Big question here. As a modern and working adult, my answer is definitely NO.
Since I'm a Chinese, I'm only basing on Chinese wedding and my answer is still NO.
Some
may bring up the question. "Most of the guests whom are coming to the
reception are my parents friends, why should it be me who pay for the
wedding? They are the one who wanted the reception so they could invite
their friends, not me"
One word for you, SELFISH.
Parents
may help out on your wedding, parents may voluntarily sponsor your
wedding but you shouldn't have your parents to fund your wedding, you
spoiled brat. Mind my words. I don't agree with such thoughts.
Parents
have been raising us up thus far. Come on, now they even have to pay
for your wedding? Wedding or marriage is something that signifies that
you're adult and mature enough to have a family of your own. Your
responsibility and commitment are in question here. Yeah, just keep
getting baby-ed and you'll forever never be able to grow up.
I'm
sure no parents would want to choke their children in their budget.
Discuss with your parents. Unless you yourself also invite your friends
and wanted a posh venue for your wedding, then I guess there's the price
to pay.
Living in the city, venues for wedding
reception doesn't come cheap. Especially with Chinese wedding where the
price ends with 88. It would be like RM 888++, RM 988++, RM1,288++ per
table kind of value and most of them requires a minimum amount of table.
The least I've encountered so far was 20 tables to book a private
"hall". For an RM 888++ per table * 20 (minimum), you'll end up with
total of RM 17,760. THAT is only the minimal you'll have to pay for
table price. Imagine if you wish to add alcohol drinks, that would
easily total up to 20k for a reception. That bill obviously excludes
your pre-wedding preparation costs and other fancy things you want to
add on.
If you think your parents should also cover
your pre-wedding preparation costs, just one piece of advice personally
from me to you, don't reproduce. You'll end up in more debt. Who is
going to clear that for you? Your parents? That's YOUR direct family
already. How spoiled can you be.
If you're financially tight for wedding, cut cost.
Here's my opinion:
1. Research and find a decent priced venue for your wedding.
While
the restaurants mostly priced at similar range, you can still find
restaurant which has more to offer in their wedding package. For example
package that includes complimentary alcohol or complimentary emcee,
free flow of drinks, more flexibility on the tables you requested, etc.
Things like this more or less could save some of your budget.
2. Ditch the pre-wedding photography
While
it's nice to take a pre-wedding photography (especially for ladies),
that is, you'll get to wear the gown of your choice and flaunt the model
in you and be the star of the day; it's really an expensive cost.
Hiring a photographer and renting wedding gown and all could easily cost
you RM 3k. The package from bridal shop which usually includes photo
albums, are just there soon to collect dust. How often would you look
back at the book? It's been more than a year, I don't look back at it.
You can save this budget and do a low budget photography instead if
you're planning to display this later in the reception. Borrow a DSLR
and tripod from a friend or even just a normal camera on your smartphone
and take casual happy picture of both of you. I think that's even more
hipster!
3. Have a small reception.
Just between families and close friends. Period.
4. Have a budget sheet that you can refer back how much you've spent.
This
works psychologically. Set a maximum budget you can afford for the
WHOLE wedding. Each time you purchased something for your wedding,
deduct that from your budget. That includes the pre wedding stuff and
customary items and the wedding reception. Roughly list out what you may
need before your start purchasing and set an "expected" budget on it
and if the actual cost exceeds the expected budget, something else gotta
have to be sacrificed.
It may sound naggy that I may have repeated myself in one of the posts but my family is currently planning for a wedding and I got stressed out. Since I just had my wedding recently, my family members are asking me for advice and some of the thoughts are just ridiculous that I need somewhere to vent it out.
Wedding is indeed expensive, so be careful with it and I'm sure if there's a well plan, debts can be avoided to make the wedding a success.
Showing posts with label preparation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label preparation. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
KKIA vs GH vs Private hospital
Ever since I got high BP measurement, I was referred to the government hospital (GH) and now, I have a file opened there. A record - a bad record I would say.
Anyway, all these 3 places has a slight different procedure. I'll do a simple routine comparison in this post.
KKIA(Gombak):
- Wasn't able to do a routine kind of checkup here since I was there most likely to see specialist. Let's see how it goes in my next appointment. But as far as I can tell, the procedure are:
But I guess if you're not at risk of anything, you probably won't be referred to GH. Maybe.
Private hospital (Columbia Asia Hospital):
There you go. This routine, however, is location specific. I do not know what other hospitals or clinic routine may be. So this is only based on my experiences. Feel free to share your routine at the places you do your check ups!
Anyway, all these 3 places has a slight different procedure. I'll do a simple routine comparison in this post.
KKIA(Gombak):
- Come on the appointment date and time (earlier is preferable)
- Put the pink book into basket that indicates the appointment time respectively
- Wait for nurse to call your name
- Pay RM1 and wait for your number to be called
- Meanwhile, get your urine tested. Container will be provided.
- Place the urine sample on a laboratory window and wait for nurse on duty to get to the lab
- Once the nurse tested the urine, collect the bottle yourself and dispose both urine and bottle
- Get the piece of paper from the nurse on duty to indicate if the test is positive or negative
- Continue to wait for your number to be called to nurse's room
- At nurse's room, weigh, measure blood pressure, check hemoglobin level, check baby's heart rate, womb measurement, get vitamins and listen to nurse's advice. Done.
- Wasn't able to do a routine kind of checkup here since I was there most likely to see specialist.
- Come on the appointment date and time (way earlier is preferable)
- With your pink book,put it into basket provided and wait for your name to be called
- You will be given ticket number, then directed for urine testing then BP testing
- Then make payment at cashier counter
- See doctor
But I guess if you're not at risk of anything, you probably won't be referred to GH. Maybe.
Private hospital (Columbia Asia Hospital):
- Register yourself at administration counter
- Wait for nurses to call for weight and urine test.
- Wait for nurse to call to see doctor. - done.
There you go. This routine, however, is location specific. I do not know what other hospitals or clinic routine may be. So this is only based on my experiences. Feel free to share your routine at the places you do your check ups!
Monday, August 14, 2017
What to pack into maternity bag
Once you hit the 8th month of your pregnancy, tt's any time now for delivery. You have to be ready by now. You'll never know when your baby decides to greet the world! Start packing your maternity bag for preparation. But how big should you pack your maternity bag? I have that question running in my head few weeks back and I've been reading guide on what to pack. I'm the kind of person who like to pack minimal but enough of needs in one bag.
First, choose a bag. I was thinking just to bring a bagpack initially but I manage to get a free maternity bag from diapers purchase on the last baby fair (hooray), so I use that bag instead.
Essentials to put in. What I have in my bag are:
For mother (me) :
- Maternity pad
- Disposable panties
- Toiletries & towel
- After delivery (discharge) clothes. (Pack maternity clothes instead. The bump may still be there but smaller.)
- Phone charger - I have yet to pack this since I'm still using it at home. Will probably pack my spare powerbank instead of charger)
For baby:
- Newborn diapers
- Towel
- One or two sets of newborn clothes (also mittens, booties and cap)
- Baby shampoo
- Baby wipes
- Swaddle
These are the few minimal items that I can think of to pack into the bag. IF I google online, there are tonnes of things to be packed, that includes chapstick, mask sheet, book, camera, etc.
Of course, if you want to, you can also pack these into the bag although it depends on the hospital if the items are allowed, especially camera.
Once you got these items packed into your bag, make sure to put it aside at somewhere visible or somewhere you could remember. Or better yet, my nurse advise me to put it straight into the car. But I don't feel comfortable to put my bag into the car just in case the heat of the sun may damage them. In any case, I've also informed my husband where it is placed, so if we really forgot about it when we heading towards the hospital in a rush, he can return and grab them quickly.
First, choose a bag. I was thinking just to bring a bagpack initially but I manage to get a free maternity bag from diapers purchase on the last baby fair (hooray), so I use that bag instead.
Essentials to put in. What I have in my bag are:
For mother (me) :
- Maternity pad
- Disposable panties
- Toiletries & towel
- After delivery (discharge) clothes. (Pack maternity clothes instead. The bump may still be there but smaller.)
- Phone charger - I have yet to pack this since I'm still using it at home. Will probably pack my spare powerbank instead of charger)
For baby:
- Newborn diapers
- Towel
- One or two sets of newborn clothes (also mittens, booties and cap)
- Baby shampoo
- Baby wipes
- Swaddle
These are the few minimal items that I can think of to pack into the bag. IF I google online, there are tonnes of things to be packed, that includes chapstick, mask sheet, book, camera, etc.
