In Between The Lines

Been A While

2008-07-31T00:38:00.005+01:00

It has been a while since I update the blog. Have been pretty busy and internet was a bit nuts these few days. Let me refresh what have I done for the past weeks? Andy came to Cardiff, Kelvin came to Cardiff, Andy is due to come again tomorrow, and I have watched Dark Knight, Kenneth's 21st and a few more tipsy and drunken nights again. LOL!

I'll post up some photos tomorrow. Time to hit the bed now.
Some photos that was taken in Bar Orient during Kenneth's 21st. Me and my babes cam-whoring! LOL!

The Songs

2008-07-15T16:59:00.005+01:00

The two songs' lyrics posted previously were the songs that were played during our wedding. First was "Amazing Grace" which was a hymn played while we all sing to the music while Josh Groban's "When You Say You Love Me" was played when we were signing the papers. I forgot how many times it was played, but it was practically playing till we finish with all the paper works. LOL!

Well, time flies, I gotta get ready and run to work in a bit. Oh! Guess what, I am a little pissed. The LV bag that I wanted had have a price increase. 15 quid not a lot but still, it would have been less if I bought it a month earlier. @#*&^T!&@)*#*&@##@U(*&*@#&(
So angry!!!!

And after telling Mr Yeap, he doesn't help much by telling me "See, asked you to buy earlier?" Sigh! O!*#&(*#(*@#&(*@#()#(@*#)*)( I am going to be pissed. Somebody is getting it real bad!!!

When You Say You Love Me

2008-07-15T04:24:00.002+01:00

When You Say You Love Me

Like the sound of silence calling,
I hear your voice and suddenly
I'm falling, lost in a dream.
Like the echoes of our souls are meeting,
You say those words and my heart stops beating.
I wonder what it means.
What could it be that comes over me?
At times I can't move.
At times I can hardly breathe.

When you say you love me
The world goes still, so still inside and
When you say you love me
For a moment, there's no one else alive

You're the one I've always thought of.
I don't know how, but I feel sheltered in your love.
You're where I belong.
And when you're with me if I close my eyes,
There are times I swear I feel like I can fly
For a moment in time.
Somewhere between the Heavens and Earth ,
And frozen in time, Oh when you say those words.

When you say you love me
The world goes still, so still inside and
When you say you love me
For a moment, there's no one else alive

And this journey that we're on.
How far we've come and I celebrate every moment.
And when you say you love me,
That's all you have to say.
I'll always feel this way.

When you say you love me
The world goes still, so still inside and
When you say you love me
In that moment,I know why I'm alive

When you say you love me.
When you say you love me.
Do you know how I love you?

Amazing Grace

2008-07-15T04:19:00.001+01:00

Amazing Grace Hymn

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me...
I once was lost but now am found
Was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught...
My heart to fear
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear...
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...
We have already come.
T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...
And Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be...
As long as life endures.

When we've been here a thousand years...
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise...
Than when we've first begun.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me...
I once was lost but now am found
Was blind, but now I see.

One Week After Being Married

2008-07-15T03:56:00.002+01:00

I have been posting photos hell a lot of photos for the past one week. Been so busy editing the brightness, contrast and the basic things of all the photos that Sky and Aric has taken that day. I was blessed to have two skillful photographers to capture the moments of the day. I am very grateful in fact. Anyways, one week being married, the only difference is that I have an extra ring on my fourth finger of my left hand. Besides, nothing has changed much. Oh! And to have another Mom and another sister in my family, that's an addition. We live together anyway, before and after marriage, so I guess I am used to running the chores and sort things out like the way it used to be.

Anyways, thanking everyone, from Vicar Keith for all the efforts, advice given to make this wedding successful, all the staffs at Gilby's especially Arlene who had been very patient with me taking me instructions, Sky (day time photographer) and Aric (night time photographer) as well as my brother, who walked me down the aisle, and those who had attended the wedding. Thanks a zillion!

Second batch of photos from other attendees' cameras can hopefully be collected by end of this week. I hope so too and I would be able to post some up here and the rest of the album on Facebook. Please drop your messages on my chatbox if you happened to stumble across the website. And you can leave it with any names. :)

Thanks.

The Most Important Paper Of My Life

2008-07-15T02:19:00.004+01:00

The Certificate of BannsThe Certificate of Banns. Some might know what the heck I am saying, but to be married, you are usually married by license through the civil registration process. So it is like, publicising your intention to get marry in the local offices of your residential area for 21 days before you are actually allow to get married. However, if you are getting married in the church, you are being married by banns. This meant that the priest would call the banns (intention to get marry) in the church three Sundays in a row during the Sunday services. After three announcements and there is no objection, you will be produced a certificate of banns. (Just in case you both reside in two different parish, you will need show it to the priest to prove that banns has been called.
Tadahhh!!! Here is mine and hubby's and as we both live in the same premise, we only have one certificate and it mentioned both our names.

The Certificate of Marriage

The most important paper of my life, the few signatures that I had made on the 8th of July 2008, the date I willremember for the rest of my life. This date signifies that I am no longer a girl, I am a lady now! I am a wife, the wife of Mr Eng Soon Yeap. LOL! I am now known as Mrs Yeap now. You can see the name of the church that we registered at, the date, our names, our age when we got married (exact age according to your birth date), our occupations, our addresses, our dad's names and their occupations. After we signed the papers, our witnesses of marriage, the best man, Andy and the maid of honour, Michelle had to sign it. Michelle's signature was AS STILL AS 10 years ago. It never changed!! LOL!

The Wedding Booklet

2008-07-15T00:14:00.004+01:00

This is a copy of the wedding booklet that were given out to the guests who attended the wedding ceremony at the church. Some of them might not have got it because we haven't got enough copies as we never thought that so many people would have turned up for the ceremony. I was grateful for all of you who attended the wedding ceremony but I apologised if you didn't get a copy during the wedding service.

And we both would like to thank Keith for the effort that she has put in into making this booklet. It was marvelous effort and a great job. Thanks!!

It was nicely typed and done in a half A4 sized booklet with a slip of the lyrics of "Amazing Grace" in the middle of the page. There were some errors with the lyrics by the end, but it was MY OWN FAULT as I printed them myself and I didn't re-check to ensure that they are all correct. LOL!

Real Copy of Menu and Drinks List

2008-07-14T23:58:00.003+01:00

The Drinks List Page
The Menu Page

This is a copy that Gilby's has given me and I kept a copy of it till that. Thus, I posted it online to show you. LOL! On my crappy bed sheet, not the real table cloth @ Gilby's.

