Things We Learned as First-Time Homeowners

Living together as husband and wife in your own house can be both overwhelming and, at the same time, require a lot of adjustments. Let me share some of the things we learned as first-time homeowners who recently got married.

"Home is the starting place of love, hope, and dreams." — Unknown

Here are the things we learned:

1. Your house is your safe space

Your house is your safe space. Make sure you and your spouse decide together on the small details of your home, such as the house color, countertops, dining table, etc.

2. House chores are divided into two

As a couple who live without any help to do the chores, it's essential to divide them. For example, if I do the cooking, my husband does the dishes. This might not apply to everyone, but communication is key. I'm lucky to have a husband who doesn't let me do all the chores.

3. Take turns in spending

Even when we were still dating, we practiced this. Now that we are married, we continue the same practice. For instance, since my husband bought our dining table, stove, etc., I’m in charge of buying the plates, spoons, etc. For us, taking turns in spending on household items is essential for a harmonious living situation. Not doing so can lead to burnout and stress.

4. Clean eating is a must

Now that we have our own house, we've set rules for balanced eating. For instance, instead of relying too much on canned goods and processed foods, we make time to buy vegetables and fruits, and we also try to exercise on the treadmill. Clean eating can be difficult when you’re living on your own, especially since the temptation to buy fast food and ready-to-eat meals is higher when both of you are busy with day-to-day work.

5. Date day is essential 

Though you live together under the same roof, a date day is still important to keep the spark alive in your relationship. Date days help you reconnect and provide an opportunity to break away from the daily routine.

Special thanks to dear Rhea for this awesome wedding gift: the coffee machine.

Lastly, we have a golden rule in our house: "Happy spouse, happy house." Our married life isn’t perfect, but we always pray to keep God at the center of our marriage.

Staycation At JPark Island Resort & Waterpark Cebu

To celebrate my little sister's birthday, my mom, little sister, husband, and I had a staycation at JPark Island Resort & Waterpark Cebu. It was actually our first time visiting the place, and we are grateful to Kuya Jim (my husband's cousin, who was our official photographer on our wedding day) for the opportunity. Thanks to him, we were able to take advantage of this amazing experience because the Cebu Weddings Supplier team was holding an event, and we luckily received a discount as family members. Isn’t that amazing? Yes, I know.

I don't have everything in life, but having this blessing (the gift of family,
love & to be loved, amazing people) makes me feel rich. I'm beyond grateful for it.

Flexing you all my super amazing sister
(read my blog dedicated to her: Click Here)

What Makes Jpark So Amazing?

While there are many places in Cebu for a staycation, Jpark is unequivocally amazing as it offers plenty of activities. Jpark is perfect for family getaways, providing ample space and a variety of water activities suitable for both children and adults.

1. Water Activities

Great water activities that both kids and adults would truly enjoy: Waterpark Attractions, Beach Activities, Water Sports, and even Poolside Activities.

My husband and sister are both enjoying the water
activities, including the slides and more.

Here's my sister and me enjoying the pool.

2. Recreational Area

There's an amazing thematic and recreational area for kids – their Pororo Park. If you have kids, I highly recommend including the Pororo Park entrance fee in your budget, or even staying at their Pororo Suite; your children will surely love it.

3. Restaurants

There are numerous restaurants to satisfy your cravings after a relaxing day at the beach. You can choose to dine by the beach, by the pool, or even in the hotel dining area.

Left: By the beach; Right: By the pool 
Note: There's more, but these are the only pictures I have.

4. Beautiful Place

An aesthetically beautiful place that offers a great option to enjoy both the pool and the beach.

5. Breakfast

Great breakfast options with its vast cuisine choices, including Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and more.

Note: There's more, but these are the only pictures I have.

Lastly, their rooms are so amazing, and the aesthetics remind me of the hotel we stayed at in Japan.

Book via Klook:

•  Day use: Click Here

•  Room Rates: Click Here

Focus On The Most Important Part Of Your Wedding

Focusing on the most important aspects of your wedding can be incredibly helpful for staying within your budget. By prioritizing what truly matters to you—whether it’s the venue, the food, or the guest experience—you can allocate your resources more effectively and ensure a meaningful, memorable celebration without overspending.

At our wedding reception at Casino Español de Cebu

In our case, we prioritized making sure our chosen guests felt comfortable, that the event was fun and memorable, that the solemnity of the ceremony was maintained, and that everything aligned with our personalities as a couple.

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.

Wedding essentials and some of the bride’s personal items

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.

The groom’s curated collection

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.

Custom-designed table settings

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

We were fortunate to have a veteran photographer and videographer on our team, thanks to our amazing coordinator (Wedding Prelude Event Planning & Coordination). 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 avid travelers, since our love for exploring the world is such a big part of who we are.

9. Host: Sir Jingle Saynes

There are many hosts in town. However, finding one who can deliver exceptionally well is different. Selecting a host who reflects your personality as a couple can also create an unforgettable wedding program.

10. 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!

On a side note, I’d like to commend our decor supplier for doing an exceptional job—he (sir Lorr Aljas) truly worked magic on our venue.

Bride and Groom’s Table | We intentionally requested a
travel-themed touch, since our love for adventure and
discovering new places defines us as a couple.

At the end of the day, it’s all about priorities. To future brides and grooms: don’t pressure yourselves to follow trends or meet everyone else’s expectations. Focus on what truly matters to you as a couple—whether that’s the atmosphere, the people, or the details that reflect your personalities. By making choices that align with your budget and values, you’ll create a day that feels authentic and memorable, and you won’t miss a single meaningful moment.