Of course, if you want to, you can also pack these into the bag although it depends on the hospital if the items are allowed, especially camera.
Once you got these items packed into your bag, make sure to put it aside at somewhere visible or somewhere you could remember. Or better yet, my nurse advise me to put it straight into the car. But I don't feel comfortable to put my bag into the car just in case the heat of the sun may damage them. In any case, I've also informed my husband where it is placed, so if we really forgot about it when we heading towards the hospital in a rush, he can return and grab them quickly.
Monday, July 31, 2017
Preparation for parenthood
Wedding is finally over and now both of you are preparing to be parents! How exciting when you first got that home pregnancy test showing positive! Congratulations!
Alright, what's next?
This is entirely my own experience, now that I'm 30~31 weeks in pregnancy, I would like to share with you readers especially readers from Malaysia.
We're considered the lucky bunch because our government's medical facility has improved over time and giving us a lot of aid and subsidies for medication and check ups.
Going back and forth with both private hospital and government clinic so far, I would love to share my experience with you, especially first time mothers like me. *shy*
Both my hubby and I were excited the moment we've confirmed that I'm pregnant. We did multiple home pregnancy test from the basic stick to digital. Finally when the digital test kit showing that I'm pregnant, I got mixed feelings. "Yay! But what should I do next?"
According to Chinese taboo, you shouldn't share the news of the pregnancy until you're done with the first trimester. What they believe is that by telling the whole world that you're pregnant, you may "scare" the baby spirit thus causing miscarriage. Not being a very superstitious myself, I find myself still fall back to such taboo and thus hiding the news from my siblings and friends until the 3rd month had passed. Of course I did some research too if there's logic behind it. It is said that the first trimester of pregnancy is often the risky one whereby chances of miscarriage is higher therefore if you've told others that you're pregnant, the hardship may even be greater when you need to share the bad news of losing the baby.
So both hubby and I decided to only share the joy with our parents. We didn't know what to do then. The following day, we went to private hospital nearby for check up. The scan showed I was 5weeks pregnant (according to my LMP -Last menstration period) but the doctor couldn't scan much about it as it was still just a dot in the womb.
We went home with joy nevertheless and got folic acid to reduce the risk of neural tube defects on the baby. We were told by doctor that usually before getting pregnant, the mother is advised to take folic acid too to cut down the chances for neural defects baby. We were lucky to be able to see the doctor, according to my brother, some hospital require you to make an appointment 2 months in advance!
My next visit was 3weeks later when I'm 8 weeks pregnant to scan for heartbeat. Indeed, we can see flickering in the womb and hear the heartbeating. I teared. Doctor also prescribed me vitamins to take to help increase the supplements needed for the baby.
When I'm 3months pregnant, we finally break the news to our siblings and relatives and friends. It was interesting to see their reaction especially when I broke the news on April's fool day.
My sister in law recommended us to open a pink book with the government clinic, known as KKIA (Klinik Kesihatan Ibu & Anak), Where the check up is very much cheaper and our baby's vaccination will be free compared to private which charges about RM 200 for each shot.
You cannot go to just any KKIA to do check up, you have to find out which KKIA is handling your district otherwise, they will not handle your case. When hubby and I first got to the KKIA we were directed to, we couldn't do a walk in. We'll need to set an appointment with the nurse and come again another day. You'll need to remember to bring the following:
- Your IC
- Spouse IC
- Marriage certificate
- Utilities bill
I got scolded by the nurse for seeing them so late. When I'm already 3 months into pregnancy. They said I should have come earlier. Well, I didn't know earlier, now I do...Well, suck it in... I read elsewhere that the ideal time to come is when you're 10 weeks pregnant. I also heard some going in at 8 weeks. So... I'm not sure on this.
Came to the appointment as early as recommended by the nurse and finally open my first pink book (buku merah). The clinic was crowded. But they follow ticketing numbers so that was quite organised. First timers will be asked all sorts of questions like family medical history, LMP, and the usual urine and hemoglobin test (each visit) and after some briefing and advices, I finally got my pink book!
Ever since then, I went for both private and government clinic for checkup. It's tiring especially when the government clinic only operates on working hours and the time slot that I got is usually 8am.
I like the government clinic checks. They are more thorough. Each time you visit, you'll have to do a urine test, blood pressure test, hemoglobin count test, weight check and you'll get free obimin vitamins! All you have to do is to pay RM1 for the processing fee. But the downside is that you wont get scanned by the doctor on each visit. Only on certain appointments. If you don't mind that, I suggest you to only go for government clinic's. Although you may have to persevere in the infamous long wait.
Private is more expensive, every check they do and every prescription they gave is bound for charges. I often got charged closed to RM200 each time I made a visit to private hospital even without the prescription. But the bright side is that they operates on weekend as well (depends on which hospital) and their service is much faster. My advice though. Do get your questions prepared. Whether you got less questions or more questions you'll still be charged for consultancy, and it's not cheap.
There you go. It's up to you whether you want to opt for government or private. To me, it's all about the budget you have and the service you prefer.
Alright, what's next?
This is entirely my own experience, now that I'm 30~31 weeks in pregnancy, I would like to share with you readers especially readers from Malaysia.
We're considered the lucky bunch because our government's medical facility has improved over time and giving us a lot of aid and subsidies for medication and check ups.
Going back and forth with both private hospital and government clinic so far, I would love to share my experience with you, especially first time mothers like me. *shy*
Both my hubby and I were excited the moment we've confirmed that I'm pregnant. We did multiple home pregnancy test from the basic stick to digital. Finally when the digital test kit showing that I'm pregnant, I got mixed feelings. "Yay! But what should I do next?"
According to Chinese taboo, you shouldn't share the news of the pregnancy until you're done with the first trimester. What they believe is that by telling the whole world that you're pregnant, you may "scare" the baby spirit thus causing miscarriage. Not being a very superstitious myself, I find myself still fall back to such taboo and thus hiding the news from my siblings and friends until the 3rd month had passed. Of course I did some research too if there's logic behind it. It is said that the first trimester of pregnancy is often the risky one whereby chances of miscarriage is higher therefore if you've told others that you're pregnant, the hardship may even be greater when you need to share the bad news of losing the baby.
So both hubby and I decided to only share the joy with our parents. We didn't know what to do then. The following day, we went to private hospital nearby for check up. The scan showed I was 5weeks pregnant (according to my LMP -Last menstration period) but the doctor couldn't scan much about it as it was still just a dot in the womb.
 |
| At 5 weeks. |
My next visit was 3weeks later when I'm 8 weeks pregnant to scan for heartbeat. Indeed, we can see flickering in the womb and hear the heartbeating. I teared. Doctor also prescribed me vitamins to take to help increase the supplements needed for the baby.
When I'm 3months pregnant, we finally break the news to our siblings and relatives and friends. It was interesting to see their reaction especially when I broke the news on April's fool day.
My sister in law recommended us to open a pink book with the government clinic, known as KKIA (Klinik Kesihatan Ibu & Anak), Where the check up is very much cheaper and our baby's vaccination will be free compared to private which charges about RM 200 for each shot.
You cannot go to just any KKIA to do check up, you have to find out which KKIA is handling your district otherwise, they will not handle your case. When hubby and I first got to the KKIA we were directed to, we couldn't do a walk in. We'll need to set an appointment with the nurse and come again another day. You'll need to remember to bring the following:
- Your IC
- Spouse IC
- Marriage certificate
- Utilities bill
I got scolded by the nurse for seeing them so late. When I'm already 3 months into pregnancy. They said I should have come earlier. Well, I didn't know earlier, now I do...Well, suck it in... I read elsewhere that the ideal time to come is when you're 10 weeks pregnant. I also heard some going in at 8 weeks. So... I'm not sure on this.
 | |||
| Should have taken the picture when it's a new book; anyway, if you're fit, the sticker would be green instead of yellow. |
If you're wondering why there's a yellow sticker, it's because I got a high bp record just lately in my 3rd trimester.
Ever since then, I went for both private and government clinic for checkup. It's tiring especially when the government clinic only operates on working hours and the time slot that I got is usually 8am.
I like the government clinic checks. They are more thorough. Each time you visit, you'll have to do a urine test, blood pressure test, hemoglobin count test, weight check and you'll get free obimin vitamins! All you have to do is to pay RM1 for the processing fee. But the downside is that you wont get scanned by the doctor on each visit. Only on certain appointments. If you don't mind that, I suggest you to only go for government clinic's. Although you may have to persevere in the infamous long wait.
