Focus On The Most Important Part Of Your Wedding

Focusing on the most important aspects of your wedding can be very helpful in staying within your budget.

This photo is one of our pre-nup photos, shot by Jim Ubalde of Cebu.

In our case, we prioritized making sure our chosen guests felt comfortable.

1. Church: The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

We went the extra mile to ensure the church was air-conditioned. For us as a couple, this was the most important part of the wedding since it’s where the ceremony took place.

2. Shuttle Service

Even though our reception was nearby, we provided shuttles to make transportation easier and more convenient for our guests.

3. Reception: Casino Español de Cebu

We chose an excellent reception venue that wasn’t just close to the church but also had top-notch food. As a bonus, it provided an amazing holding area for our wedding team.

4. Hotel: Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino

We stayed in a wonderful hotel, booking a bridal suite for me and an additional space for dressing up.

5. Coffee Booth: Happy Barista by Kidz Joyce Darza

We hired our favorite coffee shop to bring in a coffee booth, so our guests could experience our favorite coffee.

6. Band: Momentum Cebu (full band)

Good entertainment was a priority, so we hired the best band in Cebu, and I highly recommend a full band setup.

7. Photography & Videography: (Video) Cinematix Stills & Motion, (Photography) Jim Ubalde

We were fortunate to have a veteran photographer and videographer on our team, thanks to our amazing coordinator. With so many photographers and videographers available, it’s important to choose those who can deliver a story, capturing not only images and footage but also the moments from a “director’s point of view.”

8. Cake

We chose a cake that reflected our personalities as travelers.

9. Decorations

Decoration was lower on our list of priorities. While I love flowers, we decided it was more practical to focus on things our guests would truly enjoy, like food, a comfortable venue, and reliable transportation. Instead of spending a lot on decorations, we opted to provide treats like Johnnie Walker drinks, Starbucks gift cards for games, and more. Do we regret it? Not at all!

At the end of the day, it’s all about priorities. To future brides and grooms: don’t pressure yourselves. Choose things that align with your budget and personality, and you won’t miss a thing on your special day.

The Proposal Video: Click Here

Our Wedding Video: Click Here

Top Common Wedding Guest Mistakes You Must Avoid

Weddings are joyous occasions, but as a guest, it’s essential to follow a few guidelines to ensure the day goes smoothly for everyone. Here are some of the most common wedding guest mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

This photo was taken during our honeymoon at Grey Rock Cabins.

1. Don’t Steal the Spotlight from the Bride

This is her day, not yours. Avoid doing anything that might take attention away from the bride—whether it's wearing an overly eye-catching outfit, being too loud, or causing any unnecessary drama.

2. Dress According to the Theme

Always respect the dress code or theme specified by the couple. If the invitation requests a certain style, color, or formality, do your best to follow it. It’s a simple way to show respect and celebrate alongside them.

3. Don’t Bring an Unannounced Plus-One

Bringing an uninvited guest isn’t just inconsiderate—it can disrupt the couple’s careful planning. Remember, seats, meals, and arrangements are made based on the RSVP list, so only bring a plus-one if it's approved in advance.

4. Avoid the 'Eat and Run'

Weddings are a full celebration, not just a meal. Don’t make a quick exit right after dining—stick around to share in the joy and festivities. Show your support for the couple by being part of the entire event.

5. Read the Invitation Carefully

Every detail on the invitation is there for a reason, so don’t skip over it. Take note of special instructions, dress codes, or specific requests. These details help you understand what’s expected and allow you to participate fully in the couple's big day.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be a considerate and memorable guest, helping to make the wedding day truly special for the couple.

The Proposal Video: Click Here

Our Wedding Video: Click Here

Requirements For Getting Married In A Church

This blog is a step-by-step guide for future brides and grooms on obtaining the requirements for getting married in a church.

Note: It's for Filipino couples who are of legal age to marry.

This photo was taken at Fujikawaguchiko as our engagement shoot. A day
after my long-time partner, now my husband, proposed on January 30, 2024.
Time flies so fast; we got married on September 19, 2024.

After you and your future husband have decided on the date of your wedding and the type of wedding you both want, I highly recommend scheduling a meeting with your trusted wedding coordinator (in our case, it's Wedding Prelude Event Planning & Coordination). Be sure to book the church, reception, and hotel as soon as possible to avoid any changes.

Requirements Needed

• Baptismal Certificate

• Confirmation Certificate

• Government Marriage License

• Pre-Cana Seminar

• Canonical Interview

• Marriage Banns

At our wedding reception, featuring our band, Momentum Cebu,
along with our unique travel-themed wedding cake.

