...

ahhhhh... I feel better now, thanks girls!

Yes, I do prefer my cousins' electric blue Audi convertable. Unfortunately my mum insists on the Mercs. So I will have to compromise. My FH has selflessly stepped in to offer to be driven in it to the church (hmph). Looks like we'll go with that and I will arrive in the Mercs.
Katgrrl - unfortunately my cousin's from KL so a cross-border rental may be difficult! I'll keep my eyes out for you anyway.

Hmm.. agree with Snip Snap as well on the kua. For us, we have somehow managed to ended up with 3 outfits -
(1) Western (me: white dress/FH: morning suit),
(2) Chinese (me: kua/FH:some long chinese suit with cap!- have not seen either of these yet!) and
(3) Peranakan (me: sarong kebaya/FH: silk batik shirt (long sleeve).
I don't know the tailor for the kua and the sarong kebaya was made in Jakarta with my measurements and sent to me, and it fitted like a glove! We plan to use (1) for the church, (2) for the tea pouring ceremony and (2) and (3) for the wedding dinner. It'll be a hoot! If you girls want to know the name of the Jakarta tailor, I'll get it for you.

I have now finalised the first draft of my mass booklet at 3.30am this morning... and sent it to the Powers that Be to approve. There is currently dissent in the ranks about the choice of the first song (Morning has broken).. my Singaporean brother in law said... "why Morning has BROKEN? Not auspicious.. why also BLACKBIRD has spoken.. blackbirds are not good in Chinese culture..." Okkkkaaaaaaaayyyyyyy then... back to the drawing board... Sometimes, you just have to laugh!!!

 

[snipsnap]

ashlee> hah I hear you!! *clasps wallet* my budget keeps expanding..soon I won't have money for a honeymoon....*Sighz* Yup, we're not religious either. Basically what i wanted for the solemnization is bridesmaids walking down, flower girl, dad walking me down. Short speech by JP. Dunno but the singaporean ceremony seemed kinda wierd ..coz there is a table where people sit down to sign the papers?? We're doing this at the hotel, they have this room facing the garden with a chapel like ceiling. I really really love the lawn wedding idea!! too bad fiance hates the idea of being outdoors in a suit, under the SG sun. Well keep me updated on the JP search. like you i havne't done anything yet

katgrrl> yup!! should definitely have one made. I showed my cousin (who's married) the cheongsam I am tailoring and she's sold on getting one for herself as well lol. I've always been jealous of my indian friends who have the most gorgeous saris ..hehe so my cheongsam will rival that ... I'm having mine made at Dang. she makes beautiful cheongsams..but it's kinda expensive. $400 or more depending on the design. mine is an evening one and was included in the package. There is this thread on sgbrides about CS tailors too... see if you can find it? oooh i don't know if you all have seen this chinese movie 2046 ... zhang ziyi has the most best cheongsams that she wears with elbow length gloves and pearls in different scenes..for some reason it looks soo darn good on her!

suzxie ..i'm up for 'renting' the audi too! j/k i will be having a boring mercs belonging to FH's mom. but at last I found a place where we can save money! good luck with getting agreement from your 'powers that be'heheh. Wedding planning is such a riot

btw what is everyone having as favors? I am starting to work on mine ..

 

[katgrrl]

Hi gals,

Thanks Ashlee for the CS contact. I may get someone to check it out

Oh speaking about 2046, I just love its cinematography! Each frame was picture perfect... Suzxie, since u booked with Ngiap Heng (Pond) as well, did u know that 1 of the couples in his website had Wong Kar Wai's "In the Mood for Love" as its inspiration? It's very obvious which couple if you look, because there were a lot of beneath-the-surface subtleties.

Suzxie, your sarong kebaya sounds great! I always thought it was very sexy

Snippy, when's your day? For favours, I've decided on sugar coated dragees in organza bags..

Sigh, I guess if I can't find a suitable car, I'll use my dad's car. Will save the money for a dress.

 

[ashlee]

Snippy
Think will go rather random with the JP. Heard from other threads there are a few "celebrity" JP but think will go with any JP or grassroot leader who is free for my date! hehe... yep, will keep u informed!

For favours, think will go with what the hotel is offering lor. Was going to get personalised candles and all, but think not worth the effort and extra bucks. So will just see what the hotel offers near the time of the wedding and just use lor. hehe...

I need a nice kua/CS not more expensive than $300. Any lobang anyone?

Suzxie
Your fiance is real sporting, willing to wear the traditional outfit. My fiance refuses to wear the chinese outfit for men, thinking he'll look silly. Sigh...
And good luck for your mass booklet!