Private is more expensive, every check they do and every prescription they gave is bound for charges. I often got charged closed to RM200 each time I made a visit to private hospital even without the prescription. But the bright side is that they operates on weekend as well (depends on which hospital) and their service is much faster. My advice though. Do get your questions prepared. Whether you got less questions or more questions you'll still be charged for consultancy, and it's not cheap.
There you go. It's up to you whether you want to opt for government or private. To me, it's all about the budget you have and the service you prefer.
Friday, July 7, 2017
Part 1: Review on Wedding Banquet @ Crystal Crown, PJ
In short: Hell of an experience.
Long story ahead. Spare me some time if you're planning to read ahead and tell me what's your opinion on it if you've ever had experience with Chinese wedding banquet there.
I'll split it to 3 parts. Before, during and post-event.
We signed up with their banquet package at the wedding fair and our person in charge was Sandy.
Regarding the ballroom (review at first sight): It has the capacity to fit 50 tables (so they claimed) - We fit 32 and it seemed quite pack. There are 2 mirrored pillars at the center of the hall. There is upper deck to fit another 5 tables, but we didn't use it. A huge stage in front with 2 sides back room for backstage preparation. Kitchen is at the back of the ballroom (opposite the stage). Audio room is placed is situated at the upper deck. Podium is next to the stage. Not sure if it matters, but the communication with the audio manager would be a little tricky.
All was fine and I'm very very satisfied with Sandy's service. She keep us informed and update us on details and was very punctual and patient. Our negotiation of wedding preparation and all that we need to know from the hotel side, (obviously it's our first time to have a wedding banquet) we were filled with information. Sandy find out and update us very promptly. We had a few meeting and during the meeting there was some awkward pause for us couple to think of questions to ask about, Sandy would keep smiling and told us to take our time. Plus, she's always by her email and whatsapp.
Unfortunately but good news for her, she's getting married too and her date falls a week or two after ours. So therefore, she no longer able to be in charge of our event since she will be on long leave to prepare for her own.We were passed on to a colleague of hers.
Having the impression that Sandy was such an excellent staff to deal with, we have the same expectation on her colleague. I'll not name this colleague but let's call her "staff A".
The first time I met with staff A was when I'm collecting my wedding card during my lunch time. Minor cookie point minus, staff A seems to be in rush when I was collecting my cards. Obviously, I'll need to double check the cards and quantity when I receive them. Staff A looks uninterested and keep asking if I still have anything needed from her. I told her, "Not at the moment, but I'll need to double check the cards". Yes, there are 100 over pieces of cards. I did not count/check all anyway, I just took some randomly to check the spelling and design. Well, at least a good gesture was that staff A asked if I had my lunch (not sure if she was going to invite me for lunch, though) but I told her I need to head back to work. Staff A asked again if I needed anything from her. Eventually I told her no and she left. Staff A left before the customer. Okay, maybe no biggy but as a customer sales representative, I would expect her to place customer first.
We had a few questions to the management or rather regarding to the event later on where we usually communicate via staff A's corporate email. It took longer time to get back to us and sometimes it doesn't even answer all of our questions. For example, we emailed in the morning at 10am, staff A only gets back to us at 5pm. By the time we responded to the email at 5:30pm, the next reply would be the next day. Which we assume it's because it's already office hours.
Then we have more inquiries to staff A/banquet related.
We could have communicated via Whatsapp too, but we since our questions were quite many, we thought it was easier to have it via email and also for reference later. There was no email reply one week later. When we message staff A via whatsapp, we were only then informed that staff A was on leave and there was no other staff to be in charge meantime. When staff A was back on the next day, staff A claimed that there was no email from us. Well, clearly for us that the email has went through. I checked my sent email. Not sure where the mistake has gone.
Side note, there's no discount rate for room just because you're doing your wedding there. The rates that were given by staff A is similar to what I can find exactly from their hotel webpage. Disappointed.
Few days before our wedding, we have a walkthrough to make sure everything is in place. So we've meet up with staff A again.We've clearly mentioned earlier in one of our discussion that we wanted cream colored chair cover due to probable of old people's superstition that white/black is bad color.
On the day of rehearsal, the ballroom was filled with white covered chair. Okay... We can't change from that since there are no more stock for cream covers and we weren't informed earlier? The placement of the tables are also far off from the hall plan that they have provided. 2 of the tables were too close to the kitchen entrance and it perhaps would block the servers' access . Shouldn't they have thought that through?
Plan that was sent to us:
What was the actual plan:
Honestly, how can this ballroom fit 50 tables? :x
While we were rehearsing, staff A left before us again. Of course, given the benefit of doubt, staff A let us have our time to do rehearsal as long as we want. (But what if we still have things we want to clarify? That day being a Friday and staff A is off duty on Saturday. Sunday is our reception day already) Regarding the parking, staff A told us that we could verify our tickets over the concierge and we only have to mention staff A's name for reference.
We left at about 8pm plus and head over to concierge as told to verify our tickets.
To our surprise, the staff over the counter rejected our validation. She told us they weren't informed about it and we couldn't do so. I mentioned staff A's name and that we could refer her. Concierge staff called their supervisor/manager then and explained the situation. To our disgust, the manager sounds upset and said "Just give them lah". The tone that he said it was as if we were desperate beggars asking for money and they were forced to validate so that we would stop pestering them.
What? This is our right as customers and we were even told that we could do so.
Bad customer service of a front counter. I wonder how could they place them as the hotel's front person.
Part 2: Review on Wedding Banquet @ Crystal Crown PJ
Part 3: Review on Wedding Banquet @ Crystal Crown PJ
Long story ahead. Spare me some time if you're planning to read ahead and tell me what's your opinion on it if you've ever had experience with Chinese wedding banquet there.
I'll split it to 3 parts. Before, during and post-event.
PART 1:
We signed up with their banquet package at the wedding fair and our person in charge was Sandy.
Regarding the ballroom (review at first sight): It has the capacity to fit 50 tables (so they claimed) - We fit 32 and it seemed quite pack. There are 2 mirrored pillars at the center of the hall. There is upper deck to fit another 5 tables, but we didn't use it. A huge stage in front with 2 sides back room for backstage preparation. Kitchen is at the back of the ballroom (opposite the stage). Audio room is placed is situated at the upper deck. Podium is next to the stage. Not sure if it matters, but the communication with the audio manager would be a little tricky.
All was fine and I'm very very satisfied with Sandy's service. She keep us informed and update us on details and was very punctual and patient. Our negotiation of wedding preparation and all that we need to know from the hotel side, (obviously it's our first time to have a wedding banquet) we were filled with information. Sandy find out and update us very promptly. We had a few meeting and during the meeting there was some awkward pause for us couple to think of questions to ask about, Sandy would keep smiling and told us to take our time. Plus, she's always by her email and whatsapp.
Unfortunately but good news for her, she's getting married too and her date falls a week or two after ours. So therefore, she no longer able to be in charge of our event since she will be on long leave to prepare for her own.We were passed on to a colleague of hers.
Having the impression that Sandy was such an excellent staff to deal with, we have the same expectation on her colleague. I'll not name this colleague but let's call her "staff A".
The first time I met with staff A was when I'm collecting my wedding card during my lunch time. Minor cookie point minus, staff A seems to be in rush when I was collecting my cards. Obviously, I'll need to double check the cards and quantity when I receive them. Staff A looks uninterested and keep asking if I still have anything needed from her. I told her, "Not at the moment, but I'll need to double check the cards". Yes, there are 100 over pieces of cards. I did not count/check all anyway, I just took some randomly to check the spelling and design. Well, at least a good gesture was that staff A asked if I had my lunch (not sure if she was going to invite me for lunch, though) but I told her I need to head back to work. Staff A asked again if I needed anything from her. Eventually I told her no and she left. Staff A left before the customer. Okay, maybe no biggy but as a customer sales representative, I would expect her to place customer first.
We had a few questions to the management or rather regarding to the event later on where we usually communicate via staff A's corporate email. It took longer time to get back to us and sometimes it doesn't even answer all of our questions. For example, we emailed in the morning at 10am, staff A only gets back to us at 5pm. By the time we responded to the email at 5:30pm, the next reply would be the next day. Which we assume it's because it's already office hours.
Then we have more inquiries to staff A/banquet related.
We could have communicated via Whatsapp too, but we since our questions were quite many, we thought it was easier to have it via email and also for reference later. There was no email reply one week later. When we message staff A via whatsapp, we were only then informed that staff A was on leave and there was no other staff to be in charge meantime. When staff A was back on the next day, staff A claimed that there was no email from us. Well, clearly for us that the email has went through. I checked my sent email. Not sure where the mistake has gone.