The Menu, Drinks and Wine List

2008-07-14T23:37:00.003+01:00

TO START

Soup of the day – Tomato and Basil Soup

Gilby’s Favourite Prawn Cocktail Salad

Smoked Salmon and Trout Mousse, Cucumber Relish and Dressed Leaves

Grape and Perl Wen Cheese Tart with Rocket Salad

Smoked Chicken Salad Nicoise Style, Fine Beans, Potato, Olives and Sun Blushed Tomato

MAIN COURSE

Roast Rump of Welsh Lamb with Potato and Black Pudding Gratin, Creamed Leeks and Thyme Jus

Pan Fried Fillet of Mullet with Crushed Dill Potato, Mussel and Garlic Ragu

Roast Chicken and Bacon Caesar Salad, Anchovies, Parmesan and Croutons

Mushroom and Blue Cheese Strudel, Parsnip and Apple Puree, Buttered New Potatoes

Gilby’s Fish and Chips with Pea Puree

PUDDING

Trio of Profiteroles (Orange and Ginger Syrup, Toffee Sauce and Chocolate Sauce)

Chocolate Duet (Chocolate cone filled with Ganache. Almond Biscuit and Chocolate Ice Cream)

Vanilla Pannacotta, Strawberry Consommé and Mint Syrup

Pimms Jelly with Lime Sorbet

Apple Strudel with Crème Anglaise

Raspberry Bavarois, Fruit Coulis and Shortbread

Tiramisu, Crème Anglaise and Fresh Raspberries

Selection of Ice Cream and Sorbets

Baked Alaska

COFFEE OR TEA

DRINKS LIST

Merlot, Clairières, Languedoc 2006

Shiraz Cabernet, Punta Negra, San Juan, Argentina 2007

Sauvignon Blanc, Moreau, Vin de Pays d’Ôc 2006

Chardonnay, Valle Andino, Chile 2007

Selections of Lager and Beer

Soft Drinks to include:

Coke

Diet Coke

Lemonade

J20

Appletizer

Fruit Juices

This is how the menu looks like, but just imagine it, back and front on a cream coloured paper, which was printed by Gilby's and placed a few on the tables. I have a copy and I will take some photos to post it up on to show you. Lovely idea but unfortunately the papers were soft and they weren't able to stand properly, thus they were only lying nicely on the tables. It would have been better if they could have printed it on hard papers. But, it's alright I guess. Not that important so long as people can refresh their brain on what they are having for dinner.

The Reception's Photographer

2008-07-14T19:40:00.004+01:00

Aric and Me, posing in front of the camera

My reception's photographer. He did it all out of the love for me and Eng Soon as well as the love for the camera. I really appreciate it. The photos were fantastic but I kinda like pissed him off as my joke went too far. Long story short, I shot him and said that photos were 70% blur but I didn't mean it. As we usually played around, he would scold me for a while but I'll laugh and so on. However, it didn't turn out the way it was as he was a little in a bad mood and I continued on MSN without knowing and kinda like pissed him off a BIG BIG TIME.

I apologised, and from the bottom of my heart, I actually love the photos very much and I thought that it was perfect even though he was not a professional photographer. Thanks for all the photos taken. I am sorry, once again.

UK Reception's Crowd Candid Snapshots

2008-07-14T19:02:00.034+01:00

Welcoming the guests and making them comfortable asking them to order any drinks or place their food order if they had yet pre-order.

Never notice he was holding the camera except for the groom.

Standing and watching out for all the guests and see if everyone is alright. Looking for Richard who is lost in no where. Damn! He went MIA in the middle of the dinner. It's like WTF is up his head? Left the table without saying a word.

Enjoying our main course. Lovely!! Mine was a fish while Baby's a lamb.

Where is my baby girl gone? LOL!

My coursemates and some friends of Baby who happened to knew each other as they work in the same workplace.

Gigi and Dai chatting and talking away.

Uncle Mike, Aunt Jane, Lloyd, Uncle Koe and Aunt Rose on the same table chatting.

Excuse me, I need to go to the toilet and look for my brother.
Baby thinking in his head, "Where TF is he??"

Me getting a bit irritated because the brother got MIA. Stupid kid.

Uncle Chong and his children dropped by for a drink and chatted with Uncle Mike, Uncle Koe and Nic who is our indirect match-maker. LOL! We got to know each other through Nic.

My current boss, Wendy and her daughter Grace and my colleagues, Sky, Three, Kevin and Nathan.

Nyak nyak nyak. All chatting. Nic looks as though he was explaining how the atom works. LOL!

Me snapping candid snapshots, caught in action and Hugh Pak, B Koh and Ah Sou's table. B Koh's mouth looks as though something got stucked there. LOL!

The Happy Gathering crowd.

Mom's friends from Yew Lian, Aunt Betty, Kin Sai and John.

Mom and Jenna near Aggie, Ron, John, Kin Sai and Tina eating and munching through their starters.

Kenneth, Ken, Siew Li, Derrick, Ming Dee, Aric, Melissa, Wei Min and Debbie on the table on the other end.

A view on the crowd.

My mates mingling around while awaiting their food to be served. Melissa was playing around with Aric's camera.

Gigi, Dai, Charles and Christine and Amy's table on the other end.

Mom's friends around the table waiting to be served, taking photographs.

Chiew Koh, Seh Zai, Franky, Eileen, BB and their families, the crazy hangout group caught on camera.

The bosses all caught on camera. LOL!

Seating plan all stated on the white board for the convenience of the organisers and the guests.

Post Wedding Mess

2008-07-14T17:37:00.007+01:00

Andy: I am so late. But my head hurts so badly. I am sooooo late. WHYYY??? HOW???
And yet he was still lying in bed uttering all that out. LOL! I wonder why and how as well, how will he not be late but still bugging around the bed. Indeed we all wonder.

The ONLY WINNER on that day. The mess she caused are all around her. And you can see her texting his boyfriend. Oh yeah, she was the ONLY WINNER because she WAS THE ONLY ONE who made it for the scheduled train (according to plans and her tickets). The rest of them are either reluctant to leave or late because weren't sober enough.

Richard: I don't want to go back. I want to stay in Cardiff some more.
Sigh. He delayed his journey two hours later as he reluctantly left.

The mess after the havoc created after the reception with four people sleeping in the living room.

Andy: Colin leh? Colin leh?
Three times he asked the same question and we did tell him that he has left but then still repeatedly, he asked and asked. Sigh. Anyways, after asking some questions, he just ran around the beds blur. Actually, he was still drunk from all the drinks the night of the wedding.
That's why, "yam seng" again. See if you dare to "yam seng" when you come to Cardiff again.

Pre-Wedding Stress and Mess

2008-07-10T15:15:00.009+01:00

Stressed out choosing which tie, which suit and which shirt to wear.

Michelle giving her opinions and ideas.

Reluctant to even take a photo and screamed, "I don't like to take photos!!"

She created even more mess for my room with all her things all around the room.

Discussing about the shirts, the ties and the suits and how and where and which.

Posers in the room

The tie doesn't match the suit at all. Aiks, the pants and the jacket are different.

The mess that my brother created, by throwing all his clothes around every year.

The duvets that I aired around the living room pilled up together to make some space for me to make flowers and some room for the boys to watch TV.

The Wedding Helpers

2008-07-10T14:17:00.008+01:00

This is a THANK YOU message to all of the people who had contributed their time and effort in helping in the running of the whole wedding ceremony. REALLY THANK YOU! But, don't worry, if your photo isn't here, I thank you lot as well for making this day merry and joyous and so memorable. Each of your presence signifies a different meaning in our lives.
The man who made the wedding very very successful , Vicar Keith. Thank you for everything, Keith. We really appreciate all the efforts, time , help and advice . It would not have been this way without all your help. From L-R: Kevin, Eng Soon, Lee Ling, Sky and Three
I can't a single photo of Three and us alone, because he didn't want to take photos at all. So reluctant to. He helped Sky carried her camera's bag all around, and spread some confetti, as well as being at the door waiting for late-comers, visitors to let them know that they need to keep quiet as there is a wedding going on. Thanks Three! You were handy and helpful!