What is a Pre-Cana Seminar?

Pre-Cana is a marriage preparation course, workshop, or consultation for couples planning to marry in a Catholic church.

• Read my Pre-Cana Blog: Click Here

What is a Pre-Nuptial or Canonical Interview?

This is an interview for couples with the priest in the parish where the wedding ceremony will take place. It is meant to ensure that both parties are freely and willingly entering into the sacrament of marriage.

What are Marriage Banns?

Marriage banns are announcements made in a church or community about a couple's intention to marry. They are typically announced during church services for three weeks leading up to the wedding. This gives the community a chance to know about the marriage and raise any objections if there are legal issues.

Our Wedding Reception: At Casino Español De Cebu 

What are the requirements for obtaining a marriage license?

• PSA Issued Birth Certificates

• CENOMAR or Certificate of No Marriage from PSA  (with receipt, must be issued no more than 90 days prior to the application for a marriage license)

• Barangay Certificate for Marriage (with receipt) 

This is only for Mandaue residents; I'm not sure if it's applicable in your area. You may want to ask for clarification.

• Pre-Marriage Counseling Seminar

For the most part, regarding the Pre-Marriage Counseling Seminar, if any of you (bride and groom-to-be) are nurses, there are some exemptions from the seminar. Isn’t that amazing?

The Proposal Video: Click Here

Our Wedding Video: Click Here

Leading Innovation And Sustainability In Cosmetics

Pioneering innovation and sustainability in the cosmetics industry

(L-R) CCIP's Rachel Manzano, Christine Reyes, FDA's DG Samuel Zacate,
Maria Macabeo, Mara Astrid Ambata, DENR's Gilbert Maximo, and CCIP's Shirley Cayago

With sustainability and digitalization at the heart of the global cosmetics industry, COSMETICON 2024 opened its doors at the Acacia Hotel in Alabang. This year’s theme, “Digitalization, Innovation, and Sustainability,” positioned the event as a beacon for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) seeking to thrive in an evolving market.

This is the second annual cosmetics conference organized by the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP). The day commenced with Christine Michelle P. Reyes, president of the CCIP, who underscored the importance of innovation and regulatory compliance in her opening remarks. “COSMETICON 2024 is about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in cosmetics while ensuring that our businesses remain compliant, sustainable, and innovative,” said Reyes.

The morning session started with Maria Lynette M. Macabeo, FDA regulatory officer, who discussed promo permit regulations, followed by Maria Astrid M. Ambata, who covered post-marketing surveillance. Gilbert Maximo from DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau gave an overview of new chemical regulations, a crucial subject in today's industry. 

Keynote Speaker, Dr. Samuel A. Zacate, director general of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), delivered a well-received presentation on functional cosmetics and F-Pop, stressing the role of regulatory bodies in innovation and public safety.

After the keynote, Claire Pasicolan from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) presented on the understanding of PDEA regulations and their impact on the cosmetics industry. The morning ended with a panel discussion featuring regulatory experts, moderated by Janina G. Tan of Jradiance Corporation, focusing on industry challenges. 

The afternoon session shifted focus to digital marketing, testing, and logistics. Terence Rene T. Iguidez III, from Sigmatech Inc., demonstrated advanced laboratory equipment for cosmetic products, while Ray Caguin, Country Director of LOCAD, discussed business sustainability amid digitalization. This was followed by Urk Acapulco of Xceler8 Technologies, who spoke on industry productivity solutions.

An insightful industry-sharing session was led by Marjorie Racines, Technical Services Head at Wipro-Splash Corporation, on substantiating cosmetic claims. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) was represented by Hon. Adoracion P. Resurreccion, Chairperson of the PRC Chemistry Board, who discussed the issuance of Certificates of Authority to operate chemical laboratories.

The day concluded with networking opportunities, sponsor presentations, and closing remarks from Maricar O. Lopez, Board Secretary of Connell Bros. Co. Pilipinas, Inc., reinforcing the importance of collaboration for the industry's growth.

The conference was undoubtedly a resounding success, highlighting many learnings from speakers including the growing importance of functional cosmetics, as outlined by FDA director Dr. Samuel Zacate. He emphasized that functional cosmetics not only enhance beauty but also provide added health benefits, making regulatory compliance more crucial than ever. 

FDA officials Maria Lynette M. Macabeo and Maria Astri M. Ambata shared business compliance with detailed updated on promo permit regulations and post-marketing surveillance. Lastly, Insights into sustainable business models in the digital age, shared by LOCAD’s Ray Caguin, highlight how companies can adapt to modern market demands while remaining environmentally and economically sustainable.