Side note, there's no discount rate for room just because you're doing your wedding there. The rates that were given by staff A is similar to what I can find exactly from their hotel webpage. Disappointed.
Few days before our wedding, we have a walkthrough to make sure everything is in place. So we've meet up with staff A again.We've clearly mentioned earlier in one of our discussion that we wanted cream colored chair cover due to probable of old people's superstition that white/black is bad color.
 |
| screenshot from our email conversation |
On the day of rehearsal, the ballroom was filled with white covered chair. Okay... We can't change from that since there are no more stock for cream covers and we weren't informed earlier? The placement of the tables are also far off from the hall plan that they have provided. 2 of the tables were too close to the kitchen entrance and it perhaps would block the servers' access . Shouldn't they have thought that through?
Plan that was sent to us:
What was the actual plan:
Honestly, how can this ballroom fit 50 tables? :x
While we were rehearsing, staff A left before us again. Of course, given the benefit of doubt, staff A let us have our time to do rehearsal as long as we want. (But what if we still have things we want to clarify? That day being a Friday and staff A is off duty on Saturday. Sunday is our reception day already) Regarding the parking, staff A told us that we could verify our tickets over the concierge and we only have to mention staff A's name for reference.
We left at about 8pm plus and head over to concierge as told to verify our tickets.
To our surprise, the staff over the counter rejected our validation. She told us they weren't informed about it and we couldn't do so. I mentioned staff A's name and that we could refer her. Concierge staff called their supervisor/manager then and explained the situation. To our disgust, the manager sounds upset and said "Just give them lah". The tone that he said it was as if we were desperate beggars asking for money and they were forced to validate so that we would stop pestering them.
What? This is our right as customers and we were even told that we could do so.
Bad customer service of a front counter. I wonder how could they place them as the hotel's front person.
Part 2: Review on Wedding Banquet @ Crystal Crown PJ
Part 3: Review on Wedding Banquet @ Crystal Crown PJ
Tuesday, July 4, 2017
Wedding reception
If you're like us, having the ceremony in the morning and wedding reception during the dinner, then you can refer to our experience. I wouldn't say this as a guide since all the variables could be different.
But one thing for sure, I DO NOT RECOMMEND DOING WEDDING BANQUET AT CRYSTAL CROWN HOTEL, PJ.
I'll explain why I said that in another post. In short, it gave us a bad experience and on our special day? Really? bah..
Depending on where you gonna held your wedding reception, be there earlier to make sure everything is prepared. Your bridesmaids and groomsmen may also be there earlier to help check things out.
The bride may be preoccupied to redo her make up and dress up, so the groom is the only hope to run back and forth to do the preparation (boy, am I glad to get help from all of them). The bride will most likely got stuck in the room until the reception time actually starts, depends on what time your MUA will arrive, so do check the updates with her. Let her know in advance how many person will need to do make up for the reception so she can estimate her time.
While I was in the room doing my preparation, Jon was already at the ballroom ushering and greeting our guests. Checking things with the banquet manager. Make sure to assign receptionist and make sure they are also there early.
Once the bride is done, you'll go to the ballroom to greet the guests, take some photos,
but do be wary of the time when the actual reception suppose to start. Get your emcee to be your timekeeper.
Once the program actually starts, bride and groom will have to be ready at the entrance to do the significant march in later.
Nothing much I could comment on here as the dinner reception is pretty basic. But I'll just share with everyone my program flow because I too wanted to look for reference back then... Assuming the dinner should start at 8pm sharp and depending of the set of gowns that the bride will have to change, I had 3 sets. It's tiring. Just go with 2 at most...IMHO
7-7:45pm - Arrival of guests (our guests actually arrives at 6:30pm)
7:35pm - Bride change gown
7:55pm - Emcee plays proposal video of the newlywed
8:00pm - Emcee introduction + couple march in
8:15pm - First dish serve
8:20pm - Plays Tea ceremony session video
8:30pm - Bride change to next set of gown, meantime emcee plays Prewed photoshoot montage
8:45pm - Cake cutting and Toasting session and some speech
9:30pm - Couple goes around the table for toasting
11:00pm - End
It was tiring but indeed an experience to us.
But one thing for sure, I DO NOT RECOMMEND DOING WEDDING BANQUET AT CRYSTAL CROWN HOTEL, PJ.
I'll explain why I said that in another post. In short, it gave us a bad experience and on our special day? Really? bah..
Depending on where you gonna held your wedding reception, be there earlier to make sure everything is prepared. Your bridesmaids and groomsmen may also be there earlier to help check things out.
The bride may be preoccupied to redo her make up and dress up, so the groom is the only hope to run back and forth to do the preparation (boy, am I glad to get help from all of them). The bride will most likely got stuck in the room until the reception time actually starts, depends on what time your MUA will arrive, so do check the updates with her. Let her know in advance how many person will need to do make up for the reception so she can estimate her time.
While I was in the room doing my preparation, Jon was already at the ballroom ushering and greeting our guests. Checking things with the banquet manager. Make sure to assign receptionist and make sure they are also there early.
Once the bride is done, you'll go to the ballroom to greet the guests, take some photos,
but do be wary of the time when the actual reception suppose to start. Get your emcee to be your timekeeper.
Once the program actually starts, bride and groom will have to be ready at the entrance to do the significant march in later.
Nothing much I could comment on here as the dinner reception is pretty basic. But I'll just share with everyone my program flow because I too wanted to look for reference back then... Assuming the dinner should start at 8pm sharp and depending of the set of gowns that the bride will have to change, I had 3 sets. It's tiring. Just go with 2 at most...IMHO
7-7:45pm - Arrival of guests (our guests actually arrives at 6:30pm)
7:35pm - Bride change gown
7:55pm - Emcee plays proposal video of the newlywed
8:00pm - Emcee introduction + couple march in
8:15pm - First dish serve
8:20pm - Plays Tea ceremony session video
8:30pm - Bride change to next set of gown, meantime emcee plays Prewed photoshoot montage
8:45pm - Cake cutting and Toasting session and some speech
9:30pm - Couple goes around the table for toasting
11:00pm - End
It was tiring but indeed an experience to us.
Friday, October 28, 2016
Auspicious: Gift Exchange
Disclaimer: We're officially husband and wife as I wrote this. Sorry for the long delayed post. Many things to do I just got no time to sit and write!
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = hehe = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Oh boy, this is the headache part. If you search through the internet, you will find MANY and I repeat, MANY AND VARIOUS different items you should chuck into the basket for gift exchange (Guo Da Li). Be it for the groom or bride. There are different items to pack depending on which dialect you're from, hokkien, hakka, cantonese, ... you know..
I'm not going to confuse you by telling what dialect we're from, because personally, we did not follow thoroughly what to pack and what not.
If you went for Loh Tit Pat to get the auspicious date for wedding, you will be supplied a list of items to pack. Don't worry, they will let you know which is the MUST HAVE and which is optional or which can be replace with red packet as a symbolism. ( I love this idea)
So what's in the basket: (Arghh! I do not have the photos anymore - blame the phone low storage space)
From groom:
- 2 bottles of liquor
- 8 oranges
- Invitation card
- Dowry
- A pair of chicken (replace with red packet)
- Biscuit ( replace with red packet)
- 9 ft red cloth
- Dragon phoenix candle (replace with red packet)
- Red packet for the bride *
What inclusive in the list of red packets (*) was:
1) Hair combing
2) Money for parents
3) Sisters (sibling)
4) Facial
5) Bride's Chaperone
6) To buy new pajamas
All red packets from the groom must not be packed empty. It has to be filled with any amount (of course, Chinese would like it to be auspicious amount)
In return, bride will have to return the groom with gifts.
- 2 bottles of orange juice/honey
- 8 oranges
- Cypress leaf
- Lotus root
- Pomegranate
- Trousers
- Belt
- Wallet
- Red packets *
Yes, bride would also need to return red packet.
1) Hair combing
2) Hair cut
3) To buy new pajamas
Note: All pockets must not be empty. It has to be filled. This includes the trousers pockets, wallet pockets and of course red packets.
Note2: We include oranges in our list even though it wasn't mentioned in the list from LTP. (Too much resource from internet). There are suppose to be more items in the list but we omitted be cause it was just TOO MUCH.
Note3: Bride and groom are not allowed to touch the gift exchange item until after/on the day of wedding. Family members can though.