The photographer, Sky and me. She did a great job. Appreciate your time and effort very much. These photos are all taken by her. All the day time photographs. It was indeed a good job, but need to edit some pictures, some minor changes.

Kevin, who helped to operate the MP3 player for all the songs before the ceremony, procession of the bride and groom wedding hymns and co-ordinate with Keith. The technical dude, and also the driver of the my photographer who forgot his keys when we sent him to his car. OMG! I know!

The Next Bride to Be

2008-07-10T12:41:00.002+01:00

The lucky girl who caught the bouquet that night at the reception. She looks really stunning on that day itself. She really really does. And we met in Debenhams the day before where she was searching for her dress for the day. Love the dress and she looks amazingly beautiful in this photo. The best, I have on my record! :)

I present to you, my sister-in-law, Jenna Yeap. The next bride to be. LOL!
And she insisted that her brother and I PURPOSELY threw it at her. I swear I never intended that, and I swear we are not lying!

The True Story About Our Wedding Flowers

2008-07-10T11:12:00.011+01:00

My hand bouquet, twelves champagne roses and some leaves ( I don't know what it is called). LOL! And oh, guess how much is my cost price? Everything I DIY.

Maid of Honour's corsages, slightly bigger than the groom's and the best man's as she is a lady and she can carry a bigger ribbon much better than those men. LOL!

Groom's and Best Man's corsages, cute and small.

The silver bows for the car made by my brother. I have the idea, but had no clue how to make it yet. So, he said he would do it as I was running out of time as it was close to 11p.m. that time at I have to pick Michelle up from the Central and I had so much more to do at hands. ARGHH!!!
Alright, the truth, ribbons are 83 pence each and I bought three, totaling GBP2.49 and the roses cost me GBP6.99 from Tesco, big bud roses and those papers and plastics I used are given together with the roses as their packaging. The tapes, the safety pins, the needle and thread I had them all along and those green leaves are recycled from a bouquet that my hubby bought from M&S a few months ago for me. So I left them in the jar of water and continue to feed it with light and water so it remained alive. On that day, I finally cultivated them. LOL! So basically, taking all the recycling ideas and at a minimal budget, I did it. I did all the corsages and my big brother helped me with the bows and the hand bouquet. Simply marvelous! Actually, the silver bows were done by him. I just merely suggest ideas, he came up with how to do it.

:) From the bottom of my heart, I LOVE YOU BRO!!! AND THANKS FOR EVERYTHING!!!

P/S: This is what has happened to the end result of my living room. Prior to me making all the things, the living room was clean and in order. Not really in order, cause I was putting all the duvet covers all around to dry it quick.

The Wedding Car

2008-07-10T10:50:00.006+01:00

Check out the bow on my side of the door. There's an identical one on the other side as well. Silver blends in well with gray. My brother made them with me while I was making the corsages for the groom, best man and the maid of honour. Gotta zoom in to see!

Up-close shot near the Cardiff Museum.

Us with the wedding car, my hubby's RX8. It was lush!

The Wedding Ceremony

2008-07-10T02:58:00.041+01:00

One photo of us while preparing before the ceremony starts.

Receiving some final advice from Vicar Keith with the best man, Andy next to him.

Being typical Lee Ling, making sure all goes according to plan before the wedding starts, PERFECTO!

And I walked down the aisle in my brother's arm, accompanied by the song, "Tennessee"

Guided by Keith, it was some slow steps but I had to make sure I don't trip on my dress. LOL! And we were all chatting and laughing all the way down the aisle! That was because I was nervous!

My brother shaking hands and handing over the bride to the groom with the maid of honour behind them.
As we both walked down the aisle together. This was the moment when I felt like a celebrity with more than 10 cameras in front of us flashing!

As all of the attendees take their seats and Keith in position.

As I checked on Aric, Fal, Kenneth and the gang and make sure they come in to get their seats.

This picture is hilarious! Our facial expressions were so candid!
Groom: I am hungry and thirsty.
Bride: Errrrrr...... What???

The happy Eng Soon. Awwwwww!!! He was laughing in the most cute manner!

As we both sit in the middle of the crowd and listening to Keith preach about marriage, love and asked if anyone wants to object to this marriage.

Aggie reading a scripture from the bible, St. Paul's letter to the Ephesians (5:21-33)

As we both read our way through as if we are going to sit for an exam! But we were actually singing "Amazing Grace" at that time accompanied by the music. It was a meaningful and it all described all his feelings through that hymn.

The right audiences, our colleagues, friends, ex-colleagues and my university mates.

Ooopss! Bow almost undone, but as we both stand in front of Keith for the REAL marriage ceremony. The TOUCHY AND MUSHY stuffs we were about to say before the Lord. Our declarations of marriage.

Keith: Eng Soon, will you have Lee Ling, to be your wife? Will you live with her in obedience to God's will and purpose? Will you love her, honour her and care for her, in sickness and in health? Will you be faith to her and her alone, as long as you both live?
Eng Soon: I will.

Keith: Lee Ling, will you have Eng Soon, to be your husband? Will you live with him in obedience to God's will and purpose? Will you love him, honour him and care for him, in sickness and in health? Will you be faith to him and him alone, as long as you both live?

As he held my hand and he said his vow to me in front of the Lord and all that are there witnessing the marriage.

I, Eng Soon, take you Lee Ling, to be my wife,
To have and to hold,
From this day forward,
For better for worse,
For richer for poorer,
In sickness and in health,
To love and cherish,
As long as we both shall live,
According to the will and purpose of God.
And to this I give you my pledge.

Honestly, at this moment, my eyes were reddish and watery. I just felt so touched. Even though we have practised several times and also during the rehearsal it was just a complete different feeling, I can see it from his eyes, his promise, his love to me. Honestly, it just felt so magical!

And as I give him my vows, before the Lord and I was pretty nervous as I am afraid to screw up in case I forget the words. During the rehearsal, I got stucked at the same line, thrice! But, it all went well.

I, Lee Ling, take you Eng Soon, to be my husband,
To have and to hold,
From this day forward,
For better for worse,
For richer for poorer,
In sickness and in health,
To love and cherish,
As long as we both shall live,
According to the will and purpose of God.
And to this I give you my pledge.

As we hold the rings on the Priest's book and Keith gave some blessings to the rings.
Keith: O Lord, these Rings, given and received as a sign of love and faithfulness.
All: Amen

As he slipped the ring onto my fourth finger on my left hand and holding it to say "Receive this Ring in token of my love and faithfulness. I honour you with my body, And all my possessions I share with you."

*Evilly thinking, HAHAHAAH! I'm rich!! He's sharing his properties with me. LOL! The RX8, the house, the money! AHHAHAH!*

So I said, "I receive this Ring as a sign of the love and faithfulness between us."

And vice versa, he gets to evilly think again like me. But honestly, I didn't thought of it that way during the ceremony. HHAHAHAH! It is just post ceremony I thought so.

"Receive this Ring in token of my love and faithfulness. I honour you with my body, And all my possessions I share with you." said Lee Ling to Eng Soon.

Eng Soon was supposed to reply, "I receive this Ring as a sign of the love and faithfulness between us."BUT, he got stucked in replying me, at the SAME EXACT PART I GOT STUCKED! I got stucked thrice during the rehearsal and he just did it!! Maybe my negative psychic power went sideways! LOL!

