Saturday, March 27, 2010

One Month

A month had passed since we said "I Do". One month after all that fervent preparations and breath-stopping anticipation. One month of discovering the wonders of this new state of life and unraveling each day with an open mind towards this whole experience.

When my parents told me that it is a lot of work, they really meant it. Constant adjustment is mandatory and compromise is a must. There are these little things that when added up are also significant. Like waking up earlier in the morning to prepare my mister's morning coffee and lunch, doing laundry together once or every other week, waiting for each other (even if I'm already hungry) to have meals together, making a feasible weekly/monthly budget, plus apartment hunting and furniture shopping; the list just goes on and on.

Being his misis is a full-time job, indeed. Can you believe that I'm saying this considering we're not even together for more than thirty consecutive days? But we're both aware that we still have tons to learn from each other.

All I know now is that married life is not always easy but living it is surely worthwhile.

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Wedding Day Musings III - That Wedding Photographer

Given the church plus the reception (my groom, of course!), wedding photography is one of my top priorities. Well, because it’s the only proof of how memorable that day was for us and to entrust somebody to document our moments, we say that Aaron Willcox did an exceptional job (‘great’ is such an understatement!).

I spent an ample amount of time scouting for that perfect fit. You see, I’m in love with photography and I want my style/preference be reflected on the accounts of our special day. I enjoy staring at happy pictures. I admire those that have the power to catch it in one single snap. Those still-framed reality, overflowing with unrehearsed and raw emotions. I saw Aaron’s portfolio and I was awed by his perception of life. But what made me 100% sure of him was his personality and professionalism – the total package any bride/groom could ever asked for!

We did our engagement photos (a.k.a. prenup) sometime in October. We had lots of fun that Vince and I didn’t even thought that we’re really having this pictorial for our guestbook. We’re relaxed and every shot came naturally. When we saw the end product, our jaws dropped (that’s how amazing he is!).

After constant emails and phone calls, came the big day. He was there in the hotel until the reception and he covered from the preparation till our dance presentation. We didn’t even seem to be bothered though we had a strict timeline. Everything went so smooth and casual.

And I guess that’s a sign of a good photographer – the one who’s independent and would let you be yourself, doesn’t do unnecessary gimmicks, doesn’t pressure you with the flow of the day, removes the ‘extra cheese’ (you know what I mean!); yet takes hella good care of you (and your big day) by relying on his own talent.

*for the complete set of our official wedding photos, please click this link*

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Wedding Day Musings II - That Mission Church

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala – that quaint white church protruding on the hill; the oldest of the entire Dominican-founded missions in California. I had my first encounter of this church sometime in 2007, even before I met Vince. I told myself with certainty; “this is where I’m going to get married”.

It’s small, with no stained glass, no shiny altar, and no crystal chandelier. I fell in love with its ancient looks, intimate/solemn feel, and its dramatic lighting; quite rich in history, with brick floors, wooden carved doors, and hand-painted walls - to me it’s just so perfect.

We were worried that we won’t be able to reserve this venue due to time constraint but the Lord heard my plea.

Our ceremony was held at 10 o’clock in the morning (yes, that early!). It was so rainy; the streets are wet and the traffic was a little congested. Nevertheless, our guests were already anticipating for us and we’re still on time. Shortly after, the procession started.

There was a brief pause then came my turn. Because it was pouring so hard, my dream of entering the doors as it swing wide open to the tune of my bridal march didn’t materialize. Though, something even better happened.

I walked from the side (where they hid me inside the cozy confessional), with the wind blowing my veil softly and delicately as I moved through the center for the aisle – (I know) it was surreal. It gave me goosebumps of sheer delight. My feet began to step rhythmically to the piano notes of Ate Reg’s “Pangarap ko Ang Ibigin Ka” – my dream piece! Unlike most brides that get nervous during their entrance, all I sensed that instant was pure serenity. Everything around me faded as I rummaged around for that one familiar face.


And there he was, waiting with his welcoming wide smile, my beloved groom.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Wedding Day Musings I - That Long White Dress

They say that each wedding is different. They come in all shapes and sizes (and price tags!), all because every bride and groom has their own tastes. On Saturday, it’ll be a month since mine took place. To better heighten the excitement of the countdown, I will (try to) recount my big day.

I want to start off with my wedding dress.

When I was a kid I never imagined how it would be unlike other little girls who’ve been dreaming their own version of ‘happily ever after’ since the time they’ve been exposed to the idea of wedding. I’m aware that it’s going to happen but to picture it, nah I’m more technical than that. But to my surprise (and because of my obsessive love of wearing dresses), I had picked my couturier even before I got engaged.

I’m just impressed on how meticulous Filipino designers are; it was a crazy idea but right there and then I knew I wanted my dress made in the Philippines. My designer is
Joel Bautista and I found him online (after countless of searches!). I saw his sketches and learned about his craftsmanship; what made me convinced to commission him was his professionalism. We only corresponded through emails and yet when I came back to Pinas (after four months of knowing him), my gown was exquisitely finished.

Until now I could still remember how I felt exactly when I first tried it on. The feeling of that overwhelming excitement just made me (and my bestfriend) teary-eyed. Moreso, I’d never forget how proud I was when I wore it on February 27. It seemed like all eyes were on me when I marched down the aisle, waiting for me to sashay on my beautiful white gown. That very moment, I could claim that I have been a bride.

*joel, i could never thank you enough*