Katgrrl
You're welcome.
Think will save on hiring the car as well, will just borrow from friend. Can't have us busting the budget for everything...

 

[katgrrl]

Hi Ashlee,

I think RH's favours are pretty nice & interesting so it would be ok leaving it to them.

As for CS, my mum made a CS with a tailor at Katong. I don't know how much it costs but she'd to get the material herself. First off, are u looking for rental or to own? Hmph, I don't know how useful this has been for you but if you want to check it out, there should be several tailors at Katong (shopping center, I believe). Are u still in SG? Btw, read on some threads that Bangkok appears to be a cheap place to buy tailor-made CS/suit as well.

Suzxie, Ashlee's right, Laurence must be a great sport to don the long chinese suit with a cap (does that come with a 'pigtail'?

) I don't think Mark (my FH) will do it. He refuses to wear his punjabi suit when I wear mine!

 

[ashlee]

Katgrrl
am in UK now and will only be back one week before the wedding, so tailoring might be out of options. Want to keep it definitely.

Am thinking of this american website www.chinabridal.com. They do kuas and CS but think they are of rather poor quality given the price. But since I am going to wear it only once and never again, might give it a try. What do u think?

 

[moggie]

Hi girls...
I can't tell you how glad I am to find this thread. I thought I was all alone in the quest to plan a wedding from overseas. Getting all flustered and all...Before I blabber on...is this thread still active? Seems no one's posted since 13 Jan. Hope I'm not too late 'cos I'm dying to exchange stories with someone!

 

[suzxie]

hi everyone! back from being rushed off my feet

Rachel
*wave* welcome! come in and make yourself comfy ..

where are you from and when's your AD? Add it to the list! (see one of the posts above...)

Katgrrl
I do think a pigtail is included! Laurence is a good sport tho' and he has accepted his wedding costumes with pretty good grace. He has drawn the line at the traditional "fetching the bride and doing forfeits" though but I am OK with that. Ya gotta choose your battles

As for Mark, I'm sure both of you will look gorgeous in whatever you wear.

You have a punjabi suit? Wow! Sounds amazing? Are you planning to wear it for the wedding? My friend has a seamstress in Singapore. Her cheongsams start from S$200 - I'll ask for her details and pass them onto you.

Snipsnap
My budget keeps expanding too.

I'm just hoping for the best.. My favours are the hotel's chocolates in a silver box. Agree with Ashlee.. it's included in our package and one thing less to worry about!

Ashlee
the dresses in chinabridal.com do look very nice. Sorry no other lobang. How are the rest of your preps going?

My, the weekend was busy. On Friday, I met (for the first time) my dressmaker who is making alterations to my WG.... she is mad and makes me laugh

Basically, I said .. help, I am leaving for Singapore in 2 weeks and my WG needs alternation to fit properly!! But she was fine about it.. I'm looking forward to seeing her tomorrow for the 2nd fitting.

Laurence & I went to the marriage prep course. During the week, each of us had to do a 150 question online questionnaire on our relationship. Laurence was so sweet.. when he was half-way through his questionnaire, he left it, came into the room where I was and gave me hug. He said being asked all those questions about our relationship made him think and appreciate me all the more .. Awwwww... it was just a nice moment.. something that I need in this planning whirlwind! The interview itself was over in 2 hours and was relatively painless. The counseller highlighted areas where we were good at and areas which needed more work. Food for thought.

We also decided finally to rent a morning suit for 2.5 weeks from Young's hire.. it came up to £65 which is great considering I was told to buy an ex-hire suit was £350 (and not £120).

I have just finalised my mass booklet and starting to print them tomorrow. Anyway, enough of my ramblings.. catch everyone later..

 

[moggie]

Hi Suzxie
Thanks. I am very impressed with the website you've set up. Got me quite inspired about creating one for our wedding too! You are in the UK? I was there in Sept. I really like it. Other than the sunshine, the culture is so similar to Oz.

I'm from Singapore. My FH is French. We got to know each other in Spore...and moved here to Sydney Australia almost 3 years ago. Our wedding (officially) is in Sept this year. I say officially 'cos we actually have 3 of them!
One in Sydney for registration purposes in June. One in Singapore (Chijmes) for our friends and family there on Sept 9..and the one on Sept 17 in France for his friends and family.

Planning one wedding is stressful enough...and I have 3 to think about. I'm trying my best not to be a bridezilla but sometimes I can't help it. I guess people in this thread will understand.