And Keith went on to announce us as HUSBAND AND WIFE.
"As Eng Soon and Lee Ling have consented together in marriage, and have made their pledge to one another before God and this congregation, and have declared it by joining of hands, and by giving and receiving of rings, I declare that they are now HUSBAND AND WIFE. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

And some little blessing were said by Keith with meaningful words like live together and everlasting life as he held our right hands together and tied it up. Unity of one.

And we stopped and pause for a while to do the bureaucratic stuffs, signing the MOST IMPORTANT SIGNATURE OF OUR LIVES. People said, that is like a sales and purchase agreement that you signed up for life. Signing your life away to be shared. LOL! Just kidding!

Eng Soon was thinking in his head, "After signing, there goes my life, a married man. Gone! Everything gone, have to give her everything, cherish her, finish! All gone!!"
LOL! I made it up. But I guess he was thinking, there goes my life, stucked to a fierce girl.

Lee Ling thought to herself, "I'm rich. WAHAHHAH! After signing this paper, I'm rich. Hmm... What's first to get on my list?"
LOL! Frankly speaking, I was just thinking to myself okay, don's shake, it will be reflected on your signature if you keep shaking. I was so nervous all the way throughout the ceremony!

As Michelle and Andy signed the registrar as witnesses of marriage, we took some time off cam-whoring. And during the registrar signed, the song, "When You Say You Love Me" by Josh Groban was playing all along as we signed our papers.

And Sky bought some time while we wait for Keith to sort out the final parts of the registration.

And as we both stand in front of the Lord before walking out, the procession of bride and groom. So we waited for the music and Keith said we can walk out as soon as we are ready. And we played "Thank God I Found You" by Mariah Carey. Because we are married now, so we have found each other!

As we stepped out from the door little door before the altar. I was watching my step. LOL!The dress is too long.

Us walking up the aisle with the song.

Posing for the cameras again! And Andy and Michelle was walking behind us. LOL! So funny that they had to stopped us and asked us to slow down. Because the camera wasn't quick enough! Hah!

And again while waiting for all guests to come out to the bigger area.

A photo of me and Sommer, so lovely isn't it?

And they say, you may now kiss the bride.

More photos will be uploaded, photos taken after the ceremony in the church, outside the church, when the bride threw the bouquet and the people playing with party popper and confetti. And further photos taken around City Hall and the church, as well as the reception @ Gilby's. Stay tune!

The Church and The Witnesses of Marriage

2008-07-10T02:18:00.008+01:00

The Oldest Church in Cardiff, St. John's The Baptist City Parish

The altar that we both made our vows to each other and being blessed by the Lord.

The glass windows above the altar that we are solemnised.

The aisle that I walked down before meeting my hubby at the door.

The Best Man, Andy and the Maid of Honour, Michelle and they are both the witnesses of our marriage.

The UK's Registration Updates

2008-06-29T21:27:00.004+01:00

Now it is updated and to its most recent news of the UK ceremony.

The church ceremony is at St. John's of Baptist City Parish to start about 3.00 p.m.
Dinner is at Gilby's @ Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff to start about 6.30 p.m.
Whilst, the invitation cards are ready and we are in the midst of delivering them. While the psalm and songs, we are downloading them and hope to burn them onto a CD by the next few days. Besides that, flowers are to be picked up from the florists the day before. I guess that's about it. Menu is finalised next week when the restaurant comes back with a definite menu and to left to the guests to choose and get back to the restaurant.

Whilst, here I upload some pictures of the best man and the maid of honour!

Maid of Honour : Michelle Ong, all the way from Manchester to be the maid of honour. The bride's bestie since they were both 13. Someone who is almost a replica of the bride, herself.

Best Man : Andy, the groom's friend when he was back in Malaysia. A good friend who spent lots of time with him when he was in Malaysia.

Muah Birthday Celebration

2008-06-29T21:15:00.006+01:00

The first picture we took as soon as we were sat down at the table.

After dinner with my complimentary champagne. LOL! I drank all by myself.

Cam whoring in the room while he was doing his hair in the room.

Cam whoring before the surprise dinner in the living room.

Happy Birthday To Me!

2008-06-27T04:44:00.003+01:00

Me with the GIANT CARD next to GIANT PLANT. So unromantic to give plant instead of flowers . But, it is unique. Just like me. HAHAHAH!

Baby becoming a FB whore, in front of the laptop in the room.
I came home from work at approximately 11.58 pm a few minutes prior to my birthday. I was welcomed by my hubby to be, at the door, with a big hug and a big kiss saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Then, I walked towards the living room and my housemate was singing HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!! And it goes on, which was pretty touching. :) Excited!! LOL! And later, at about 5 minutes me sitting in front of the laptop doing my usual stuffs, MSN! My hubby asked me to go into the room to get some cigarettes because he needed one. And then I pointed to the table and said, "Nah! You blind ah? Here got so many packs!" and my housemate replied, "Excuse me, they are mine ok?"And I still ignored him until he asked me to take my shower. So I walked into room to find A HUGE POT on my bed. Wah, the flowers look so plasticy. But it lives on the soil. Why? I'll post the plant's picture tomorrow. Above are some pictures of us pre-celebrating. :) And oh yeah, there's a GIANT card next to plant.

Bridesmaids a.k.a. The Bully Geng

2008-06-27T02:00:00.019+01:00

Here is a list of the bridesmaids that will be tormenting the hell out of the groom and his buddies. LOL! I can't wait to see what will happen on that day. Trust me, these decent girls you see below are nice but EVIL!

Main Bridesmaid : Gina Goh
She will be the main bridesmaid who is the most important of all who knows me inside out. My bestie since I was a kid. We have been friends since forever, since we were first day in Standard 1 till now. :)

Bridesmaid No. 2 : Yuen Munn
The girl that I knew since I was in Standard 4 and she is one energetic girl. I bet she will make the buddies go nuts with energy.

Bridesmaid No. 3 : Jo May
She is quiet but she is one bright little girl that can spark up some ideas. Silent ideas and killer!

Bridesmaid No. 4 : Pei-Lynn
My cousin sister who is the same age as me, who spent lots of time with me as a little girl. She was like my little sister who will company her elder sister being a bride that day.

Bridesmaid No. 5 : Kuan Kee
The hot girl in our group. She is crazy one evil chick most of the time. She is one pretty loud girl that can go nuts.

Bridesmaid No. 6 : Eunice Ooi
This lovely lady who is getting married in December. One time for the girl before she is married to her fiance, to be a bridesmaid. She is nice, but don't overstep the boundary.

Bridesmaid 7 : Bee Bee
The loud and bubbly girl among us all. She can be loud but nice at times. Giggly and funny lady!

Bridesmaid 8 : Abelyn Lim
The nutties among us all. Loud, sharp and evil at all times. No way she is being nice!! LOL!

Bridesmaid 9 : Melissa Tan
Mel is one of my good friends in Cardiff. She is very lady-like but I know that she can be evil at times.

Bridesmaid No. 10 : Rachel Lim
The girl who has the same surname as me in Cardiff. Pretty much similar character as me. But much more lady-like than me.