Disclaimer: All these superstitious believe whether who can touch or can eat or what not are mostly based on hearsay whether it's from our elders or friends who were wed through customary way. So best is to consult professionals since we ourselves don't have a "dai kam jie" to guide us.
Of course, the list from LTP is just basic guidelines of what is necessary to have. These list may change depending on both families agreement. I heard the request can go as ridiculous as a piece of land, cows, goats, rice, ruler... whatever thing that can be thought of.
Just my two cents. At the end of the day, we're going to be family. Why not we just make things simple and after the wedding, we're one family. We should help each other as a family. Let's not look at materials and monetary in higher position than family relationships. This builds longer and lasting relationship than worldly material.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = hehe = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Oh boy, this is the headache part. If you search through the internet, you will find MANY and I repeat, MANY AND VARIOUS different items you should chuck into the basket for gift exchange (Guo Da Li). Be it for the groom or bride. There are different items to pack depending on which dialect you're from, hokkien, hakka, cantonese, ... you know..
I'm not going to confuse you by telling what dialect we're from, because personally, we did not follow thoroughly what to pack and what not.
If you went for Loh Tit Pat to get the auspicious date for wedding, you will be supplied a list of items to pack. Don't worry, they will let you know which is the MUST HAVE and which is optional or which can be replace with red packet as a symbolism. ( I love this idea)
(Honestly, if it is even possible, I would want to replace everything with red packet symbolism. Of course, with both families agree to it. It makes everything so simple! Imagine this. In the gift exchange list, you're suppose to give a pair of live chicken - yeah, I'm not kidding, and you're suppose to keep it alive until it die on its own. For simplicity of the current generation, it's replaced with red packet as a symbolism. AWESOME right?)
So what's in the basket: (Arghh! I do not have the photos anymore - blame the phone low storage space)
From groom:
- 2 bottles of liquor
- 8 oranges
- Invitation card
- Dowry
- A pair of chicken (replace with red packet)
- Biscuit ( replace with red packet)
- 9 ft red cloth
- Dragon phoenix candle (replace with red packet)
- Red packet for the bride *
What inclusive in the list of red packets (*) was:
1) Hair combing
2) Money for parents
3) Sisters (sibling)
4) Facial
5) Bride's Chaperone
6) To buy new pajamas
All red packets from the groom must not be packed empty. It has to be filled with any amount (of course, Chinese would like it to be auspicious amount)
In return, bride will have to return the groom with gifts.
- 2 bottles of orange juice/honey
- 8 oranges
- Cypress leaf
- Lotus root
- Pomegranate
- Trousers
- Belt
- Wallet
- Red packets *
Yes, bride would also need to return red packet.
1) Hair combing
2) Hair cut
3) To buy new pajamas
Note: All pockets must not be empty. It has to be filled. This includes the trousers pockets, wallet pockets and of course red packets.
Note2: We include oranges in our list even though it wasn't mentioned in the list from LTP. (Too much resource from internet). There are suppose to be more items in the list but we omitted be cause it was just TOO MUCH.
Note3: Bride and groom are not allowed to touch the gift exchange item until after/on the day of wedding. Family members can though.
Disclaimer: All these superstitious believe whether who can touch or can eat or what not are mostly based on hearsay whether it's from our elders or friends who were wed through customary way. So best is to consult professionals since we ourselves don't have a "dai kam jie" to guide us.
Of course, the list from LTP is just basic guidelines of what is necessary to have. These list may change depending on both families agreement. I heard the request can go as ridiculous as a piece of land, cows, goats, rice, ruler... whatever thing that can be thought of.
Just my two cents. At the end of the day, we're going to be family. Why not we just make things simple and after the wedding, we're one family. We should help each other as a family. Let's not look at materials and monetary in higher position than family relationships. This builds longer and lasting relationship than worldly material.
Jo
Monday, July 25, 2016
Photo Album and Misc collection @ Precious Bridal Studio SS2
Hey hey! Sorry for the long hiatus. As it draws nearer to our wedding date, we hardly got much time to juggle between working and wedding preparation! We only got that leeway during weekend to manage our preparations.
This post will be yet another review about our bridal studio! Honestly, I really like their service. I hope I wont be biased when I review about them.
As the title goes, it was the time where we collect our photo album and some other photos collection. What we have in our package was:
The amount doesn't look as though it is a lot but trust us, once you got all these back, you would doubt if the both of you are narcissist. We only got 45 poses in total and obviously all these photo albums will have repeats. We also have an imbalance number of portraits and landscape photos hence our options to accommodate the photo album got really lowered down. Really, remember to select a good balance of portraits and landscape photos.
Here's something that's worth mentioning:
My hubby is a thorough person than I am. I went alone to collect these items and I didn't check that the vintage box, mini album and the glass photo album have a little defect. So we called up the studio and told them our problems. Our PIC which I really like her customer service attitude, Mandy told us to bring the items back so they could check for us or exchange if they have stock for the box. Within the same week, Mandy called us and along with other item collection, we returned to the studio. Mandy tried on few other boxes that they had in store to replace my box that has defect. I know it's what a customer service suppose to do but I still appreciate that they go in and out of their store to unbox the new vintage box and check one by one for defects.
Alright, that's it for now. More preparation to come! Hopefully all BTB can manage them well !
This post will be yet another review about our bridal studio! Honestly, I really like their service. I hope I wont be biased when I review about them.
As the title goes, it was the time where we collect our photo album and some other photos collection. What we have in our package was:
- 1x Vintage box to put our main photo album
- 1x mini album
- 2x bride and groom design album
- 1x canvas portrait
- tons of standing/hanging photo album
 |
| From Top left (clockwise): Vintage box, bride & groom mini album, one of the photo albums, glass photo album |
The amount doesn't look as though it is a lot but trust us, once you got all these back, you would doubt if the both of you are narcissist. We only got 45 poses in total and obviously all these photo albums will have repeats. We also have an imbalance number of portraits and landscape photos hence our options to accommodate the photo album got really lowered down. Really, remember to select a good balance of portraits and landscape photos.
Here's something that's worth mentioning:
My hubby is a thorough person than I am. I went alone to collect these items and I didn't check that the vintage box, mini album and the glass photo album have a little defect. So we called up the studio and told them our problems. Our PIC which I really like her customer service attitude, Mandy told us to bring the items back so they could check for us or exchange if they have stock for the box. Within the same week, Mandy called us and along with other item collection, we returned to the studio. Mandy tried on few other boxes that they had in store to replace my box that has defect. I know it's what a customer service suppose to do but I still appreciate that they go in and out of their store to unbox the new vintage box and check one by one for defects.
Alright, that's it for now. More preparation to come! Hopefully all BTB can manage them well !
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Pre weddng photography location selection
I had this trouble when I was selecting location for my pre wedding photo shoot, you know, it's some special photos, you want it to look best!
0. Have a theme
- Decide on a theme for your photo shoot. Fun, romantic, serious, anything. That pretty much give you a rough idea what background you want for your photo shoot.
1. Research, research and research!
- Google is your friend. Really, there ought to be a lot of blogs and reviews about places to go for pre wedding photo shoot.
0. Have a theme
- Decide on a theme for your photo shoot. Fun, romantic, serious, anything. That pretty much give you a rough idea what background you want for your photo shoot.
1. Research, research and research!
- Google is your friend. Really, there ought to be a lot of blogs and reviews about places to go for pre wedding photo shoot.
2. Distance
- Ask yourself this: Do you mind going far to get a good picture? Is the time taken to travel a problem for you?
- Sometimes we don't mind traveling just to get those good pictures! But at the same time we might get time bound. Maybe you will need to pay extra fee o your photographer for their extra hours? All the factors you will need to consider when deciding your photoshoot location.
3. The big question: Where?
- What kind of background you will want to see in your pre wedding photos?
Here are some of my opinion based on theme.
If your theme is fun, go green! Gardens, fields or even parks. These are some locations to show you and your partner's playful side. Tips: Candid shot will make it looks more fun.
If your theme is romance, try beach, lake, sunset view or night view.
Serious theme. This is more of formal photoshoot I would classify. Studio or structures background like bridge or building can pull this off.
Casual. Even better. Candids! Just relax and be yourselves and everywhere can be your background.
These are just some ideas to pick your location based on your theme. Of course, it can be anywhere of your favourite even at home!
One of the most important thing I learned while doing my photoshoot was to be ourselves, relax and enjoy the day! Both of you the celebrity couple of the day!
Have fun in your photoshoot!
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Wedding Dress Selection @ Precious Bridal Studio
Hey, we're back again to share our experiences up until now with our bridal studio.
