Thank God for everything!
Looking back, all we can say's that without His uncountable blessings, we'll not be able to have what we're enjoying now. From our courtship... to planning for our Wedding... then our new place... We had our fair share of really tough times too but we've come up stronger & appreciate more of all that we are having now.
We've been the disobedient ones, coincidentally we both drifted away from our churches around the same time but before we knew each other, however He is gracious to us. So happy as we're having the same conviction now... will be attending church again! We plan to go back to my hubby's former church where he's most glad to, but we'll see whether I can adapt. We've also agreed to try visiting others in the meantime.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Just came across this pic while clearing my folders44 our floral piece on each cocktail table on actual day. We love it! But tis taken during the mock-up done by our florist a week b4 our event as sad to say I've (yes again) forgotten to take some close-ups of my cocktail flowers & the candelabra on our Wedding...........
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
ACTUAL DAY
The alarm rang just when I fell into deep zZZzz… Snoozed for 10 mins before dragging myself into the shower cubicle. Got a wake-up sms from my make-up artist & she arrived on the dot. Every1’s still sleeping then & it’s raining.
Uncle Soon Meng & our videographer, Don, arrived very early. I was done in an hr… love my MAU’s work though I looked a lil too white..
All the galz were very punctual. In fact Sara & Celena arrived at the same time & were already chatting happily when they stepped into my room. Was relieved that no1 seemed left out. Guess the main reason’s that they’re all fun-loving & a crazy bunch. Hee.. But never did they forget their ‘duties’ & took very good care of me. Well, it certainly felt good to be so pampered by them!
As for the gate crashing part, they made it a breeze for my dear honey who was requested to sing a canto song. It sounded so… errr… not appealing that Sara ‘begged’ me to tell him to stop! Haha! Thereafter the unveil/present the hand bouquet part, tea ceremony to my parents, photo shoots & then he whisked me off to AMK together with the whole team.
Our dear Uncle Cheng Hwee who’s been driving for soo many years, for don’t know what reason, got lost on the road. The funniest part was all the 4 of us on the bridal car actually knew the direction back to AMK but none of us realize we’re lost until Mel who followed behind couldn’t take it & called us! Initially Mel said she didn’t know the way to AMK & followed the bridal car..who knows! She must have regretted. Ha! Our poor Sara was behind all the way too...
And Don was in Thomas’ car & they overtook us so that he could zoom in & capture us on the highway. Perhaps they were too engrossed in maintaining the speed & distance, also gotta be mindful about safety, we eventually lost them when we took an exit while they went straight. But it ended up that they were the 1st to arrive. Ha!!
Even when we’re nearing our destination, Uncle CH almost made another wrong turn & we stopped him just in time! Hmm.. all we can say’s that he’s even more nervous than us? Hehe...
Had the tea ceremony @ AMK which seemed never ending... but it’s good… in fact, the more the merrier... hee! Instead of feeling bored, we tried having some fun out of it & enjoyed the nearly 45mins process. Took many fotos with the family & relatives that made us felt like a celebrity couple. Slightly more than an hour later, we hurried off to Ritz.
It’s a mad rush after checking in.. I had to remove my gown & make-up as my MUA would appear in 10 mins. While doing the make-up, every1 around (our bros & sis/ families & some relatives) were walking in & out exploring the suite & took pix. Our bros & sis had called for room service & bought fast foods as well & were busy munching before they went down to run the show for us.
After an hour, we’re ready for 2nd tea ceremony... it’s a short 1 though. By then, our team was already down @ the Grand Gallery having briefings with the hotel staff. When the tea ceremony’s done, we cleared the suite to allow the bride to change into her gown again only leaving Ann to help out. I started to have some jitters & nearly messed up my make-up! As a result I was delayed for 1-2 minutes & Sara called several times when she didn’t see me appear...
Well, it’s a great moment to remember. There I was, totally exhilarated & keyed up yet trying to calm myself knowing my very soon to-be hubby was waiting downstairs, together with our beloved families & relatives... our close friends... all of them awaiting to give us their blessings...
We took the same lift with this friendly Caucasian who asked me "so who's the lucky guy?"... when he saw that I was nervous, he tried to calm me by saying "don't worry, you look great". Whoever he was, really thanks for his reassurance.
When I arrived at GG from the suite, they were playing All4One’s “So Much In Love”, like planned . I’d say it’s a very romantic & meaningful song to get every 1 of our mood set…
Then daddy came & stood by my side... we’re ready for the March-in. The original plan was once the song “This I Promise” started playing, Rachel would walk 1st followed by Zoe. But our lil flowergal got so scared that she seemed to be rooted to the ground, not moving an inch despite being pushed gently on her back. So if she’s not moving, Zoe would have to stay put & of coz I couldn’t make my entrance then! After more than 30 seconds, I was about to ask Zoe to hold Rachel’s hand & walk. Just then, Rachel moved her feet & walked very slowly. She looked so adorable & pitiful… I really admired her courage! Zoe did very well... being very calm & steady. So I finally made my entrance!! Just as I stepped onto the red carpet, I became real nervous again all of a sudden & I don’t know why! It didn’t help at all when my gown kept getting stuck in my shoes. Blame it on my bridal shoes with which I’ve a love-hate relationship! Being a pair of mules with a combination of transparent & white glittery straps across the feet when wearing it + the 2½-inch transparent heels, they looked utterly pretty & so “Cinderella-like”... & the 1st time I took them for a walk just 1 week before our Wedding, my feet came back badly battered with 6 plasters on each foot! But I didn’t give up... had some great ideas from buddies & got all prepped on the actual day to conquer them...! Well I succeeded as there’s no pain & blister at all, but they made it extremely difficult for me to walk an inch without having my hungry mules “chewing” on the hem of my gowns. Nevertheless, I don’t regret wearing them as they’d definitely looked beautiful when I lifted my gown & walked. Ha! What to do? Vanity rules!
