of being a fledgeling photog and venue hunting

To keep myself from quitting my day job, I have decided to really engage in other worthwhile activities that would advance my career in writing and/or photography. Thank the Lord for opportunities that keep me sane. Anyway, two weekends ago, Francis and I headed to Laiya, Batangas to shoot Trina Belamide's (the composer) resort, Tivona. Thanks, Chad, for pitching me!

Chad as the impromptu stylist

It was a great challenge for me to be doing portrait shots, as I'm confident to shoot only landscapes and travel shots. But it has been a good learning experience; and I realized that I need to equip myself with more camera gadgets (TTL flash and/or lights). Those will follow as soon as the wedding's over. Or better yet, as soon as I have extra-extra-extra cash to shell out. Or, someone sponsors me. Hah! I'll be posting some of the photos as soon as I get the permission to. Haha! In the meantime, the extra photos I took are already up on my flickr. And here are some non-serious photos.

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After a weekend at the beach, Francis and I went to Antipolo to check out possible reception venues.

The Mango Farm garden

The Mango Farm was the first destination. The place was nice, but the wedding package was a bit pricey, since the price is fixed regardless of whether a couple is availing of all the package inclusions or not. And the package doesn't include the bridal car yet!

Jardin's Paradiso. We love it!!!

So off we went to Jardin de Miramar.

I fell in love with the place the first time I saw it on their website. And the actual venue didn't fail my expectations. Add the fact that Francis and I were impressed by the package they offer. I initially wanted the Plaza area, which used to be open on both the left and right sides and was made charming with white drapes. But another venue, Sevilla, was constructed right beside it, lending Plaza only open on one side. This made us consider other venues within Jardin. Paradiso proved to be worth it, what with an open garden matched with a mini water falls and a charming gazebo. And when we asked Ms. Tet, the woman in charge of the place, what would happen if the reception gets rained on, we were happy to be informed that they reserve a backup venue (the Plaza or Ylang-Ylang; with roof, of course) just to be sure, with no additional costs. Mosquitoes are also nothing to worry about, as they fumigate the area three days before the event, and they place anti-mosquito plants on the day of the occasion. With such wonderful service, and throw in Hizon's as the caterer, we were tempted to book the venue on the spot. But we have to be careful and wise in choosing the perfect reception place, so we're still to check out other possible venues in the QC and Intramuros areas. But Jardin is the perfect spot, so far.

Prepping for the big day is getting more exciting! (More venue hunting photos here.)