Some Photos of Ours

2008-06-25T13:11:00.009+01:00

Muscle Man with my bag in front of Sfroza Castello, Milan

Muah in Milan
Roman Bath

Enjoying the sunny sun in Bath

One Night in Cardiff 2008 (Post FOS Event)

Cleaning up the junks in his car

My cool dude in his ride

Photo of us both taken by Aric Wong during Fal and Wai Cheong's Birthday Bash

Photo taken by Aric Wong during Wai Cheong and Fal's Birthday Bash

Slugging Away

2008-06-25T12:56:00.002+01:00

Here I am slugging away in my living room waiting for my fiance to be awake but he is still dozing his sleepyhead away. We will be in town running some errands and then we will be in Gilby's to decide where we want to have our UK reception. The UK's Reception is @ Gilby's but there are two restaurants, one down the bay which is much more convenient for everyone and nearer while the other one is @ Culverhouse Cross. Then, we will finalised everything and next week will be the rehearsal for the wedding. But, we have yet finalised our psalm and prayers. Damn! I think we might just end up a bit "kelam kabut". Wish us luck then. Though, menu has been finalised in UK, wedding car has been finalised, and whilst, the invitation cards are awaiting printing and the hand bouquet and the rest of the things are pretty much sorted honestly. Nothing to be panicked about now.

Just have to sort out these following things:
1. Bridal Procession Songs
2. Songs to be played during the whole ceremony
3. Make the hand bouquets, corsages for the ceremony
4. Printout of invitation cards, menus and cards on the tables
5. Finalised the booking with the restaurant
6. See Vicar Keith for final discussion about the wedding

DIY Card for UK Wedding Reception

2008-06-20T17:23:00.005+01:00

I made this cards myself. LOL! You tell me what you think. The cards are bought from eBay.

Muah New Dress

2008-06-20T17:03:00.003+01:00

Front view. Don't mind the messy room! LOL!

Back view and fooling around with the camera!! LOL!

What do you think??? :) Tell me!!

Wedding Favours in UK

2008-06-18T07:05:00.003+01:00

To have cupcakes to take away or a Lotto ticket? What do you think? Or not have anything at all?
LOL!

Cupcakes have to be done by Aric Wong and it seems so troublesome and have to DIY even though that the cost is cheap. But for cupcakes, I again need a paper bag or box to take away. And once eaten, considered gone!

Lotto ticket (lottery ticket in case you don't know) is reasonably priced and just need to roll it up and tie it with a ribbon and ready to serve. And they might stand a chance to win some cash if lucky!

Which would you choose?

Updates of Cha, Traders Hotel Reception

2008-06-16T22:05:00.003+01:00

Themes: Oriental
Themes Colour: Gold and Cream

While for the reception in Cha, there is going to be a twist from a total western feeling to a more oriental feeling.

Using gold as our main colour for the decorations, we will be keeping thing as minimal as usual. Most other minor things are similar as the reception in SCCC but as the ceiling is pretty low, we will keep everything as in original as in the picture. Don't want to complicate things too much as well.

But now deciding to have pralines or butter cake? We are thinking to have a big cake which we can share with the people in the place as it is few people only. But we are still thinking about it. Hubby likes the idea of having basic cakes and we can use the S-shape stand after we have view it for ourselves how does the stand looks like. But, anyways, I hope it will be all good. If we are having a real cake in this reception, we will choose pralines as our complimentary giveaways to the guests. I too like the idea of REAL CAKE rather than dummy cakes.

Flowers to use would be gaberra, lilies or roses. Depending on what would they offer and then we will decide.

Lee Ling

More Pictures of Cha, Traders Hotel

2008-06-16T22:00:00.006+01:00

To have the tea ceremony here before the dinner starts

Entrance to Cha, Traders Hotel

Sample of main table setting

Sample view of Cha

Updates of SCCC Reception

2008-06-16T21:50:00.002+01:00

As seen from the pictures from previous post, settings would be similar as the pictures added with little touch of my own to create a unique self.
Themes: Romantic
Colour : Cream and Beidge

Stage will be decorated with fairy lights and just our names rather than many other too fancy things. Keep thing minimal and simplified. Probably with rattan balls with fairy light circling around it to give it a touch.

While for the tables, it will be done as seen from the pictures. Choice of flowers would be white roses or lilies. Still in the midst of deciding. But further details will be decided when I am back home to see it for myself.

For the main table floral centerpiece it would be done with white roses or white lilies with candle stands around the table to give it a more romantic ambience.

For the arch, it will be a half arch filled with white roses on each half end of the arch while the branches all on top.

Flower poises will be done with white roses or white lilies. Will not be using any candle along the poise because there will be too many kids around and I do not want to be held responsible if someone burnt their hand. LOL!

Diamonds, plastic confetti are not to be scattered around because kids will destroy them or put them in their mouth. Courtesy intellectual advise from my bestie, Gina, she said then kids will throw them all around on the floor making the place looks messy.

While for confetti to be threw when we are doing the march in, will be using dried flowers, don't want the the fresh flowers go STEPPED and dirty the place. Will use coloured papers and some fresh flowers along the sides of the red carpet. Hope those kids don't play around with them. LOL!

Everything will be done to accommodate those naughty kids because they are pretty a lot of them in this reception.

Lee Ling

More Pictures of SCCC

2008-06-16T21:44:00.004+01:00

Sample of stage view

Sample layout of the ballroom

Sample of guests' tables setting

Sample of registration table setting

What Do You Think?

2008-06-12T12:17:00.003+01:00

What do you think of this dress? I have a pair or ivory shoes that matches with this dress completely. Should I get it or should I just wear a cream coloured knee-length dress for the church ceremony?
HELLLLLPPPP!!!!!

UK Wedding Reception Menu

2008-06-12T11:46:00.003+01:00

Have you ever wonder if you will be given a choice to choose what to eat on a reception that you have paid for? It might sound pretty ordinary to some people but it might not.

As Chinese's tradition, upon attending the couple's wedding, a guest will usually thank the invitation by giving a Red Envelope containing money "hong bao". Technically, you are invited, but you are not getting free food, you had initially paid for the food you are about to get but the choice of food is not yours entirely? Well, no freedom. Sad I know. We usually opt to give "hong bao" because it is much easier than cracking your brains to think what to get as wedding gifts rather than the married couple would prefer you might have in a way contribute to their reception. :) True, I would pretty much prefer that. Duh!

Anyways, this time, we are opting for two different styles. In Malaysia, we will have two separate receptions where in both receptions we have a proper Chinese 8 Course Meal. In the UK, however, we are doing a Western 3 Course Meal complete with coffee or tea. If budget permits, we might have a cake. But I doubt that will happen. Because, I think it is best keep it simple.

Menu:

Starter

Home made Soup of the day
Gilby's classic Prawn cocktail with melba toast
Smoked Salmon on Waldorf salad with tomato Concass and pesto
Pan fried Calves Liver & Bacon with Duchess potatoes and a white wine, lemon & sage butter sauce
Spinach and goats cheese Frittata topped with rocket leaves & parmesan
Seared escalopes of Salmon on a creamy asparagus risotto

Main Courses

Carmarthen Rump Steak on sautéed potatoes with sauce Diane and crispy parsnips
Gilby's Fish and hand cut chips with garden peas and salad
Breast of Chicken coated with a spicy ‘Bang Bang' dressing on Cos lettuce with a choice of potatoes
Toasted Bloomer topped with Cox's apples & wild mushrooms drizzled with a lemon & chive crème fraiche and served with new potatoes
Medallions of Monk fish and homemade Gnocchi with a butterbean and red pepper sauce and garnished with deep fried Basil
Flaked Salmon & Queenie Scallops on a Pasta Nero & Watercress Salad with cherry tomatoes
and coriander pesto

Desserts

Home baked fresh fruit pavlova
Vanilla and rum panacotta with fresh raspberries
Selection of cheese with biscuits
Classic baked bread and butter pudding with crème anglaise
Sticky toffee pudding with chocolate ice cream
Ice cream selection served with a crisp brandy basket

Coffee or Tea

Well, choose one from each section and choose to have coffee or tea. For kids, you will be accompanied by soft drinks (or if some adults want them it is fine) and red and white wine will be available for the adults. Your call.