Ok come back to our Wedding... when we went through the solemnization, it felt simply like a dream came true! It’s exactly what I’ve longed for in my fantasized wedding... with loved ones around, the cozy ambience elegantly themed with my fav colour... When we’re pronounced man & wife, “This I Promise” resumed & we’re totally overwhelmed with emotions… Then my hubby went back to the stage by himself & dedicated a song to me – Richie Ren’s “Ni Shi Wo Lao Po”. I then sashayed to the stage from the back when I was satisfied with his singing. Hee... It’s truly a lovely gift from my hubby! Thank you honey for trying your best to memorize & accurately pronounce the lyrics!
After some heartfelt thank-you speeches given by the Head of our newly-formed family to both of our parents & our JP, lunch commenced. It’s a relaxed & wonderful time mingling around with our relatives & friends in the meantime having jokes & fun time with our bros & sis who gave us their tremendous support.
But I was in such a daze that I totally forgotten to take pix with my cousins & friends who left early! Was really disappointed with myself... Took more fotos with every1 & during the reception, I was pleasantly surprised to know that Terence & Uncle Soon Meng were actually ex-colleagues & they knew each other rather well!
Every now & then, I'd walk around to admire our very own Reception venue. We completely loved the whole set-up, the ambience & appreciated the presence of each guest. We’d the luxury of space as the rear where the kids played led to a somewhat lobby with sofas & water features & also to the swimming pool. I’d say I particularly love the candelabra, the aqua-blue pillar candles along the aisle & on stage, matched with the aqua-blue organza tablecloths, 2 sets of plush couches in the midst of the cocktail tables...... oopz literally everything!
More than 2 hours later, we were ready to bid our guests farewell but many of our relatives didn’t have the intention to leave yet. So we stayed around for another 15mins. After a hearty send-off, we returned to the bridal suite, only to be greeted with 2 full tables of food... hee! Well, those're our post lunch.
It’s finally over! We felt excited about our new status yet I felt a sense of loss... like I told my hubby, I missed my jie-meis very much. I missed them pampering me, having jokes & fun with them & working together. Indeed we’re really touched to see how our team helped us to make our celebration a successful 1.
Perhaps during our get-togethers, usually we’d only have the time to catch up/chill out over dinner or drinks. But during our Wedding, I felt as if we’re back to the good old days whereby we teamed up to accomplish a mission while still having lotsa fun. I felt the long-lost bond among us again...
We’ve planned to organize the 1st gathering for all our bros & sis soon... to watch our Wedding video (still awaiting anxiously the finished product!) & at the same time take it as a mini-housewarming @ our new home!
Not forgetting..... we encountered some problems upon arriving at the hotel that resulted in the dismayed Bride giving a heated dressing down to whichever staff who crossed her path be it the receptionist, concierge manager, front desk manager.... Mel commented that we should ask for 2 more complimentary bottles of champagne as compensation but told her the least we expected was an extra nite & she laughed in disbelief. True enough, without us requesting for it, the Wedding Consultant who came & apologized offered an additional nite’s stay in their Premier Suite as a gesture of apology. Some of my family members said we should ask for a discount on the total bill but we think we should be fair to them... though no doubt their negligence during our arrival was enough to tick us off, our Wedding Reception was very well-organized & the Banquet Manager who followed the both of us throughout the event was really attentive to our needs... service & food was great. They also did try to salvage by sending 2 hotel staff who waited patiently in the suite & later helped us during the tea ceremony. Previously they said they would only send up the red dates tea from the chef without accompanied attendant.
Conclusion - we do not regret at all having our Wedding @ Ritz as we know no where else would look after our needs & likes as well as Ritz did... not even come close to it. Of course it'd be perfect if there's no hiccups at all.
To those of my dear friends & cousins who have missed our Wedding or whom we’re unable to invite, with regrets, we truly hope that you’ll share our joy by reading the above recount.
Uncle Soon Meng & our videographer, Don, arrived very early. I was done in an hr… love my MAU’s work though I looked a lil too white..
All the galz were very punctual. In fact Sara & Celena arrived at the same time & were already chatting happily when they stepped into my room. Was relieved that no1 seemed left out. Guess the main reason’s that they’re all fun-loving & a crazy bunch. Hee.. But never did they forget their ‘duties’ & took very good care of me. Well, it certainly felt good to be so pampered by them!
As for the gate crashing part, they made it a breeze for my dear honey who was requested to sing a canto song. It sounded so… errr… not appealing that Sara ‘begged’ me to tell him to stop! Haha! Thereafter the unveil/present the hand bouquet part, tea ceremony to my parents, photo shoots & then he whisked me off to AMK together with the whole team.
Our dear Uncle Cheng Hwee who’s been driving for soo many years, for don’t know what reason, got lost on the road. The funniest part was all the 4 of us on the bridal car actually knew the direction back to AMK but none of us realize we’re lost until Mel who followed behind couldn’t take it & called us! Initially Mel said she didn’t know the way to AMK & followed the bridal car..who knows! She must have regretted. Ha! Our poor Sara was behind all the way too...
And Don was in Thomas’ car & they overtook us so that he could zoom in & capture us on the highway. Perhaps they were too engrossed in maintaining the speed & distance, also gotta be mindful about safety, we eventually lost them when we took an exit while they went straight. But it ended up that they were the 1st to arrive. Ha!!
Even when we’re nearing our destination, Uncle CH almost made another wrong turn & we stopped him just in time! Hmm.. all we can say’s that he’s even more nervous than us? Hehe...
Had the tea ceremony @ AMK which seemed never ending... but it’s good… in fact, the more the merrier... hee! Instead of feeling bored, we tried having some fun out of it & enjoyed the nearly 45mins process. Took many fotos with the family & relatives that made us felt like a celebrity couple. Slightly more than an hour later, we hurried off to Ritz.
It’s a mad rush after checking in.. I had to remove my gown & make-up as my MUA would appear in 10 mins. While doing the make-up, every1 around (our bros & sis/ families & some relatives) were walking in & out exploring the suite & took pix. Our bros & sis had called for room service & bought fast foods as well & were busy munching before they went down to run the show for us.