Bridal Suite At Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino

I still can't believe that a week has passed since our wedding, and I couldn't help but share how lucky I feel as a bride. Yes! I'm so lucky to have stayed in the Bridal Suite at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino.

Yours truly at the Bridal Suite at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino.

Thank you so much for this dearest husband ♥

How was the room?

The room was so spacious! It had a living room, dining area, huge bedroom, bathroom with a bathtub, and two toilets (one near the living room and one near the bedroom). There were three televisions—one in the living room, one in the bedroom, and one in front of the bathtub.

The Livingroom

The dining area

The bedroom

Left side area inside the bedroom

An area inside the bedroom and the right bedside table

Shower area and the toilet near the bedroom

Left: Coffee area near the living room

Right: The first sink near the bedroom (as there's
another one in the toilet near the Livingroom).

Where to book online?

• Bridal Suite: Click Here

Book a room at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino

• Klook: Click Here

• Expedia: Click Here

What’s another alternative to booking online?

Just visit the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino and ask the receptionist about booking the Bridal Suite. They’ll direct you to their sales department.

Sharing you all my picture (see the other pictures above) from
NUSTAR Resort’s Bridal & Celebrations Fair.

It’s truly an honor to be a bride with Wedding Prelude Event Planning
& Coordination, and of course, to have photography by Jim Ubalde.

Robe: White Mannequin

Photos taken: In the Bridal Suite at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino.

#BELOVEDFair #NUSTARWeddings #CebuEvents #BridalShow
#CelebrationsofLove #FiliHotel #UniquelyFili #jimubaldephotography
#weddingpreludeeventplanningandcoordination

For the most part, brides have the option of dining at UNO Restaurant or the Ambassador Club Lounge for breakfast. However, in my case, I just had a piece of bread and coffee while enjoying the view outside the room, as I was already dealing with my 'wedding anxiety' at that moment.

Was it worth it?

Yes, definitely! It made me feel like a Disney princess for a day. I’m beyond grateful for this blessing: the gift of love, to be loved, marriage, family, friends, and amazing in-laws.

P.S. I know I’ll look back at this post someday and tell our future kids how lucky their mama was to have such an amazing prince charming (their papa).

Japanese Bathroom: INAX Arrives In BQ Builderware Bohol

        INAX and BQ Builderware bring world-renowned Japanese style bathrooms in Bohol

INAX Now In BQ Builderware Bohol: Japanese Style Bathrooms

Many aspire to have Japanese-inspired bathrooms in their homes. Their clean and minimalist look have such a calming effect that even hotels and resorts work hard in creating such a relaxing Zen vibe in their bathrooms. But aside from their remarkable aesthetics, Japanese bathrooms abide by the “form and function” design philosophy, utilizing the latest innovation and technology while delivering outstanding quality and convenience to home or business owners.

INAX Now In BQ Builderware Bohol: Japanese Style Bathrooms

Now, it’s easier for many more households, hotels and resorts in the Visayas region to achieve the clean and minimalist Japanese aesthetic in their bathrooms, thanks to BQ Builderware and its partnership with INAX, one of the leading brands in the Japanese toilet space.

A key player in Bohol, BQ Builderware is a one-stop shop for construction materials that include quality ceramic tiles and other floor covering options, bathroom fixtures, accessories, and many more.

INAX Now In BQ Builderware: Japanese Style Bathrooms

Through this partnership, Boholanos can now achieve the Japanese bathrooms of their dreams – from clean and minimalist spaces at home to nature-inspired bathrooms perfect for resorts, and luxurious haven for hotels – as the best and the latest INAX products, such as the S200 collection, S400 collection and S600 collection are now available at the INAX showroom in BQ Builderware, located at 35 Visarra Street, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines.

As a leading brand in the Japanese toilet space, INAX has been pioneering toilet innovations and enhanced living environments for over 100 years, all rooted in three core pillars: creativity, technology, and design. With the brand’s “human-centric technology” approach, INAX consistently designs bathroom products that align with its mission of enabling everyone to live well.

With BQ Builderware’s partnership with INAX, the Bohol Quality Corporation further strengthens its reputation as a brand that’s an integral part of the daily lives of Boholanos, offering the best quality of products and services, to its customers.

For more updates on INAX, visit www.inax.com.ph and follow @INAXPhilippines on Facebook and @inax.philippines on Instagram.