I am looking forward to that reception anxiously. Of course, not forgetting the church wedding which is driving me crazy! :)

Half The Price, Half The Quality

2008-06-12T11:25:00.002+01:00

What will you do if you have two choices?
Both will have to do the same amount of work, same amount of time, same things to be done.

Company X: Priced at RM7000.00
1 Chief Photographer and 1 Assistant Photographer
30 pages 12"X12" laminated album
20 pages 8" X 12" coffee table album
Photo Slide Show DVD
Returned original pictures edited

1 Chief Videographer:
3-5 minutes - highlights of events' coverage
3-5 minutes - MV of outdoor videography session
60-90 minutes - video duration
Journalistic and Cinematic video editing
Returned original recordings

Company Y: RM3800
1 Photographer (standard of professionalism unstated)
1 photo album (size unknown)
200 pieces of 4R photos (unsure if it will be in a proper album or not)
Returned all original photos in Hi-Resolution Format (professionally processed or not unsure)

1 Videographer (standard of professionalism unstated)
1 MTV of 5 minutes (I assume it features the highlights of the events but unconfirmed)
Methods of video editing not stated
Duration of edited video not stated
Returned original recordings

I will not reveal the company's profile as I do not want to defame anyone. Better safe than sorry. Which would you choose? Paying RM7000.00 or paying RM3800.00
You tell us to pick a choice. After confirming the details, I will post it up online again. :)

Updates on UK's Wedding

2008-06-10T05:23:00.003+01:00

Church : St. John's Church of Cardiff
Priest : Vicar Keith
Reception : Gilby's Restaurant (Midst of confirming reservation and prices)
Make Up Artist : MAC's make-up artist or The Bride, herself
Hair : The Groom
Guestlists : Still determining. Trying to make it at 50 people at most
Photographer : Sky
Videographer : Still considering to pay GBP150.00 to the church to get it done or not even though videographers are on Sky's responsibilities.
Invitation Card : DIY
Hand Bouquet : DIY
Corsages : DIY
Wedding Car Decorations : DIY

I guess there's some updates about the UK Weddings. Till then, I will keep posting. Tomorrow, I will sort the guests' list out with my brother and make it happen! It will be pretty cool to have him here again. Will sort out the guests' list with hubby, his god-brother and my god-brother as well.

Then, calling Gilby's again tomorrow and sorting it out with them to arrange to see the place and probably a free food trial on my birthday which is upcoming in three weeks' time. What do you think? I might just zoom down the the Vale of Glamorgan to check the environment out myself. Hubby's busy with his works and he has still lots to do. Interview is coming up and he is pretty nervous! But, I bet he will just do well. :)

Hubby, you know I love you a lot and I will support you all the way.

Publication Of Banns

2008-06-10T05:15:00.002+01:00

On the 15th, 22nd and 29th of June 2008, three weeks consecutively, our announcements of banns will be made in the St. John's Church of Cardiff during their morning service which starts from 9.30 a.m. Great news! We both will be dropping in on the 22nd of June to hear it for ourselves. Hopefully, I'll get to video record it SECRETLY *hush hush* and we will post it online later.

So cool! Cannot wait for this Sunday to come. Long story short, we will be going through a church wedding in accordance with the church rules as well as the marriage law of the land. Excited with the ceremonial part but not to forget to sign the papers properly on that day! I will then send in my application to renew my visa upon returning from home in September. So excited! LOL!

Publications of banns basically means announcing our names and our intentions to get marry and to see if anyone would disagree to it. Just like in civil ceremonies, where you post your name and pictures up to see everyone in the world agrees to it. Rather, this is done in the church in accordance to your residential address. Something new and I am willing to learn all about it.
:)

Lee Ling

Important Dates on Our Diaries

2008-06-09T20:48:00.005+01:00

8th of July 2008 (080708)
Church Wedding and Registration of Marriage in UK

22nd of August 2008 (220808)
Registration of Marriage in Malaysia

13th of September 2008 (130908)
Bride's Reception @ SCCC, Seberang Jaya, Penang

14th of September 2008 (140908)
Chinese Cultural Wedding Ceremony
Groom's Reception @ Cha, Traders Hotel, Penang

Participations' List

2008-06-08T20:43:00.004+01:00

UK's Wedding

Registration of Marriage : St. John's Church of Cardiff
Reception Venue : TBC (1. Gilbys', 2. Gilbys'@Bay 3. Strada)
Maid of Honour : Michelle Ong
Best Man : TBC
Flower Girls : TBC
Paige Boy : TBC
Photographer : Sky
Videographers : Sky's crew
Pianist : TBC (1. Claire 2. Jenny)

Malaysia's Wedding

Main Bridesmaid : Gina Goh
Bridesmaids : Abelyn Lim, Saw Bee Bee, Lee Jo May, Boey Kuan Kee, Goh Pei-Lynn, Eunice Ooi

Best Man : TBC
Groom's Ushers : TBC

Photographer and Videographer : Perfect Moments
Slide-shows Presentation : Bride and Groom and Bride's Little Brother, Richard
Bridal Studio and Pre-Wedding Photography : Crystal Brides
Bride's Wedding Dresses and Evening Gowns : Crystal Brides and her own collections
Groom's Suits : Crystal Brides and his own collections
Event Coordinator : TBC
Venue Decorator : The bridesmaids, groom's ushers and friends of the both

Receptions :
Bride's Reception :
Venue : Bride's : Sunway Carnival Convention Centre, Perai
Musicians : Mosaic (Featuring Dennis Lau)
MC : TBC

Groom's Reception :
Venue : Groom's : Cha, Traders Hotel, Penang
Musicians : The Starz Band
MC : The Starz Band

One Month Before Registration of Marriage

2008-06-08T20:39:00.002+01:00

Yeap. It is exactly one month before our registration of marriage in the UK. Yeap, same date next month, 8th of July 2008 (08-07-08) we will be legally husband and wife. Haha! Pretty excited. By tonight, we will find out if we will do it as a church wedding or just an ordinary civil ceremony. We'll see what happens next. But will keep you posted on the registration of marriage.

As for the Chinese culture ceremony and the receptions in Malaysia, it is pretty much sorted. I will post a list of Vendors List later in another post. But for now, our focus is on the registration. I bet it would be VERY NICE to have a church wedding. I am sucker for church wedding.

Lee Ling

Life of a Household Income of GBP18000 Per Annum

2008-05-04T01:03:00.002+01:00

GBP18000 a year is divided by 12, GBP1500 per month.
Wow! Seems a lot. But look further!!