After an hour, we’re ready for 2nd tea ceremony... it’s a short 1 though. By then, our team was already down @ the Grand Gallery having briefings with the hotel staff. When the tea ceremony’s done, we cleared the suite to allow the bride to change into her gown again only leaving Ann to help out. I started to have some jitters & nearly messed up my make-up! As a result I was delayed for 1-2 minutes & Sara called several times when she didn’t see me appear...
Well, it’s a great moment to remember. There I was, totally exhilarated & keyed up yet trying to calm myself knowing my very soon to-be hubby was waiting downstairs, together with our beloved families & relatives... our close friends... all of them awaiting to give us their blessings...
We took the same lift with this friendly Caucasian who asked me "so who's the lucky guy?"... when he saw that I was nervous, he tried to calm me by saying "don't worry, you look great". Whoever he was, really thanks for his reassurance.
When I arrived at GG from the suite, they were playing All4One’s “So Much In Love”, like planned . I’d say it’s a very romantic & meaningful song to get every 1 of our mood set…
Then daddy came & stood by my side... we’re ready for the March-in. The original plan was once the song “This I Promise” started playing, Rachel would walk 1st followed by Zoe. But our lil flowergal got so scared that she seemed to be rooted to the ground, not moving an inch despite being pushed gently on her back. So if she’s not moving, Zoe would have to stay put & of coz I couldn’t make my entrance then! After more than 30 seconds, I was about to ask Zoe to hold Rachel’s hand & walk. Just then, Rachel moved her feet & walked very slowly. She looked so adorable & pitiful… I really admired her courage! Zoe did very well... being very calm & steady. So I finally made my entrance!! Just as I stepped onto the red carpet, I became real nervous again all of a sudden & I don’t know why! It didn’t help at all when my gown kept getting stuck in my shoes. Blame it on my bridal shoes with which I’ve a love-hate relationship! Being a pair of mules with a combination of transparent & white glittery straps across the feet when wearing it + the 2½-inch transparent heels, they looked utterly pretty & so “Cinderella-like”... & the 1st time I took them for a walk just 1 week before our Wedding, my feet came back badly battered with 6 plasters on each foot! But I didn’t give up... had some great ideas from buddies & got all prepped on the actual day to conquer them...! Well I succeeded as there’s no pain & blister at all, but they made it extremely difficult for me to walk an inch without having my hungry mules “chewing” on the hem of my gowns. Nevertheless, I don’t regret wearing them as they’d definitely looked beautiful when I lifted my gown & walked. Ha! What to do? Vanity rules!
Ok come back to our Wedding... when we went through the solemnization, it felt simply like a dream came true! It’s exactly what I’ve longed for in my fantasized wedding... with loved ones around, the cozy ambience elegantly themed with my fav colour... When we’re pronounced man & wife, “This I Promise” resumed & we’re totally overwhelmed with emotions… Then my hubby went back to the stage by himself & dedicated a song to me – Richie Ren’s “Ni Shi Wo Lao Po”. I then sashayed to the stage from the back when I was satisfied with his singing. Hee... It’s truly a lovely gift from my hubby! Thank you honey for trying your best to memorize & accurately pronounce the lyrics!
After some heartfelt thank-you speeches given by the Head of our newly-formed family to both of our parents & our JP, lunch commenced. It’s a relaxed & wonderful time mingling around with our relatives & friends in the meantime having jokes & fun time with our bros & sis who gave us their tremendous support.
But I was in such a daze that I totally forgotten to take pix with my cousins & friends who left early! Was really disappointed with myself... Took more fotos with every1 & during the reception, I was pleasantly surprised to know that Terence & Uncle Soon Meng were actually ex-colleagues & they knew each other rather well!
Every now & then, I'd walk around to admire our very own Reception venue. We completely loved the whole set-up, the ambience & appreciated the presence of each guest. We’d the luxury of space as the rear where the kids played led to a somewhat lobby with sofas & water features & also to the swimming pool. I’d say I particularly love the candelabra, the aqua-blue pillar candles along the aisle & on stage, matched with the aqua-blue organza tablecloths, 2 sets of plush couches in the midst of the cocktail tables...... oopz literally everything!
More than 2 hours later, we were ready to bid our guests farewell but many of our relatives didn’t have the intention to leave yet. So we stayed around for another 15mins. After a hearty send-off, we returned to the bridal suite, only to be greeted with 2 full tables of food... hee! Well, those're our post lunch.
It’s finally over! We felt excited about our new status yet I felt a sense of loss... like I told my hubby, I missed my jie-meis very much. I missed them pampering me, having jokes & fun with them & working together. Indeed we’re really touched to see how our team helped us to make our celebration a successful 1.
Perhaps during our get-togethers, usually we’d only have the time to catch up/chill out over dinner or drinks. But during our Wedding, I felt as if we’re back to the good old days whereby we teamed up to accomplish a mission while still having lotsa fun. I felt the long-lost bond among us again...
We’ve planned to organize the 1st gathering for all our bros & sis soon... to watch our Wedding video (still awaiting anxiously the finished product!) & at the same time take it as a mini-housewarming @ our new home!
Not forgetting..... we encountered some problems upon arriving at the hotel that resulted in the dismayed Bride giving a heated dressing down to whichever staff who crossed her path be it the receptionist, concierge manager, front desk manager.... Mel commented that we should ask for 2 more complimentary bottles of champagne as compensation but told her the least we expected was an extra nite & she laughed in disbelief. True enough, without us requesting for it, the Wedding Consultant who came & apologized offered an additional nite’s stay in their Premier Suite as a gesture of apology. Some of my family members said we should ask for a discount on the total bill but we think we should be fair to them... though no doubt their negligence during our arrival was enough to tick us off, our Wedding Reception was very well-organized & the Banquet Manager who followed the both of us throughout the event was really attentive to our needs... service & food was great. They also did try to salvage by sending 2 hotel staff who waited patiently in the suite & later helped us during the tea ceremony. Previously they said they would only send up the red dates tea from the chef without accompanied attendant.