Note: Our guest list is only about a hundred, including children.

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.

Once you and your future husband have decided on your wedding date and the kind of celebration you want, I suggest setting up a meeting with your wedding coordinator (for us, that’s Wedding Prelude Event Planning & Coordination). Make sure to book the church, reception venue, and hotel as early as possible to avoid any last-minute changes.

Requirements Needed

• Baptismal Certificate

• Confirmation Certificate

• Government Marriage License

• Pre-Cana Seminar

• Canonical Interview

• Marriage Banns

At our wedding reception, featuring the 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

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).

Pre-Cana Is More Than Just A Marriage Requirement

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

"A wedding is a day. A marriage is a lifetime."
Catholic Engaged Encounter Philippines

Lots of people may think that it's just one of the requirements when you get married in a church with your future spouse (guilty of this hehe yes, because that was what I thought before too).

However, let me emphasize that it's more than just a marriage requirement from the church.. After attending the two-day seminar, at The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. I realized many things:

1. It is an assessment of the connection between the two of you as partners. 

Engaged couples may say, we've been together for too long and we know each other already. Hmm, let me tell you this, there are still things that you need to talk about and assess in your relationship be it spiritual aspect, emotional, etc.

2. It is the celebration of your togetherness as a couple.

It is written in the Bible, in John 2:1–12, that Jesus performed the miracle of changing water into wine at a wedding feast in Cana, Galilee.

It is the first miracle that Jesus shows. With this, it simply implies that marriage is sacred and a gift to be cherished.

3. It is a way of inviting God to guide your marriage.

No relationship is perfect, but I believe with God as the center of it, it will work accordingly in his ways. 

4. It is an exposure for couples, as a preparation for married life.

When I say married life, what I mean is a happy married life and a God-centered future family. 

I still have a lot of things to say, but I guess it's good if you experience it firsthand. So, I'm using my platform to encourage all the engaged couples there to have their Pre-Cana at The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

     The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Trivia: Did you know that Kryz Uy and Slater Young's
church wedding was held here as well? Absolutely, you read that right!

Why at Sacred The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus?

• It’s well organized and fun, and at the same time, engaged couples can learn a lot. I guess it’s almost the same as others, yet it feels different in some ways, according to my married friends.

• It's a two-day seminar. Probably you might wonder why, actually it's not enough for all the activities, sharing, and lessons that you will both learn that would enhance your relationship more.

• On the second day of the pre-Cana seminar, there will be a special Mass for the engaged couples, which is the most unique aspect I haven’t encountered elsewhere.

• For the inclusion of your payment: (each couple will have ) Snacks (morning & afternoon), Lunch, Water and Unlimited Coffee (amazing isn't it?)

Are couples who will not be wed at The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus welcome?

• Yes, everyone is welcome. 

• Based on our experience, in our group, there are couples who came from outside Cebu, as well as couples who will be wed in other churches in Cebu.

Special thanks to Tita Vilma & Tito Beni ♥

Note: Just a quick fact, Tita Vilma and Tito Beni are the power couple who facilitates the pre-cana seminar in The Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, also they are the lovely parents of Marco Alcaraz and the parents-in-law of Precious Lara Quigaman.

Thank you so much to the whole team. ♥

(From left to right) It's Tito Dhackie & Tita Maagne, 
Tito Tim & Tita Susan (who came from Manila and traveled
to Cebu to attend April 2024 CEE SHP Cebu),
Tito Beni & Tita Vilma and Fr. Cesar..

                 

This is us (one of our engagement photos).
The future Mr. & Mrs. D at Fujikawaguchiko on our engagement shoot. ♥

"Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." - Mark 10:9

Testimony of Faith: Feeling Blessed at Thirty

God's redirection is a blessing. Trust the process.

Highly-favored to celebrate my 30th post-birthday in JAPAN. Thank you father! Glory & praises. 

At Odaiba Tokyo, Japan

Promised myself that I'll celebrate my 30th birthday in a kiddie-party way at Jollibee (coz it plays big role to my childhood, it's my lil'sis & I's favorite fast food and yes prolly the best way to reminisce childhood sweet memories), but the heavenly father never fail to surprise me. He gave a major twist and brought me to another "J" place to celebrate my post birthday (my post birthday celebration & my fiancé's birthday celebration since we are both January babies, our double birthday celebration, our 3rd time celebrating our birth month out of the country) – to the land of the rising sun, Japan.

Then I remembered, before, I was hoping to go to Star City in Manila but he took me to Universal Studios–Singapore (not just once, but twice) and Tokyo–Disneyland (the least that I expect as applying VISA to Japan is quite difficult, and we did it without invitation or so). I was hoping to visit The Grand Canal in Taguig but he took me (first, since I went both) to The Grand Canal in Macau. I was hoping to go to Manila to try train, but he took me to Singapore for my first ever train ride.

Bonus! I said YES to marry my long-time partner in front of Mt. Fuji (which I never expected in my entire life).

This is not to brag but to share his greatness. Indeed! His plans are always the best.

My life is not perfect, but I am greatly humbled that I have big God who can turn impossible things to possible. 

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 

Lastly, let me share my favorite bible verses:

• Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself also in the LORD and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”

• Mark 11:24 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."

• Jeremiah 29:11 ‘For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

• Isaiah 60:22 says, " When the time is right I, The Lord, will make it happen." 

 

God bless us all! xoxo ♥