So it's finally revealed that the bridal studio that I signed up for is Precious Bridal Studio because I'm happy with their service.
=== ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ ===
The day before the appointment, the staff from Precious Bridal Studio called up to confirm the appointment. I like this kind of reminder. Even if you remembered, it's still a nice gesture to call up to remind again.
On that day, I brought 2 of my girlfriends along for the gown selection. It's really nice to get a 2nd or 3rd eye for opinion. Of course, my hubby too were there. We waited awhile before we ransacked the bridal house to choose the gowns because the wardrobe coordinator was busy.
We were all like monsters. The girls had me tried many designs and colors that I knew myself wouldn't have picked. It turns out pretty nice!
Girls, if you're expecting reaction like in TV dramas, where the audience would look astonished at the first impression of you with your wedding gown, no. Frankly speaking, that didn't happened. I don't look astonished with myself too. Unless you've already had it all prepared with hairdo and make up behind that curtain, then probably a Yes. Otherwise, you still look like you before you enter the changing room. (Sorry, I sounded disappointing here. Too much dramas! HAHA)
Anyway, here's some of what I've tried on:
These four above was meant for actual day! I like the first and last one, but we chose neither because the girls said I had too many of this choices. It got bored. Haha.
These 2 were what I'm getting for actual day! And another dress which we didn't took photo of because it was a last minute pick. Don't get me wrong, it was nice too.
And in all my experience with Precious Bridal Studio were good so far. Helen were really quick in getting the dress on and off! (I hope I don't sound wrong here).
I've tried over 20 dresses in less than an hour. Gosh, I don't even know how many dresses I've tried on. Everyone just went on rampage to find the right dress for me. I really appreciate that! It actually saved my time to search for them if it was just me and hubby.
The red one was a lace based dress, so there were additional charges for the cleaning fee of RM250 before GST. I really wanted to wear a Oriental dress for my wedding so we paid for that. Thanks hubby!
Alright, next post will be an update to this, the photo shoot!
So it's finally revealed that the bridal studio that I signed up for is Precious Bridal Studio because I'm happy with their service.
=== ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ === ~~~ ===
The day before the appointment, the staff from Precious Bridal Studio called up to confirm the appointment. I like this kind of reminder. Even if you remembered, it's still a nice gesture to call up to remind again.
On that day, I brought 2 of my girlfriends along for the gown selection. It's really nice to get a 2nd or 3rd eye for opinion. Of course, my hubby too were there. We waited awhile before we ransacked the bridal house to choose the gowns because the wardrobe coordinator was busy.
We were all like monsters. The girls had me tried many designs and colors that I knew myself wouldn't have picked. It turns out pretty nice!
Girls, if you're expecting reaction like in TV dramas, where the audience would look astonished at the first impression of you with your wedding gown, no. Frankly speaking, that didn't happened. I don't look astonished with myself too. Unless you've already had it all prepared with hairdo and make up behind that curtain, then probably a Yes. Otherwise, you still look like you before you enter the changing room. (Sorry, I sounded disappointing here. Too much dramas! HAHA)
Anyway, here's some of what I've tried on:
The top 3 was what I had for photo shoot session. Please don't mind the ignorant face I had. I was having awkward moment to pose.
These 2 were what I'm getting for actual day! And another dress which we didn't took photo of because it was a last minute pick. Don't get me wrong, it was nice too.
And in all my experience with Precious Bridal Studio were good so far. Helen were really quick in getting the dress on and off! (I hope I don't sound wrong here).
I've tried over 20 dresses in less than an hour. Gosh, I don't even know how many dresses I've tried on. Everyone just went on rampage to find the right dress for me. I really appreciate that! It actually saved my time to search for them if it was just me and hubby.
The red one was a lace based dress, so there were additional charges for the cleaning fee of RM250 before GST. I really wanted to wear a Oriental dress for my wedding so we paid for that. Thanks hubby!
Alright, next post will be an update to this, the photo shoot!
Friday, November 13, 2015
Think about the dessert after the main
"I haven't done this! I haven't done that! This too! I have no time to think about things after wedding! There's so many to do still!"
Relax! Sure, there are a lot to do still. This is a good time to breathe in and out and think about the game plan thoroughly. Set a short, mid and long term goal to accomplish for your wedding preparation. List out what you need to accomplish each goal. It varies for each couple so for example, here's one:
Short term goal: The planning
- Secure all the contacts, booking and services. i.e. Actual day photographers, Make-Up Artist, Bride's Chaperon, venue, bridal studio for gown and pre-wedding photoshoot.
- If you're gonna have bridesmaids and groomsmen, make sure you've already booked their time! They need to be booked too. *wink* Imagine telling them last minute but they've already made plans! If they're gonna wear uniformly during your wedding day, spare some time looking for it with them so that you can make sure the style and colour suits your theme.
- Plan for honeymoon. "What? I have so many things to do now, I have no time...".. Shush... It's the best time in fact! You're in the midst of planning. Input this into your budget! It's also good to be able to think about your dream honeymoon once awhile during the other phases. It keeps you going!
Mid Term goal: The bumps
- Pre wedding photoshoot. This would be the next phase I look forward to. It's gonna be another major event in our wedding preparation. We'd start looking for possible locations for the photoshoot, theme colour and style that we want and props that we would need to prepare.
Long term goal: The EXECUTION
- Your wedding day. Enough said. This is it! The day that you'll be anticipate for. Hint: If you don't have a wedding planner, appoint your relative or friend or best man or maid of honour to be the floor manager. They'll need to know your plan inside out to coordinate with the hotel or restaurant manager for the wedding reception. So make sure to share with them all the info you got for that night.
After all that hard work, thank the people and yourselves. Both of you deserve a good pat. Go for your honeymoon! Enjoy the world with just the two of you newlyweds!
-JO-
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
What's next?
Hey ya, it seems that we have gone pretty hiatus from our last posts/update. That's because we're now doing some preparation in the background.
The next event for us is the pre-wedding photoshoot, then the main event which is the Actual Day next (Tea ceremony and Dinner)
Technically we have less than a year to our big event next year. So our preparation now is to get contacts and details on Dai Kum Jie (Bride's Chaperone) and photo/videographer on our actual day.
I'm also gathering some information on what to props to prepare for our pre wedding photo shoot and also the locations.
I'm really glad I have my girls for this, I'm also in the midst of looking out for bridesmaids dress and groomsmen' accessories.
Since I have yet to confirm any, I'll be glad if anyone can give me some contact details for :
- Dai Kum Jie
- Photo/Videographer
or any suggestions on the pre wedding photo shoot's (preferably within Klang Valley):
- Props
- Location
Much appreciated!
The next event for us is the pre-wedding photoshoot, then the main event which is the Actual Day next (Tea ceremony and Dinner)
Technically we have less than a year to our big event next year. So our preparation now is to get contacts and details on Dai Kum Jie (Bride's Chaperone) and photo/videographer on our actual day.
I'm also gathering some information on what to props to prepare for our pre wedding photo shoot and also the locations.
I'm really glad I have my girls for this, I'm also in the midst of looking out for bridesmaids dress and groomsmen' accessories.
Since I have yet to confirm any, I'll be glad if anyone can give me some contact details for :
- Dai Kum Jie
or any suggestions on the pre wedding photo shoot's (preferably within Klang Valley):
- Props
- Location
Much appreciated!
-Jo-
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Preparation for ROM
Well, technically this part is not important. It's really optional. Really.
You can always go for ROM in any formal clothes that you feel comfortable with. The rules states that on the day of registration for both the couples and witnesses:
- Dress neatly
- No sandals or slippers
- No jeans or shorts
- No T-shirt
The guy's dress up is pretty simple (as usual). Just a formal shirt, a long pants and a shoe. Of course, if you want to look good, dress formal.
For the lady, as I've seen many, they wore a white dress - no particular colour code or dress code applies besides the above "No" rules. You don't need to wear a bride's gown. I feel that's a bit exaggerated and out of place. No harm anyway, but if you do wear that, may I suggest that you have the matching make up and accessories? :)
As for me, I wore a white dress.
and to match with it, I brought along my handmade flower bouquet, made of ribbons!
I had manicure sessions the day before the ROM and I finally got to do the design that I love so much for this occasion!
And a hairdo. I am not good at doing this by myself. Look at my mess.
Regardless, these are just some ideas of what you can do for preparation. Like I've said earlier, it's optional. You can do more than that or neither at all.
The final preparation,
BE MENTALLY PREPARED!
You're going to be someone's wife/husband! Just exaggerating. Don't worry, just enjoy the day!