Conclusion - we do not regret at all having our Wedding @ Ritz as we know no where else would look after our needs & likes as well as Ritz did... not even come close to it. Of course it'd be perfect if there's no hiccups at all.
To those of my dear friends & cousins who have missed our Wedding or whom we’re unable to invite, with regrets, we truly hope that you’ll share our joy by reading the above recount.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
The Eve
Enjoyed all the preps on our Wedding Eve though the schedule was truly hectic! It’s a mixture of feeling excited, blissful, anticipating to celebrate the long-awaited moment & fearing about last minute hiccups.
Been worrying about having last minute fire-fighting situation especially in the last few days before the big day. But everything went smooth sailing except PY who had been sick for a week running high fever & thus couldn’t make it for our wedding. And that meant… We had to find a stand-in Main Co-ord in less than 1 day! I was like “oh no… my nightmare has become a reality!!”. But I was real glad & relieved to have wonderful jie-meis around who came to our rescue. So we did a bit of reshuffling with the list – Sara, instead of taking charge of our music part, became our MC & we pulled Celena in to take care of the music. Really thanks to Celena who’s always so willing to help & doesn’t mind doing any task, be it ‘dirty’ jobs or minor ones.
Come back to the eve... as we recalled we’re surprised by the no. of things we settled in just 1 day. By the time we finally called it a day, it’s already nearing 10pm! What I remember most clearly out of the whole day’s activities was when Vince saw us off in a cab after a series of mad rush, all of a sudden I felt sad & couldn’t bear to part with him… the kinda feeling’s just like when I bade him farewell @ the airport before each of my trips. Was so used to having him around, taking care of everything for me. So told myself that I would see him again very soon, early next morning... when it would become the happiest part in my life!
On the way home, was telling Ann my 6th sense (ha! such an old-fashion word rite??) told me I’d soon be receiving a call from her aunt, who’s my mum. And true enough in less than 10 mins, mum called & started nagging that why I was still out & I needed to rest early… … … … … Actually my sis was also shocked to know that I was still on the road when she smsed me around the same time. Hee…
After reaching home, I was busy compiling the checklists, details & emailed to the 2 gals. Had tele-briefings with them & got it settled by 12. Then modified my wrist corsages… they were too huge! There’s no doubt that our dear florist wanted to prove that they’re worth every cent of the $10 per piece, in total $60! But I want my sisters to look pretty with them & not as if they’re carrying small flower pots on their wrists!! So did a bit of trimming & arrangement... At least they looked less intimidating after.
Washed my hair & showered @ about 1am. Then finalised the packing for the following day & cleared up the room. When I was finally done, it’s already close to 3am & I was supposed to be up @ 430am as my make-up artist would arrive @ 5.15am. Had a short conversation with my honey who’s also busy helping out his mum’s last minute tasks, preparing for the speech & the special item he wanted to dedicate to me.
Felt that I only had a few winks before the alarm went ringing… Same for my poor honey.
Been worrying about having last minute fire-fighting situation especially in the last few days before the big day. But everything went smooth sailing except PY who had been sick for a week running high fever & thus couldn’t make it for our wedding. And that meant… We had to find a stand-in Main Co-ord in less than 1 day! I was like “oh no… my nightmare has become a reality!!”. But I was real glad & relieved to have wonderful jie-meis around who came to our rescue. So we did a bit of reshuffling with the list – Sara, instead of taking charge of our music part, became our MC & we pulled Celena in to take care of the music. Really thanks to Celena who’s always so willing to help & doesn’t mind doing any task, be it ‘dirty’ jobs or minor ones.
Come back to the eve... as we recalled we’re surprised by the no. of things we settled in just 1 day. By the time we finally called it a day, it’s already nearing 10pm! What I remember most clearly out of the whole day’s activities was when Vince saw us off in a cab after a series of mad rush, all of a sudden I felt sad & couldn’t bear to part with him… the kinda feeling’s just like when I bade him farewell @ the airport before each of my trips. Was so used to having him around, taking care of everything for me. So told myself that I would see him again very soon, early next morning... when it would become the happiest part in my life!
On the way home, was telling Ann my 6th sense (ha! such an old-fashion word rite??) told me I’d soon be receiving a call from her aunt, who’s my mum. And true enough in less than 10 mins, mum called & started nagging that why I was still out & I needed to rest early… … … … … Actually my sis was also shocked to know that I was still on the road when she smsed me around the same time. Hee…
After reaching home, I was busy compiling the checklists, details & emailed to the 2 gals. Had tele-briefings with them & got it settled by 12. Then modified my wrist corsages… they were too huge! There’s no doubt that our dear florist wanted to prove that they’re worth every cent of the $10 per piece, in total $60! But I want my sisters to look pretty with them & not as if they’re carrying small flower pots on their wrists!! So did a bit of trimming & arrangement... At least they looked less intimidating after.
Washed my hair & showered @ about 1am. Then finalised the packing for the following day & cleared up the room. When I was finally done, it’s already close to 3am & I was supposed to be up @ 430am as my make-up artist would arrive @ 5.15am. Had a short conversation with my honey who’s also busy helping out his mum’s last minute tasks, preparing for the speech & the special item he wanted to dedicate to me.
Felt that I only had a few winks before the alarm went ringing… Same for my poor honey.
Monday, November 21, 2005
2nd part of 011105…
Just came out from a shower when we’re informed that the caterer had arrived. He’s early! So my honey went to oversee @ the rooftop while I got myself ready. Celena, who'd previously agreed to help out, was the 1st to reach. My other colleagues came very early too & they were so nice to help us put up the décor.
Perhaps I was nervous & also trotting around busy with the décor initially & thereafter with our guests, I was in a daze. I didn’t take much pix of the venue as well as with our guests. Was quite disappointed with myself… the consolation was daddy did capture some moments in his camcorder.