I'm making my WG in Sydney. EG will probably be off the rack at Lisa Ho or Collette Dinningan. We are also getting a set of male and female kua - which we intend to buy from House of Etiquette in Spore.

I have a week in Spore in mid Feb to get our kua, makeup and hair, photographer, cake and band...so am in a bit of a panic. So any suggestions or pointers at this point will be fantastic.
Katgrrl had an amazing post about cakes. Thanks for that. Just unreal. I'm definitely going with one of your recommendations.

I'm very new to posting messages. In fact this is one of my first. I've only ever read...Ha! Let me know if this rambling's too much!

 

[katgrrl]

Hi moggie,

Welcome to the thread!

Wow, 3 weddings to plan.. let us know if you need help or recommendations at all. Oh, 1 word of advice, since you've only got a week in SG, do schedule most if not all your appointments for trial MUA (makeup artiste..tsk, all these acronyms

), visit to the photographer's studio, cake tasting and so on. They may be really busy esp during the CNY period and getting a slot with them may prove difficult. For instance, when I was scheduling with the Pond for a discussion, the only coinciding timeslot was 1hr within a 3wk period. Do ask someone in SG to make the calls for you before you arrive.

Wedding cake-wise (hehe, my pet topic isn't it?), it'd help a lot if u've a pretty good idea what design you want. Bring magazine clipouts or web printouts for the discussion..or you could email them for a quotation beforehand. btw, Cheryl Shuen may not accept any additional orders as she has signed on with Shang.

And not to worry, you aren't rambling. We all need to de-stress 1 way or other.

Suzxie,
Thanks for the CS seamstress' contact in advance!

A 2.5wk suit rental for £65 isn't too bad at all! We're thinking of making 1 for him in SG (forget about buying OTR in SG for him, he's so lanky that sleeves and pants are never long enough). Then, when we went to look at some fabric selections at a shop, he <u>only</u> liked the one that came from Italy, was branded and would cost more than S$1000! eeeks. Mind you, this was a tailoring wholesaler at a Toa Payoh factory.

Hehehe...yeah, the punjabi suits are fun. btw, we bought our set at Mustafa for $25 each. It's a laugh really. Both of us have got a thing for Indian food so Little India was like a weekly affair.

Awwwww... brought a smile to me when I read how Laurence came over

Oh, if Laurence isn't going with the "fetching of bride" thingey, how and when are you guys having the tea ceremony? Hmmmmmmmm..............I'm now toying with the same idea. Would he just 'appear' at my parents' place, perform the tea ceremony and then go for the church service? OR perhaps, have the tea ceremony after the service at the church itself? Actually, that would save a bundle as well What do you gals think?

Under house arrest and in near solitary confinement for these 2 weeks. Mark's is in Ukraine

very nearly bought a ticket to Kiev before remembering that a silly visa's needed.

 

[moggie]

Hi Katgrrl
Thanks for the tip. I'll start making calls next week to set up all the appointments. BTW, any hair stylist to suggest?

I was reading your note to suzxie about the tea ceremony. I'm having mine in France. I'm tweaking it a tad. Typically, the bride will be at her mother's house in the morning to beautify herself along with her 'sisters' - bridesmaids, friends, etc. The groom arrives with his gang of groomsmen and close friends and relatives. Then a bit of negotiation at the door by the sisters before the groom is allowed to see the bride. Thereafter the actual tea ceremony at the bride's place with her relatives. Then she goes to the groom's place with him, and together serve tea to the groom's family. Depending on the dialect, I think the couple will have a bowl of sweet glutinous rice balls..
Given the length of time it may take, think it'll be less stressful to have it after the church unless your church starts around lunch.
I'm having mine before church 'cos the mass starts in the evening...

 

[snipsnap]

hi moggie welcome

this thread's really bustling today. second katgrrl's suggestion to make appts before getting to sg. also wedding day photographers really fly off the shelves so do book that early! don't learn it the hard way like i did hehe.

katgrrl...did Mark pick the zegna material too?

haha my FH did too. bleh ..though it is certainly much cheaper to tailor anything in singapore. getting a similar suit would cost more in the US or UK. though now I'm thinking FH should wear a tux instead of the suit he made for the reception. hrmmm he is so going to kill me. but maybe we could rent one for cheap ... ps. your favors sound very martha martha martha ... i'm having this issue with favors since my hotel uses the 'bliss star' system. it's kinda ala carte where you are given a certain number and exchange it for stuff you need. Since we are planning on using most of the stars for corkage, was thinking to forgo the favors and do them ourselves!