Income Tax: GBP210
NI: GBP 100
Council Tax: GBP 100
Utility Bills: GBP50
Petrol: GBP 150
Mortgage: GBP300

I have GBP590 left for the month. How do I survive?

Groceries: GBP 200

With GBP 390 left. What about my life? My entertainment? My dining treat? My spa? My haircut? My gym subscription?

That needs about GBP 200 I assume. Means, I left GBP190 a month left. To make it further, I say GBP200.

In a year, I only save GBP 2400. No wonder, ISA (High interest account) offers me more than 4% interest rate for tax free GBP 3600. This is because I can never save more than that in a year. Smart!

By the time I spent 10 years in the workforce, probably my pay increases. My tax increases again but I probably get to save GBP50 more a month.
Assuming I get a pay rise every two years. Savings increases GBP50 a month every two years, when will I be rich?
Answer is NEVER.

See the calculation:
First two years - GBP 4800
Then two years - GBP 6000
Then two years - GBP 7200
Then two years - GBP8400
Final two years - GBP 9600
Total: GBP 36000

This is the total if I don't spend any single pence from my savings. I cannot even afford a house in cash. The best I can get is a SPORTS CAR with DECREASING MARKET VALUE.

I need to make it super huge to become a millionaire. To cut it short, I can never become a millionaire. Forget the dreams of becoming the next Sir Alan Sugar. It is just not happening if you are average in life.

Crazy Tax Rate

2008-05-04T00:27:00.002+01:00

Hubby worked approximately 171 hours last week minus the half day leave which took 5 hours off the shelf. Each hour is GBP6, so totaling earnings of GBP 1026.

Question 1: How much did he bring home?

Answer 1: GBP 840++

Question 2: What the f*C* happened to the GBP 180++?

Answer 2: He paid GBP120++ (approximately 20% after deducting the allowance given per year)
He paid another GBP60++ (approximately 6% of total earnings) to his National Insurance (NI)

Question 3: What did the government do with his money?

Answer 3: God knows. Pay for the f*c*ed up healthcare who asked you to make an appointment one day in advance even you are hell sick and desperately in need of a doctor.
Then, they pay the unemployed who voluntarily or involuntarily made themselves unemployed. Then, they pay the old people who had worked their entire life only when they are 65. Your pension from your NI only given to you when you are 65. So, imagine, you gotta pay approximately 40 years before you get it back. At 50, you are so frail and perhaps barely could work as hard as when you were 30, but then again, less contribution to NI means, you get less pension. What can be more stupid? I think it is about time, the government review a little on their taxation law and the age of pension. Even in developing countries, pension age has been reduced to 55 I think. Does it mean that British are capable to live longer and work longer? LOL! We'll see. Obese, smokers, binge drinkers, these adds to quite a lot of HEALTHY LIVING I suppose.
Then, they say they provide you free education in grammar schools, but how many of us actually went to government supported schools? People said that private schools produce more intelligent, high-flyer kids comparing to government schools. So, why our money taken to provide second class education for our kids?
Then, you said you give us the best universities in the world for our kids. Well, true to a certain extent, but still fees is forever increasing as ever. Anyone bother doing anything?
Then, petrol price is as high as ever.

Those aren't the only taxes we pay. Then, we pay approximately GBP1000++ per year to support our local council. Well, to pay our schools, to pay our police force, to pay the bin men and the list go on. And everything we paid, standards are still way before satisfaction. So, if the standards aren't as I expect it to be, am I entitled to a discount? Answer: IN YOUR DREAMS!

Oh, even, you savings, it is only tax free for the first GBP3600. Wow! That, you call encouraging savings in the bank? I might as well secretly hide my cash underground, not earning interest, but the least I can do is to ensure that no tax is paid.

And then, my filthy rich uncle next door decides to let me inherit his diamond mine and the big mansion, here comes inheritance tax. WOW! If I sell the properties, I get taxed, because I earned from the wealth I inherited. What more can you tax??

Mortgage is increasing, groceries price is increasing, inflation is high but then, we still yet have minimum wages that can support our daily lives.

Then, our car tax. Increasing yearly, then you said we contribute to contributions, then our CO2 emissions, you tax us. And our groceries, our daily shopping, you put a Value Added Tax (VAT) on top of even the peanut I bought from Tesco yesterday. 17.5% on top on every single thing. God, bless us.

In conclusion, I don't see anything that we don't pay tax altogether. From the pork chop I bought from Tesco to the water I drink, to the land I put my feet on, up to my clothes and even my dog has a VAT on top of it. And yet, the government tells us, they have yet ENOUGH money to spend. So how much resources would you need to apparently SATISFY your BUDGET? God bless the people in Britain to have goose that lay golden eggs. Maybe, they might tax you for that? Ultimately, live on the doe, that's the best. Minimum given to ensure you live a good life not violating the Human Rights Act 1998 (HRA 1998) with the support from the government. I think this would be the BEST ALTERNATIVE I see so far. GBP80 pounds a week, I don't pay any taxes at all because I don't earn at all. I don't save so I don't pay any income tax from savings, my family remains poor so I don't worry my kids paying inheritance tax. All in all, all our money goes to the government, but rarely we use it. Healthcare? Tell me about the waiting list on the line for hips replacement or whatever replacement. When will I get my hips replace, if I break mine now?

I am tired. Tired of this freaking tax. It is about time to think of a further plan. Immigration! Most people like this country for the money you get as pounds sterling is strong. But in the end, if you live here like ordinary people paying all the necessary tax, you cannot even afford anything. No wonder R8 for me remains a dream.

Mon Cheri's Dresses

2008-05-02T22:59:00.000+01:00

I love this a lot...

Simply love this....

Pinky....

For the first dance.... And enjoy some freedom!

A few evening dresses of Tony Bowls that I found over the website.
www.mon-cheri.co.uk
There are a few collections, Gala, Paris, Tony Bowls' Evening and the list go on.

Anyways, I have yet try them on. Wait, let me see, I'll do it after the exams. I can't wait for it to be over!! Then I will get all the time in the world to try all the dresses. *SMILING IN VAIN!!*

Crushie

2008-05-01T15:59:00.000+01:00

I was randomly searching on Google typing the word "Penang Quartet" when I landed on my good friend's YouTube videos. Well, absolutely fantastic like Simon said on Britain's Got Talent to Paul Potts when he first sang for the first audition. Same impression I had on my good friend.

But few weeks down the line, we became very good friends and we share lots of funny and stupid stories together. Things about boys, girls, bimbos and the list goes on. And now, he is my musicians for the wedding. TADAH!

This is part of the message he sent me before leaving for Singapore for his show. LOL! We share lots of things together. Though we knew each other for only some time, it feels like really long. Anyways, here goes:

XXXX said:

crushie/ babeh,
u know ,,,being a while since we last chat..now is 8.23am wed morning
and i am leaving to singapore again
for a day show only....
sorry for not being able to chat these days but i promise would be back by your side again next week..just wanna let ya know i miss ya !=)

let me know if u need anything
just sms me kk...
would be back on thurs night.

cheers,
XXXXX Crushie

P/S: Crushie don't kill me if you see this. It is just so funny! LMAO!!!

Music Element

2008-05-01T15:34:00.000+01:00

Just found some time to take my mind off exams and added a music column by the side. The polka-dotted iPod. LOL!

As you are probably listening to it right now, Hans Zimmer's Tennessee in the OST of Pearl Harbour. Absolutely love this song. It brings a lot of meanings. Especially when Josh character's name is Danny.