You can always go for ROM in any formal clothes that you feel comfortable with. The rules states that on the day of registration for both the couples and witnesses:
- Dress neatly
- No sandals or slippers
- No jeans or shorts
- No T-shirt
The guy's dress up is pretty simple (as usual). Just a formal shirt, a long pants and a shoe. Of course, if you want to look good, dress formal.
For the lady, as I've seen many, they wore a white dress - no particular colour code or dress code applies besides the above "No" rules. You don't need to wear a bride's gown. I feel that's a bit exaggerated and out of place. No harm anyway, but if you do wear that, may I suggest that you have the matching make up and accessories? :)
As for me, I wore a white dress.
And a hairdo. I am not good at doing this by myself. Look at my mess.
Regardless, these are just some ideas of what you can do for preparation. Like I've said earlier, it's optional. You can do more than that or neither at all.
The final preparation,
BE MENTALLY PREPARED!
You're going to be someone's wife/husband! Just exaggerating. Don't worry, just enjoy the day!
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
A little note for Bride To Be (BTB)
Hey there BTBs! "How's the wedding preparation going on?" I'm sure this is one of the most common questions you'll get. It's the most exciting question and yet disappointing at the same time. Depends on how well your preparations are already.
If you have no issue with budget, these guidelines might not applied to you. But if you still want to have a read, go ahead.
If you haven't already, get started. Here's some guides to follow:
Plan Ahead.
It's never too early to plan ahead. At least you'll get a rough idea of how you want your wedding to be. Have a list on what you should prepare.
Get Advices.
You may not be experienced in wedding. So get it from someone who has did it before. Friends, family or relatives or even from the internet. There may be too many ideas from different person and different way of how they conduct their wedding but at least you will get some idea.
Budget.
Set a budget that will not burden your capability. Most girls wanted a perfect luxurious wedding but think about your budget. Don't be tricked with the "wedding is once in a lifetime" quote. Of course it is supposed to be once in a lifetime but what comes after the wedding is your reality. You wouldn't want to end up in debt that take you years and hard work to repay them. I would say that's not worth for a once in a lifetime.
Plan Again.
After getting to this point, your budget might not be comfortable anymore. This is when you should come up with plan B. Consider rescaling your banquet size, venue, miscellaneous expenses and other possible budgets that you can trim. Consider coming up with other possible plans for wedding. If dinner is too expensive, what about lunch? Do you really need a wedding planner? Do you need the customized wedding invitation cards? Can you do without it? For example. Ask yourself questions about the budget.
While this might not be the best guides ever, I sure do hope it will help to shine some light. :)
I'm utmost grateful when I got help from my friends and family for my wedding preparations. Can you imagine handling one without them? I can't. I appreciate all of their ideas and help and I feel so blessed to have them. Well, if I think of anything that can help with you BTBs, I'll write it down. Till then. Happy planning !
If you have no issue with budget, these guidelines might not applied to you. But if you still want to have a read, go ahead.
If you haven't already, get started. Here's some guides to follow:
Plan Ahead.
It's never too early to plan ahead. At least you'll get a rough idea of how you want your wedding to be. Have a list on what you should prepare.
Get Advices.
You may not be experienced in wedding. So get it from someone who has did it before. Friends, family or relatives or even from the internet. There may be too many ideas from different person and different way of how they conduct their wedding but at least you will get some idea.
Budget.
Set a budget that will not burden your capability. Most girls wanted a perfect luxurious wedding but think about your budget. Don't be tricked with the "wedding is once in a lifetime" quote. Of course it is supposed to be once in a lifetime but what comes after the wedding is your reality. You wouldn't want to end up in debt that take you years and hard work to repay them. I would say that's not worth for a once in a lifetime.
Plan Again.
After getting to this point, your budget might not be comfortable anymore. This is when you should come up with plan B. Consider rescaling your banquet size, venue, miscellaneous expenses and other possible budgets that you can trim. Consider coming up with other possible plans for wedding. If dinner is too expensive, what about lunch? Do you really need a wedding planner? Do you need the customized wedding invitation cards? Can you do without it? For example. Ask yourself questions about the budget.
While this might not be the best guides ever, I sure do hope it will help to shine some light. :)
I'm utmost grateful when I got help from my friends and family for my wedding preparations. Can you imagine handling one without them? I can't. I appreciate all of their ideas and help and I feel so blessed to have them. Well, if I think of anything that can help with you BTBs, I'll write it down. Till then. Happy planning !
JO
Monday, July 20, 2015
Getting it legalize
What's more important in marriage than getting the law involved? That's right. This is the important step in marriage if you haven't done so already to make sure that you are lawfully wedded husband and wife.
Mine shall be done in the temple (Thean Hou) but it can also be done at the National Registration Department (JPN). They provide a private room/hall for the marriage solemnization. I'm not sure about the details for this procedure but you can inquire about it at JPN. Their staffs are pretty helpful. Anyway, here's to shine some light if you wish to do it at the temple like us.
It's pretty simple. Here's the guideline from the temple that helped us.
It'll be some time till our ROM date. Till then... Happy prepping up !
-edit-
Here's the update of the ROM
Mine shall be done in the temple (Thean Hou) but it can also be done at the National Registration Department (JPN). They provide a private room/hall for the marriage solemnization. I'm not sure about the details for this procedure but you can inquire about it at JPN. Their staffs are pretty helpful. Anyway, here's to shine some light if you wish to do it at the temple like us.
It's pretty simple. Here's the guideline from the temple that helped us.
- Enquiry and booking.
- We kind of skipped this step. We only inquire but no booking yet. Anyway, to book (couple need to present in person), both will need to prepare:
- Photocopy of MyKad ( front and back on same page)
- Photocopy of Birth Certificate
- Photocopy of 2 witnesses' MyKad (witness does not need to present during submission)
- Passport sized photo of applicants
- I'm not sure if the item above needs to be prepared during this step or not. No harm in bringing anyway.
- Statuary Declaration
- NOTE: Don't forget to bring your(both of you) MyKad and a passport sized photo
- We were told that we could get all the things done at the Ministry of Home Affairs Complex (Kompleks Kementerian Dalam Negeri) at Jalan Duta. I guess there should be JPN that also provide Commissioner of Oath at the same building, but we were too lazy to find out where else.
- We went straight ahead to the Perkahwinan dan Penceraian department to get the JPN.KC02 form. The staff were friendly and told us what's the next procedure after filling up the form.
- After filling up the form given, OH! and don't forget the to stick on the passport sized photo to the form! We then went to declare it at the Commissioner of Oath. They have it at the same building, but so happen it was closed on that day due to holiday weekend. So we went to the Commissioner of Oath in the High Court which is nearby LHDN building.
- Paid RM 4 for the fee and we're done with the Statuary Declaration. Next, back to JPN.
- JPN Verification
- We passed the completed form back to the JPN officer and after some verification, and payment of RM 20 for the Marriage Register, we were good to go.
- Form Submission
- We went to Thean Hou temple that weekend to submit our forms and photocopied documents of MyKad, birth cert and witness' MyKad and book (since we skipped the booking step, remember?) for our desired ROM date and paid a fee of RM 80.
- They'll choose a time slot for us and now, we wait for the day to come! *I'm so excited*
- ROM!
It'll be some time till our ROM date. Till then... Happy prepping up !
-edit-
Here's the update of the ROM
JO
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Basic checklist for venue
Writing this checklist just in case my brother asks for it. This is basically for Chinese wedding dinner since I'll be doing dinner
If you're looking for hotel (precedence does not weigh the importance here):
• Location
• Price per table
• What kind of decorations do they provide - Backdrop, flower deco, reception counter
• Parking rate for guests
• Corkage fee
• Complimentary drinks
• Complimentary tidbits
• Special rate/complimentary accomodation
• What type of drink do they provide for champagne fountain
• Menu
• No. of complimentary invitation cards
• Min/max no. of guests the hall can fit
• LCD/PA system
I guess that's mainly it. Get the one within your liking and budget of course.
Tips: It's really not a good idea to spend a fortune in wedding. I know it's just once in a lifetime thing. But you and your spouse is the real lifetime. Think about your future expenditure and spend wisely within your budget.
JO
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Pre-Wed photography and Venue
There are many ways to get information or to look for pre-wedding photography and venues.
1. Typically, going bridal shop by bridal shop to get the best quotations or
2. You can do research online to based on others' comments and reviews or
3. If you're lazy like me, you can lookout for bridal fairs in your area so you'll get everyone in one place and just get the best offer you can get! (Besides, there could be special promotions prior to the event!)
