Supplier’s Rating: Val Villarin

Dear Online Diary,

I learned about Mama Val through W@Wies who raved (and still raving) about his works and techniques. Looking at his portfolio, I like that each of his brides has a clean, natural airbrush finish. I thought I wouldn’t be able to get his services until I won one of the packages he donated to W@W via W@W Auction last year.

Last June, we agreed to hold the trial airbrush makeup in line with our engagement session to put the makeup to the test. It was the first time I met him in person. He (and his shi tzu, MAC) warmly welcomed us. While working, Mama Val went on to explain what each make up do to my face and appearance, which shade of lipstick will work best for me and so on. Here’s our photo right after the trial makeup session:

{Airbrush Trial Makeup with Mama Val, June 2010}

Supplier’s Rating: Marc Rancy

Dear Online Diary,

I did not expect to get Marc Rancy as my gown designer before the whole gown horror story but I came to know Marc and his elegant gowns when I watched one of the Philippine Fashion Week shows. When we decided to get a reputable designer for my wedding gown, Marc was one of the top on my list.

Despite his busy schedule, we were able to set an appointment with him. It was last July when mama Betty, Ninang Fely and I went to his shop in Buendia. He’s bubbly and fun to talk to. Kalog talaga siya. :)) He let me try some of the gowns available so I could see which type would look best on me. He also gave us a couple of tulle “wisdom” and showed us his precious collection. Here’s my gown by Marc Rancy:

11.9.2010: My First Birthday as a Mrs.

Dear Online Diary,

Yes, it's my first birthday as a wifey today and I was touched to see hubby’s surprises for me this morning.

I was awaken by a Happy Birthday song playing loudly (somehow gave me the chills since papa Noel used to do the same on each family member's birthday). I thought I'll see hubby beside me but I found a gift with a funny note:

{Hubby's gift on my first birthday as his wifey}

He suddenly appeared and said that he has plans for us today so I better get going. I just want to share how sweet he is. :))

X.O.X.O.,



PS:
Thank you to everyone who did not forget to greet me on my birthday (aka friends in FB). I've read all your messages but will reply later. Earvz, not so sure why you can't post on my wall but will check on it later, too. Probably there's something about my account setting that I have to adjust. Happy Nov 9 everyone! :))

Supplier’s Rating: Ms. Thet Hernandez of RTJ Photography

I can remember it clearly as if it happened just yesterday: I was browsing our W@W e-group when a certain post caught my attention – a free backup photography service was being offered by a previous W@Wie, by the name of Ms. Thet Hernandez, who ventured into photography together with her husband. I composed an email and sent it with prayers. In a heartbeat, my prayer was answered by an email from Ms. Thet congratulating us for making it to the list. True enough, our wedding date was posted on their website.

{We made the list: RTJ Photography Service}

Supplier’s Rating: Sophia’s Chocolat

Dear Online Diary,

I was glad (and relieved) to have found Sophia’s Chocolat while browsing multiply.com. We were a bit stressed during the homestretch of our wedding preps because we haven’t found the right giveaways for our PS and entourage.

Sophia’s belgian chocolates are not too sweet nor bitter. Our parents love the chocolates (as much as we love them) when we brought some for them to taste test. Sophia’s offers different kinds of packaging and molds on reasonable prices. It was a breeze negotiating with Sir Alex and Ms. Michelle, the husband-and-wife tandem behind Sophia’s Chocolat.

{During our first meeting: Thank you, Sophia's Chocolat! :))}