About the tea lights, initially they looked great floating on the pool. Claris & some of them were impressed with the whole idea & set-up. But…! we had missed out the ‘kids’ part. Just a while later, they were happily fiddling with the candles & created a mess. Good thing 1 of my ex-colleague’s son, Akira, was really sensible & helped us clear the waste at the end of the event. Hmm… so there’re still many things to learn if I aspire to be an event organizer. Hehe..
And yes, Akira liked the tea light holders that’re made of metal rings, ribbons & some flowers & he asked to bring 1 home. So happy to have 1 admirer! Haha…
We had a great time chatting with our colleagues & catching up with my former ones… a pity it’s a lil short though. As some brought their kids so they had to leave early & also most of them were working the following day… But we're very happy with the well-controlled timing because we gotta wake up very early the next day to settle lotsa errands. And not to forget, quite some time was also spent in "unwrapping the gifts". The outcome was a very pleasant surprise!
So overall it's a successful event to us!
Perhaps I was nervous & also trotting around busy with the décor initially & thereafter with our guests, I was in a daze. I didn’t take much pix of the venue as well as with our guests. Was quite disappointed with myself… the consolation was daddy did capture some moments in his camcorder.
About the tea lights, initially they looked great floating on the pool. Claris & some of them were impressed with the whole idea & set-up. But…! we had missed out the ‘kids’ part. Just a while later, they were happily fiddling with the candles & created a mess. Good thing 1 of my ex-colleague’s son, Akira, was really sensible & helped us clear the waste at the end of the event. Hmm… so there’re still many things to learn if I aspire to be an event organizer. Hehe..
And yes, Akira liked the tea light holders that’re made of metal rings, ribbons & some flowers & he asked to bring 1 home. So happy to have 1 admirer! Haha…
We had a great time chatting with our colleagues & catching up with my former ones… a pity it’s a lil short though. As some brought their kids so they had to leave early & also most of them were working the following day… But we're very happy with the well-controlled timing because we gotta wake up very early the next day to settle lotsa errands. And not to forget, quite some time was also spent in "unwrapping the gifts". The outcome was a very pleasant surprise!
So overall it's a successful event to us!
Recounting (cont'd from previous)
[011105]
Collected all the flowers in the morning. Also, last minute went in search for an ice box to chill our beer. Good thing we managed to find a very good buy at one of the shops near our place.
Went back after lunch to get everything ready – arranged the flowers/“dolled up” the tea light holders/tested the sound system & CDs again/ …
Then, our WEDDING BASH!
[021105]
Another early start off & fully occupied day. Literally ‘drop/pick up & go’ for each destination… like a courier man!
- Did some banking errands before collecting Uncle CH’s car from his place.
- Went to pay respect to Vince’s grandmum.
- Travelled all the way to IMM to get some cakes & snacks for next morning.
- Returned to RG to pick up the suit, albums etc.
- Rushed to do paraffin wax for my hands.
- Collected our wrist corsages from the florist’s work shop @ Ritz. Had a glimpse of our reception area & the guys were busy doing the flowers. We felt so so excited looking at the place which’d be our wedding venue in less than 20 hours!
- To the bridal shop. Had our dinner while watching across the road the vehicle transformed into a beautiful bridal car. Also collected my pretty hand bouquet of blue tulips. Was happy to see that it’s exactly what I wanted… been telling the designer that I didn’t want Baby Blue. So much so that she must be thinking I was such a “lor sor” bride 2b. Hee…
- Returned to AMK to drop all the stuff.
- Sent Vince’s mum to Toa Payoh to buy food for the next morning.
- Fetched Ann as she’s staying over @ our place.
- Sent the car back to Uncle CH’s place.
- Took a cab with Ann to return to RG.
- My honey went back to his parents’.
Collected all the flowers in the morning. Also, last minute went in search for an ice box to chill our beer. Good thing we managed to find a very good buy at one of the shops near our place.
Went back after lunch to get everything ready – arranged the flowers/“dolled up” the tea light holders/tested the sound system & CDs again/ …
Then, our WEDDING BASH!
[021105]
Another early start off & fully occupied day. Literally ‘drop/pick up & go’ for each destination… like a courier man!
- Did some banking errands before collecting Uncle CH’s car from his place.
- Went to pay respect to Vince’s grandmum.
- Travelled all the way to IMM to get some cakes & snacks for next morning.
- Returned to RG to pick up the suit, albums etc.
- Rushed to do paraffin wax for my hands.
- Collected our wrist corsages from the florist’s work shop @ Ritz. Had a glimpse of our reception area & the guys were busy doing the flowers. We felt so so excited looking at the place which’d be our wedding venue in less than 20 hours!
- To the bridal shop. Had our dinner while watching across the road the vehicle transformed into a beautiful bridal car. Also collected my pretty hand bouquet of blue tulips. Was happy to see that it’s exactly what I wanted… been telling the designer that I didn’t want Baby Blue. So much so that she must be thinking I was such a “lor sor” bride 2b. Hee…
- Returned to AMK to drop all the stuff.
- Sent Vince’s mum to Toa Payoh to buy food for the next morning.
- Fetched Ann as she’s staying over @ our place.
- Sent the car back to Uncle CH’s place.
- Took a cab with Ann to return to RG.
- My honey went back to his parents’.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Recounting
[281005]
Last day of work before our leave!
After work, went to collect our portrait for the reception.
Thereafter visited Gin @ Gleneagles. Lil Cedric so adorable! He’d been sleeping throughout our visit… so no chance to carry/play with him.
[291005]
Delivery of our new mattress. Good thing they’re very punctual.
Rushed to meet with our interior designer & curtain maker @ our new place, YS. Specially arranged with Centrepoint to open the unit for us to take measurements. After that, had a 2-hr+ discussion with our interior designer.