There was a bridal fair in my area just few days ago. So being excited for the whole week before the event, I was happy to be there. There wasn't such a big crowd there, maybe because there were another bridal fair just a month ago. So if you have missed out on this, you can always wait for the next one soon. Just got to keep lookout for it. (I heard the next one is on July or August)
I got my wedding venue and pre wedding photography from this fair! Here's some tips:
- Take your time through the fair. Get all the brochures and information you need.
- Ask! Ask all the doubts you have.
- Weigh out between locations and shops. Price, special deals and maybe extra benefits they can offer.
One thing we learned through this fair. We were "pulled" to many of bridal shop booths. Everyone told us to give them a chance to preach for 2 minutes. IT WAS A LIE! Once you sat down, they began to show you their photo album after photo album. They wouldn't let you go even if you politely told them you will consider it and maybe return after you have gather enough information to compare. One of them aggressively selling her package to us and told us that if we walk out from the booth, we might not get this offer from her again. It feels like a threat. No, we did not sign up regardless from that bridal shop. I don't like their service. It was "My dream wedding". I've heard enough from googling their reviews and finally experiencing it. I was not surprised.
We then signed up with another bridal shop. Even though there bound to be hidden costs somewhere later but I like them for their honesty and price they offer for the amount of service given. I'm not naming the shop yet until I experience the photoshoot. If they're good, I'll recommend. Oh ya, make sure you brought enough money/credit card because they might have good deal if you sign up there and then for the bridal shop deal.
We gather information that night and went to scout the venue before returning to the fair the next day to seal the deal for our wedding location. It does help really to check out the venue with your own presence to see if you agree with the location or not before the final decision making.
So we have made some progress this week and next up, informing relatives and friends maybe. I'll probably post up some checklist to look for to decide on location.
JO
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Getting the number of tables
I've heard countless times from other brides or relatives ranting about this matter and now it finally happen to me. I thought it was easy. "Why? You should know the number of your guests roughly isn't it?" Well, technically yes but you need to take into account that the number of person you invite might or might not be the total number of seats taken on the wedding dinner itself! I'm already having headache who to invite.
It's good to have a list of names prepared in advance even though you already roughly know who or the number of guests you want to invite. This helps to identify whom you want to send your wedding invitation card to and to keep track of the number of guests in your list (in case you double counted).
Work with your other half to get the total number of tables (if you're doing the shared wedding dinner) to include his/her side of guests. You need to estimate a rough number of tables before engaging your wedding dinner venue.
Here's some suggestions on the list: (technically my baseline)
After that, of course, is to hunt for wedding venue. Have a list of venues prepared and send in your inquiries and to get their proposal. It's also good to send in the inquiries as early as possible (at least a year ahead) just so that you can get an early confirmation that your dinner venue is settled. Also, some of these venue might offer you some extras and packages that could save you time and effort looking for it elsewhere. Have a checklist to see what they could offer and compare with other venue before making the choice.
It's good to have a list of names prepared in advance even though you already roughly know who or the number of guests you want to invite. This helps to identify whom you want to send your wedding invitation card to and to keep track of the number of guests in your list (in case you double counted).
Work with your other half to get the total number of tables (if you're doing the shared wedding dinner) to include his/her side of guests. You need to estimate a rough number of tables before engaging your wedding dinner venue.
Here's some suggestions on the list: (technically my baseline)
- Family
- Relatives
- Friends - School, College, University
- Work - Colleagues, Ex-close-colleagues
- Neighbors (or your-parents-friends-that-you-may-or-may-not-know-of)
After that, of course, is to hunt for wedding venue. Have a list of venues prepared and send in your inquiries and to get their proposal. It's also good to send in the inquiries as early as possible (at least a year ahead) just so that you can get an early confirmation that your dinner venue is settled. Also, some of these venue might offer you some extras and packages that could save you time and effort looking for it elsewhere. Have a checklist to see what they could offer and compare with other venue before making the choice.
JO
Monday, April 27, 2015
Getting the auspicious date.
We venture into the first item in our list, which is to get auspicious date from sifu (astrology master). In the Chinese culture, it is important to get the auspicious day to ensure that everything may go well on that important day.
We first got to know about this astrology master from Jon's colleague and little did we know, this master is quite famous in the internet. Google his name, Loh Tat Pit or Loh Tit Pat and you will find that he is everywhere related to couple to get their good dates especially for wedding!
It wasn't that difficult to look for his shop but for both of us who are Chinese illiterate, we had missed the entrance to his shop which is at the first floor of Bangunan Ka Yin Fui Kong at Petaling Street.
The dates available as calculated from our birth date and time were then sent to us later that evening. The fee was RM 250 just to get the dates and once we had confirmed the date, we would need to reply them and also we would get some free gift. As she had pointed to us, I presume that it was some of the wedding gift exchange ("Guo Da Li") item.
To see the Master Loh himself, that would cost additional RM 50 which is RM 300 where we could ask him further about our fortune and even bring along our parents to ask about it. We figured we have no questions for the master and decided on the RM 250 package only.
After we got our list of dates that evening, it's then time to scratch our head again to calculate the number of tables required to seat our families and friends. That's all for the progress now.
Here's the address for the master's location.
LOH TAT PIT / LOH TIT PAT
No. 63D, 1st Floor,
Jalan Sultan,
5000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-2070 0917 / 017-2825 666
IMHO, LRT would be the better choice to get there since it's not too far distance from the station. You could avoid the traffic jam at this human congested area and also the parking rates in the town is expensive.
Last but not least, if you happen to found this blog while searching for your wedding preparations, I would like to say, CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement!
P/S: Once you got the dates, it is advisable to pick tentative and alternate dates! Just so it helps with wedding venue booking.
Read the update here
We first got to know about this astrology master from Jon's colleague and little did we know, this master is quite famous in the internet. Google his name, Loh Tat Pit or Loh Tit Pat and you will find that he is everywhere related to couple to get their good dates especially for wedding!
It wasn't that difficult to look for his shop but for both of us who are Chinese illiterate, we had missed the entrance to his shop which is at the first floor of Bangunan Ka Yin Fui Kong at Petaling Street.
I was nervous because I have not engaged any of the kind of fortune telling or palm reading master. Deep down when I was already at the entrance I actually hesitated. I do not know who is behind the door. My imagination would be that there would be incense burning as offering to the God, people chanting some prayers and that it would look traditional inside.
Little did I know, they were quite modern. A long table with a few followers of Master Loh and a waiting area. We entered looking confused and one of the lady greeted us and asked if she could help us. We told her our intention and got seated. We were asked to provide these few simple information:
- Our birth date
- Our time of the birth day
- Parents Chinese zodiac
- Range of date for the wedding. First half or second half of which year.
- Where would the groom leave from to fetch the bride for the ceremony
The dates available as calculated from our birth date and time were then sent to us later that evening. The fee was RM 250 just to get the dates and once we had confirmed the date, we would need to reply them and also we would get some free gift. As she had pointed to us, I presume that it was some of the wedding gift exchange ("Guo Da Li") item.
To see the Master Loh himself, that would cost additional RM 50 which is RM 300 where we could ask him further about our fortune and even bring along our parents to ask about it. We figured we have no questions for the master and decided on the RM 250 package only.
After we got our list of dates that evening, it's then time to scratch our head again to calculate the number of tables required to seat our families and friends. That's all for the progress now.
Here's the address for the master's location.
LOH TAT PIT / LOH TIT PAT
No. 63D, 1st Floor,
Jalan Sultan,
5000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-2070 0917 / 017-2825 666
IMHO, LRT would be the better choice to get there since it's not too far distance from the station. You could avoid the traffic jam at this human congested area and also the parking rates in the town is expensive.
- The station to stop is Pasar Seni.
- Once you got down from the station, walk across the road (at this point of time of this post) towards the 7-eleven below Pusat Tuisyen Kasturi.
- Turn right at the corner of the building and you should see the start of the Petaling Street.
- Walk all the way straight through the street and cross the road when you hit the end of the Petaling Street.
- Turn right and look for 5 Elements Hotel.
- Walk slightly further and you will see the signage on top at the first floor of Bangunan Ka Yin Fui Kong
- Go up to first floor and you will see Loh Tit Pat on your right. Tadaaa!
Last but not least, if you happen to found this blog while searching for your wedding preparations, I would like to say, CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement!
P/S: Once you got the dates, it is advisable to pick tentative and alternate dates! Just so it helps with wedding venue booking.
Read the update here
JO
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