suzxie...the excitement of your upcoming wedding is rubbing off on me!! how fun how fun. now i can't wait for my wedding day too

oh wait tons of planning to do

 

[kkyko]

Hi Moggie,

I'm in Sydney as well!!! My wedding is going to be in Oct here in Sydney. Dinner in SG on the following week. Hehehe... I'm also trying to organise the SG dinner here. We can compare notes for the Sydney and SG planning!!!
I'm getting my gowns in SG 'coz it's cheaper there! It's way too expensive here. So as the evening gowns.
You should actually start calling up or writing emails to your potential suppliers in SG for quotes. That's what I did. You should probably short listed bridal shops, photographers, etc.1 week is very short in deed.

 

[ashlee]

Suzxie
Think I am going to get my Cheong Sum from this other website now, so fickle minded hor? hehe... this one originates in Singapore and has a shop at International Plaza. Their CS are very very pretty and affordable! Though dunno if the price is cheaper at their shop at International Plaza. Hmm...
http://www.goodorient.com/

For the rest of my prep, it is ok lor. Just left with shoes, CS, lunch caterer, finding JP, ROM filing and bits...

Aww, your fiance is so sweet. Maybe we should go for the wedding prep course as well. Where did u go for it?

Young's Hire is so cheap? We tried Anthony's and Moss Bros and they are so expensive so we thought it might be cheaper to just buy! We'll check it out for our bestman and my fiance's brother and father. Cheers.

Katgrrl
My fiance can't get any suit OTR in SG as well cos of his "monkey arms" (as my mum refers to it). Haha, so we had his suit tailor-made at our BS and he totally loved it! And it costs only $450! Bargain!

Dunno abt your fiance but mine is very ban-dang abt seeing me before the ceremony. So what we are going to do is get solemnised at the Lawn, where my dad would give me away and then go back to mine for tea ceremony and lunch. Then back to RH to rest and take photos before the dinner.

Moggie
Wah, one week only?! We had two weeks and we nearly died of exhaustion! haha... but that was cos we had to make our gowns and his suit within the two weeks we were there. But it was quite fun. Make sure u call call call now! Dun leave it any longer or you won't get the best service you deserve!

 

[katgrrl]

Ashlee,
Cool site with lots of nice designs! Which one did u get?

Btw, I think their shop at IP is merely an administrative office as there aren't any retail outlets on the 19th floor. So I guess u need not worry about the price being cheaper

$450 for a suit? it's a steal!! hehe..."monkey arms", I'll tell Mark about it when he returns. Nah, mine is not pantang about seeing me before the ceremony. It's either not a Finnish tradition or he's clueless about it..and I suspect is the latter reason. Heard that some customs forbid the groom from even seeing the gown before the ceremony. If that happens to me, I'm gonna die because I so need his help being a handy translator between the seamstress in the bridal shop and me

Snippy,
I can't remember if it was Zegna.. I just know I passed out when I learnt of the price. But it's not a done deal yet as we'd be choosing the fabric again later this year. I'll call up the tailor to bring in more fabric samples before I arrive so that we can have a better selection.

Hehehe...yeah, not sure about being martha but my friend remarked that sugar coated dragees in organza bags sound so...ang mo?

I'm trying to source for dragees here. So far, found mint ones in supermarkets which I'm not too fond of. Btw, do you know of any particular shop (online or brick&amp; mortar) in US that sells them in bulk? Mark will be making a trip to Seattle in 2wks time so he could pick it up if necessary. My source in SG sells it for S$35/kg.

Suzxie, Ashlee &amp; Mag, do you know where I could get sugar coated dragees in the UK?

Hmph, where's Sya I wonder? I hope she's ok.....


Need a tiaraaaa! Thinking of getting it online if I can't 1 in Finland. budget is less than €40 or US$47. help....




Name / Based in / WeddingDay / Venue / B.Shop (in chonological order)
PIYO, US, 12/12/04, M Hotel, Camellia Haute Couture
Suzxie, UK, Feb 05, Raffles Hotel/SVDP Church, nil
KatGrrl, Helsinki, Jun 05, RH, nil
Ashlee, UK Billericay, July 05, Raffles Hotel, The Wedding Present
MTan,UK, Sep/Oct'05,Deciding on Hotel/STC Church, nil
Missy, US, Nov 05, Hotel New Otani, Universal Bridal studio

ps.posting it here again because I got my AD wrong (can u gals believe that?? so sotong!!) June, not May