Went to Arab Street to get more WB ribbons & bought 1 kebaya. It’s really a pleasant surprise as I’ve been wanting to get a nice, plain white or black kebaya without those embroidered, assorted-coloured flowers but failed to find it or it’s way too ex. Chanced upon this 1 which totally fits the bill.. so happy! Hee… After some bargaining, it’s not ex at all!
After the FRUITFUL shopping trip to Arab Street, we went to The Furniture Mall.
In the evening, headed to Ikea as we needed to get some more tea lights & wine glasses.
[301005]
Did my acrylic nails.
It’s already late afternoon by the time I was done. It took nearly 4 hours!! My poor honey, waited next to me for so long. But he’s so cool about it.. hee! Liked the new look of my fingers but I know my honey still prefers my original, short nails… Hmmm…
Collected our gowns/suits & all other stuff.
Went out for dinner with the family shortly after returning home.
Rushed to develop some of our wedding fotos for my mum before the shop closed.
[311005]
Woke up bright & early on our first day of leave as our schedule’s so packed!
Flowers hunting… for WB, my hair & RC on actual day. Unsuccessful trips to several florists @ Yew Tee, Bukit Batok… Finally found what we wanted @ Jurong East, there’s this florist just below the station. Their flowers were real fresh & in very lovely colours. But the prices were also relatively higher than neighborhood florists. What to do? couldn’t find anywhere else… So we ordered hot pink roses, white roses & some other imported flowers (which I don't know the names) for our WB, white wax flowers for my hair on AD & blue roses to be placed around our Wedding Albums on AD.
After lunch, went for more furniture shopping @ Millenia Walk.
Last day of work before our leave!
After work, went to collect our portrait for the reception.
Thereafter visited Gin @ Gleneagles. Lil Cedric so adorable! He’d been sleeping throughout our visit… so no chance to carry/play with him.
[291005]
Delivery of our new mattress. Good thing they’re very punctual.
Rushed to meet with our interior designer & curtain maker @ our new place, YS. Specially arranged with Centrepoint to open the unit for us to take measurements. After that, had a 2-hr+ discussion with our interior designer.
Went to Arab Street to get more WB ribbons & bought 1 kebaya. It’s really a pleasant surprise as I’ve been wanting to get a nice, plain white or black kebaya without those embroidered, assorted-coloured flowers but failed to find it or it’s way too ex. Chanced upon this 1 which totally fits the bill.. so happy! Hee… After some bargaining, it’s not ex at all!
After the FRUITFUL shopping trip to Arab Street, we went to The Furniture Mall.
In the evening, headed to Ikea as we needed to get some more tea lights & wine glasses.
[301005]
Did my acrylic nails.
It’s already late afternoon by the time I was done. It took nearly 4 hours!! My poor honey, waited next to me for so long. But he’s so cool about it.. hee! Liked the new look of my fingers but I know my honey still prefers my original, short nails… Hmmm…
Collected our gowns/suits & all other stuff.
Went out for dinner with the family shortly after returning home.
Rushed to develop some of our wedding fotos for my mum before the shop closed.
[311005]
Woke up bright & early on our first day of leave as our schedule’s so packed!
Flowers hunting… for WB, my hair & RC on actual day. Unsuccessful trips to several florists @ Yew Tee, Bukit Batok… Finally found what we wanted @ Jurong East, there’s this florist just below the station. Their flowers were real fresh & in very lovely colours. But the prices were also relatively higher than neighborhood florists. What to do? couldn’t find anywhere else… So we ordered hot pink roses, white roses & some other imported flowers (which I don't know the names) for our WB, white wax flowers for my hair on AD & blue roses to be placed around our Wedding Albums on AD.
After lunch, went for more furniture shopping @ Millenia Walk.
Then my honey went to highlight his hair. Turned out to be very nice.. Received compliments from every1!
Had my spa & waxing appointment @ 4pm. Asked my then fiancé, now hubby whether he wanted to enjoy a spa treatment as well but he preferred to relax at the reception couch to wait for me.
Went to collect the sparkling wine @ my sis’ restaurant. So nice of her to have reserved a French set dinner for 2, with compliments from Vince’s sis-in-law 2b.. hehe…
(to be continued…)
Thursday, November 17, 2005
In 153 Days
Before our Wedding, we’re counting down to it every single day. It’s just like when you’re waiting for some1, time is always crawling slowly… But now that we look back, it’s a mere 5 months 2 days from the day of Proposal to the day we got married…!
We settled all the major decision-making issues like the venue, bridal shop & even my wedding gown within the 1st 2 weeks of the 5 months. Guess we’re just too excited to wait! Sometimes couldn’t believe ourselves for making so many decisions in such a short time; communications & being clear of what we wanted were the 2 main contributors. We promised each other there’s no “if only” even if those we decided on were to fail our expectation. But the marvelous thing’s that we truly never regret in our choices! The wedding venue was wonderful… decorated exactly the way we’ve wanted, we love our nicely done-up wedding pix which received much compliments & many of my friends liked my gowns.
Good thing we settled most stuff well in advance... & even so, we're so caught up with errands during the last week before our Wedding. Think prepping for our new place at the same time was the main reason.
We settled all the major decision-making issues like the venue, bridal shop & even my wedding gown within the 1st 2 weeks of the 5 months. Guess we’re just too excited to wait! Sometimes couldn’t believe ourselves for making so many decisions in such a short time; communications & being clear of what we wanted were the 2 main contributors. We promised each other there’s no “if only” even if those we decided on were to fail our expectation. But the marvelous thing’s that we truly never regret in our choices! The wedding venue was wonderful… decorated exactly the way we’ve wanted, we love our nicely done-up wedding pix which received much compliments & many of my friends liked my gowns.