**SMILESSS AWAY**

My Engagement Ring

2008-04-28T10:54:00.000+01:00

Well, if you are looking for me to tell the engagement story, it would be a bit disappointing as I am not going to do that today. Just looking at it this way, if I tell you, everyone will be yawning away when the groom and the bride were speaking during the wedding. I assume it to be this way! :)
Some pictures of my engagement ring.

TADA!!!!The engagement ring together with the wedding band. Two of them sits perfectly side by side!

Top view
Side View

Well, just a basic description of the ring
Metal: Platinum
Colour: F (fair white) which is two away from the best D (exceptional white)
Clarity: VVS1 (very, very minute inclusions) just right next to IF (flawless)
Carat: 0.50

You guess the price then?!

Dinner Venues' Photos

2008-04-28T01:20:00.001+01:00

Here are some photos of where the dinners will be held.
Here comes the bride, all dress in white, with the big back side. LOL!

Hope you enjoyed the pictures then. The panaromic view from the stage is a blur I think! Resizing it seems failed! :P

Above is a photo of the SCCC. A bit blur. Resizing failed! Entrance below of the flower arch below

The two belows are CHA, Traders Hotel. It used to be a restaurant and now that the restaurant has closed down, it has turned into a function room that is used specifically for weddings. The ceiling is too low for a stage and that's why we decide not to have any musicians. Unless we want a quartet in there. The rest, can't fit! The ceiling height is only like 2.6m

Groom's Suit Choices

2008-04-28T01:12:00.000+01:00

I wanted an Armani or Boss suit to be honest. But spending GBP400 on a suit, I find it too pricey but I know it is worth it for the life of it. But anyhow, I will head to town's Flannel to check out on some suits to see. Ling found some of the pictures and designs I like on the net. Below.

My favourite suit. I like the style and the colour. Need to get this MTM I guess.

So, whatever colour dress Ling wears that night, I am wearing the tie colour that matches her dress colour perfectly.

Something for the day. Black or dark blue or gray would be nice.

Evening Dresses Choices

2008-04-28T01:07:00.001+01:00

These are a few evening dresses samples. Simple ones. Have yet found some complex ones to be quoted for price for MTM yet. LOL!

Two bared-backs that I like. Ignore the colour if you hate it. But like the back design I guess. :)

Love this dress to bit. Wonder if it fits me that well?

My convenience for the first dance. I would just pay a little bit more for a fourth dress dedicated to the dance. After all, there is always a second time I wear this dress in the future. :)

Wedding Dress Choices

2008-04-28T01:01:00.000+01:00

I like the top part of this dress. It actually looks amazing down the gown. I cannot find it again now! Damn! This was quoted approximately RM1700 to RM1900.

Heart Shape (As recommended by the tailor that would suit me. God knows!)

Empire Cut (As recommended by the tailor that would suit me. God knows!)

Confirmation of Details

2008-04-28T00:45:00.000+01:00

Yet another day has passed. Weekend is over and time for reality check.
Here are the few details that we had confirmed for the past week since I last updated the blog.

Bride's Dinner:
13th September 2008 @ Sunway Carnival Convention Centre, Seberang Jaya, Penang
Musicians: Mosaic and Dennis Lau
MC and Sound System: TBC (Some idiot events company in Penang has yet confirmed the details with me)
Decoration: Keatky, Gina, Eng Soon, Lee Ling and the rest of the bridesmaids.
Theme: Mooncake Festival

Groom's Dinner
14th September 2008 @ Traders Hotel, Penang
Theme: Mooncake Festival
Just a basic dinner with soft music background as per requested by the groom's dad.

Well, per previous posts, it was pretty sorted that my mom decide to rent a new wedding dress and two new evening dresses for me to wear on the actual day. But then, each dress are charged separately on top of the basic package (RM2300) totaling RM6000. The dresses charges itself cost about RM2300. Madness I know. I have yet canceled the plan to hire the dresses from them but I am doing some research whether to get them made to measure (MTM) myself. I am in the middle of negotiating with a wedding dress tailor in Penang. I was quoted RM1700-1900 for a complex dress that I came across through the internet. If the less complicated dress I opt for, the cheaper it would be.
Still contemplating whether to MTM or hire it. HELP!!!!
Groom wants two separate pairs of suits which if tailor-made will cost more. If I were to stick to the original package of RM6000, the groom's suit and shirts are included. Sigh! Don't know what to do now.

Anyways, that was just a quick update about my dresses, the suits and the venues. The big stuffs are sorted. Now, photography (PG) and videography (VG) is costing me a bomb to hire the professionals. Indeed, I don't know if we are still engaging the professional. Whether just to stick with friends taking a video and then get a professional photographers. Seems like everyone seems to think RM7000 for the VG and PG package is a bit extreme. Sigh! Another problem cropped up.

At the moment, the only things confirmed are:
1. Themes
2. Venues
3. Decorating Team
4. Caterers for the Bride's Home

The main issue of wedding dresses and suits, VG and PG is still in the middle of TROUBLES. That is the most I can say I guess. Everyone seems to think RM7000 is madness. What do you think?

Night is late now. Heading to bed. Probably I should seek more advices from some professional before making any decisions.
Damn! GBP 1000++ for VG and PG. How?

Mom screamed. Groom don't mind. I am confused. HELP!!

Bridal Dress and Pre-Wedding Photography Package

2008-04-21T13:03:00.000+01:00

The invoice that I was issued when my mom did on my behalf. First inquiry is free, if you confirm and sign up, you pay RM1800.00. Damn, not even a thing done, you have taken my money. Trying out the dresses on 19th of August and pre-wedding photography on the 20th of August. Isn't it a bit rush? I guess not? Probably I'll just end up going home earlier!!

Approximately, RM6000 for the whole package? What do you think?

Confirmed Date

2008-04-21T12:44:00.000+01:00

Date has been confirmed. It is the 14th September 2008 which is the Mooncake Festival (15th of 8th Lunar Month). Randomly, my mom told me that is the auspicious date. So well.

I know it has been dragging for a long time. But I was just too lazy to update the blog but thought that since I am doing some invitations on FB, might as well update some juicy details here regarding the wedding.

Bride's Wedding Reception: Sunway Carnival Convention Centre, Penang

Groom's Wedding Reception: E&O or G Hotel, Penang (TBC)

Bridal Shop: Crystal Brides Sdn. Bhd.

Photography: JAC Photography (TBC)

Videography: My Wedding Story (TBC)

Entertainment: Mosaic (TBC)

Florists: TBC

Wedding Theme: Mooncake Festival

Guestlists: TBC

Wedding Cake: TBC with WC Law

Guess, that's about it then?

Launch of Our New Blog

2008-04-15T16:21:00.000+01:00

Ola!

It is the launch of our new online blog. We got engaged since December and there are so much on the line to do. We have been talking about creating a blog, uploading pictures but it never did work out as we were both busy with works, studies and so on.

Anyways, I finally did it by signing up today. Oh yeah! Gotta start featuring some of friends' blogs as well. This blog is more or less updated by both of us (doing it together) or probably separately sometimes as we both have our own complaints to do in life.

But to start, probably I should start with wedding plans, how we met, and so on. But ain't having lots of time at the moment. But I'll still try to upload as much details as possible!