Of Budgeting... Then and Now

I'm kinda feeling nostalgic again, reminiscing about the time when I started with our wedding preps. It was about these same days last year when Enrique and I started setting up our budget.

In the beginning, when I wasn't part of the weddings at work community, I didn't know much about the suppliers (all our current suppliers were unknown to me!). All we thought of was to initially have our wedding either in Tagaytay or in Sanctuario de San Antonio/Makati Shang. And of course, my gown by Dennis Lustico. However, when I started "excel-ing" our budget, I was shocked to see a fat figure in the bottom line. And I said... no way. There should be some way of bringing that figure down to a yoga-like body. To make things worse, my budget was really wrong... e.g. 10k budget for a photo/video. Hello? Where can I get that? It only meant that my "budget," amid it being a little high (for me) already, was not even good enough.

Good thing I joined the community of brides and wives. I am able to stick to the original budget without adding more. Well actually... we are a little below our budget (clap clap clap!), and we are contented with it!

I really like to thank these people in particular who helped me get our suppliers:

1. Fernwood - Thanks to Arlene for dragging me to look at Fernwood. Before going there I didn't want the place because of its high rates. But when I did, I knew it was the one for us.

2. Veluz Reyes - Con Con! She was the one who talked to Veluz (among other suppliers) on my behalf and convinced me to book her. I'm glad I did.

3. Archie Paungan - Thanks Glo and Anne! Not only did I find a photog/videog, I have found a new friend as well.

4. Boy Mahusay - Though he was one of my prospect florists, it was Con's convincing power that made me go to Dangwa. And boy, Enrique was so happy with him.

5. Tet Hagape - Marj and Maricel were the two powerbrides who helped me decide to get Tet for our entourage gowns.

6. Angie Cruz & Ogie Rayel - Both were the HMUA of Maybelle, and she was kind enough to suggest to me to consider the duo because not only is their work fabulous, but their rates were really good as well!

7. Other suppliers I considered / got - I really have to mention this.... Thank you very much Jen S. for helping me everyday when it comes to the whole preps thing and experiences. It was her who most of the time went with me to meet our prospects. I am just so glad she became my friend.

*Sigh* Six more months..... can't hardly wait.