Good thing we settled most stuff well in advance... & even so, we're so caught up with errands during the last week before our Wedding. Think prepping for our new place at the same time was the main reason.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
How It 1st Began
We’ve been contemplating wedding plans after the 1st year being together. Didn’t have a specific date but knew it would be some time next year. It’s only until end of last year when our family being hit by the shocking news of my daddy’s illness…
My honey has been very supportive & my only source of solace. During the initial stage when very often I would just break down & cry, he’d always hug me tightly… reassuring me that he’d hold my hands & go through it all with me. And true enough, never once did he show any slight reluctance with the added responsibilities & took care of my parents together with me....
So when he brought up the topic again one day, I was rather ready to explore it further with him.
Truly I was (still am) very touched by what he's been doing for me.... When I was suffering from hallux valgus & my feet getting more & more painful each day, he encouraged me to go for surgery. Knowing my fear & procrastination because of the inability to walk for weeks, he promised to take good care of me during my recuperation. And he really kept his promise & I should say, far beyond it. I had 2 surgeries over a period of 2½ months. Each time I was in cast for more than 1 week. Daytime my parents would cook for me & he’d be back right after work to take care of all my needs. Everyday without fail he’d get everything ready for my shower/dinner, wrap my cast with extra care to waterproof it during shower, massage my feet, carry me to the toilet & around the house (also a few times when we came back from the doctor & I didn’t have the stamina to continue with my clutches)… so I’d literally just sit there waiting to be served with anything I need. When my 2-week medical leave was over & I needed to go back to work, he slowly walked with me throughout the whole journey & sent me to the doorstep of my office & thereafter off to his. You can’t imagine how slow I walked... Even feeble old folks could overtake us! All these happened not only once… but twice & for each I took more than a month to recover. My colleagues were so impressed with his love for me & told me they could tell he really really dotes on me. I guess that was also the time my parents were totally convinced that he could take good care of me.
Before we knew of my dad’s health condition, he ever said he preferred that we stay on our own & wouldn't mind if my parents were to drop by for a couple of months. But when we were faced with taking care of my parents & related problems, he told me he wouldn’t mind having my parents living with us now that they’d sort of lived under 1 roof while taking care of me. He explained not that he prefers to do so but because he loves me & I love my parents, so he’d love them & take care of them too. I was beyond words…
What’s more can I demand from a man who adores & pampers me to this extent & is willing to go through everything with me, not only taking care of me but also my parents. He gives me the courage to fight on & it's the 1st time in my life that I feel so loved. I really can't imagine how life would be without him... having to face so much problems alone, or with some1 who's too self-centred to bear the burden with me.
Thus I was so won over by his love & we both agreed to get wed towards end of this year. Another main reason: I wanted my daddy to be around, to walk me down the aisle & to see that I’m happily married to a wonderful man.
My honey has been very supportive & my only source of solace. During the initial stage when very often I would just break down & cry, he’d always hug me tightly… reassuring me that he’d hold my hands & go through it all with me. And true enough, never once did he show any slight reluctance with the added responsibilities & took care of my parents together with me....
So when he brought up the topic again one day, I was rather ready to explore it further with him.
Truly I was (still am) very touched by what he's been doing for me.... When I was suffering from hallux valgus & my feet getting more & more painful each day, he encouraged me to go for surgery. Knowing my fear & procrastination because of the inability to walk for weeks, he promised to take good care of me during my recuperation. And he really kept his promise & I should say, far beyond it. I had 2 surgeries over a period of 2½ months. Each time I was in cast for more than 1 week. Daytime my parents would cook for me & he’d be back right after work to take care of all my needs. Everyday without fail he’d get everything ready for my shower/dinner, wrap my cast with extra care to waterproof it during shower, massage my feet, carry me to the toilet & around the house (also a few times when we came back from the doctor & I didn’t have the stamina to continue with my clutches)… so I’d literally just sit there waiting to be served with anything I need. When my 2-week medical leave was over & I needed to go back to work, he slowly walked with me throughout the whole journey & sent me to the doorstep of my office & thereafter off to his. You can’t imagine how slow I walked... Even feeble old folks could overtake us! All these happened not only once… but twice & for each I took more than a month to recover. My colleagues were so impressed with his love for me & told me they could tell he really really dotes on me. I guess that was also the time my parents were totally convinced that he could take good care of me.
Before we knew of my dad’s health condition, he ever said he preferred that we stay on our own & wouldn't mind if my parents were to drop by for a couple of months. But when we were faced with taking care of my parents & related problems, he told me he wouldn’t mind having my parents living with us now that they’d sort of lived under 1 roof while taking care of me. He explained not that he prefers to do so but because he loves me & I love my parents, so he’d love them & take care of them too. I was beyond words…
What’s more can I demand from a man who adores & pampers me to this extent & is willing to go through everything with me, not only taking care of me but also my parents. He gives me the courage to fight on & it's the 1st time in my life that I feel so loved. I really can't imagine how life would be without him... having to face so much problems alone, or with some1 who's too self-centred to bear the burden with me.
Thus I was so won over by his love & we both agreed to get wed towards end of this year. Another main reason: I wanted my daddy to be around, to walk me down the aisle & to see that I’m happily married to a wonderful man.
Amongst the many, many well wishes from our dear friends :
“… it was a beautiful wedding yesterday. Hv a great life ahead & may yr dreams turn to reality.” - Terence
“… happy for you cos Vincent can really be a good husband. Congrats!” - Claris
“I really feel very very happy that you have found such a wonderful & filial husband…... Although I have not accompanied you through all your ups & downs in life but I am glad that you have allowed me to share the happy moments with you..” - Celena
“… u looked good in that bustier gown & lovely locks…. All my heartfelt blessings once again, Mr & Mrs Soh ;)” - Esther (my pri sch classmate & a very sweet friend now)
“… tomoro u’ll be the bride liao. Hv a gd nite rest & look beautiful tomoro! May u hv a blessed marriage…” - Gin (my xiao-mei who missed our wedding & sms us the night before)
“… happy for you cos Vincent can really be a good husband. Congrats!” - Claris
“I really feel very very happy that you have found such a wonderful & filial husband…... Although I have not accompanied you through all your ups & downs in life but I am glad that you have allowed me to share the happy moments with you..” - Celena
“… u looked good in that bustier gown & lovely locks…. All my heartfelt blessings once again, Mr & Mrs Soh ;)” - Esther (my pri sch classmate & a very sweet friend now)
“… tomoro u’ll be the bride liao. Hv a gd nite rest & look beautiful tomoro! May u hv a blessed marriage…” - Gin (my xiao-mei who missed our wedding & sms us the night before)
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
BRB !
Haven’t been able to recount what happened during our bash & actual wedding as we’re just too OVERWHELMED!! It’s not a bad thing though, hee…
Been busy with the housing stuff almost immediately after our wedding. And yes! We’ve finally, officially become the owners of our new home last Fri after the handing over of keys by Centrepoint @ 3.30pm! Yeaaaah!!!
Some minor renovations & electrical works are in progress now... which explains why we’ve been so occupied lately with meetings with our interior designer, shopping for furniture/lightings/electrical appliances & many other miscellaneous installations as well as co-ordinating the delivery of all we’ve purchased.
So, BRB!
Been busy with the housing stuff almost immediately after our wedding. And yes! We’ve finally, officially become the owners of our new home last Fri after the handing over of keys by Centrepoint @ 3.30pm! Yeaaaah!!!
Some minor renovations & electrical works are in progress now... which explains why we’ve been so occupied lately with meetings with our interior designer, shopping for furniture/lightings/electrical appliances & many other miscellaneous installations as well as co-ordinating the delivery of all we’ve purchased.
So, BRB!
Ooopz!
Was waiting for my groom. Didn't discover I was being snapped with a series of expressions while talking to my gang... rather unglam huh? Well can't recall at all what we're chatting about... below are just assumptions & some laughs for all our friends.. Heehe..
Ehehehe... I'm ready!
Yep! He's arriving very soon..
How to sabo him?!
???
Hmmm... lemme think...
Huh?! Like that also can ar...?
The most I'll use my 'secret weapon' to rescue my honey lor...
Hee! Hee! Hee....!
No no no! I didn't say anything!
Ehehehe... I'm ready!
Yep! He's arriving very soon..
How to sabo him?!
???
Hmmm... lemme think...
Huh?! Like that also can ar...?
The most I'll use my 'secret weapon' to rescue my honey lor...
Hee! Hee! Hee....!
No no no! I didn't say anything!
Monday, November 14, 2005
Many many thanks to ......
.... our brothers + sisters for all their help & support!
.... Uncle Chen Hwee for lending us his RX300 & rushing back to drive the bridal car without taking any sleep.
.... Uncle Soon Meng for being our Photographer despite his hectic travelling schedules. In fact he'd just returned 2 days before our Wedding from a 3-week trip to the US & was still suffering from jetlag then.
.... our pretty & adorable flowergalz! Really appreciate their courage in walking the aisle by themselves.
.... Ritz for realising our Dream Wedding & the extra 1-nite stay! ;)
Our Wedding on 031105 (Final Segment)
Special item by my beloved hubby :)
Made my way to him from the back only when I was satisfied with his singing. Hehe!
Lunch commenced.
During meal time ...
Lil
Carmen guarding her 2 boxes of chocs :>
Our Main Co-ordinator + 'part-time' photographer, Sara
Our Emcee, Melissa
Popping the champagne!
I got so excited watching how the champagne flowed & filled up the glasses!
No pix taken during toasting & bouquet tossing as... our photographer was off duty!
Good thing we've the video though it's still under "Work In Progress".
Waltzing to "When A Man Loves A Woman", our 1st dance.
A great moment to remember... Vince dancing with his mum & me with daddy.
More pix!!
With our families & relatives.
My (now our) very good friend, Terence.
My 2 colleagues & great friends:
- Our music coord, Celena
- Claris
With Wendy & hubby... & their junior in her tummy ;>
She's a wonderful friend who shares all my joy & woes.
Love this!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Our Wedding on 031105 (Segment IV)
While waiting for the bride.
The guests took more pictures while waiting
Very nice pic Vince had with his siblings. Every1's dressed to the occasion... definitely not a daily kinda scene ;)
My dear flowergalz were all jittery... esp the younger 1.
The clock's clicking closer & closer to the moment...
The groom, after being informed that his bride had just left the bridal suite, was waiting anxiously at the end of the red carpet (with white rose petals!).
The song "So Much In Love" played on when I arrived but out of everybody's sight.
TIS THE TIME FINALLY!!!Gotta applaud lil Rachel's bravery... she's sooo scared! Supposed to walk down the aisle once they started playing "This I Promise" but she just froze right there, haha! Every1's getting worried that I'd not be able to walk in if there's no movement. After more than 30secs, Rachel finally lifted her wobbly feet & moved forward, with her back hunched, the posy being held tightly to her chin & chest.
This is her in a more steady form after some warming up...
Yeaah! I made my entrance!!
Was very nervous for dunno-why... so held on to daddy tightly! Hee!
The handing over took place.
Both sis & I felt it's been a looong time since we last saw daddy smile like this...
Solemnisation in progress.Our Justice of Peace is a very nice gentleman... stayed throughout the reception & shared our joy.
Exchange of rings.
"Let me present to you: Mr & Mrs Soh!!"
Receiving blessings from every1!
From the back
Our Wedding on 031105 (Segment III)
Okie!! We're ready for the 2nd round of tea ceremony!
A beautiful bouquet of white roses (the same fleurs used for our reception) from Ritz delivered to our bridal suite.
The cocktail dress solely for tea ceremony... so, it's literally a 'tea dress'. Love the colour + design! My MIL, some relatives & friends complained they didn't get to see me in it.
Tis the front... feedback I got: simple & elegant. Pic taken with sis & her hubby.
Realise I've not taken the full length of my dress... good thing my dear cousin took some shots. 3/4 view is better than none lah... hehe!
Meanwhile watz happening downstairs @ the Grand Gallery ..........
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