Wonderful wedding cakes

Whoa, I didn't notice it's been quite a while since my last post. My apologies for not being able to post as much as I want to. It's been some pretty busy months.

But enough with the excuse.

Browsing through my tags, I realized I don't have an entry about wedding cakes. One of the most important and traditional elements of a wedding and I haven't talked about it yet?! Well, better late than never.

They say that the wedding cake traditionally symbolizes the couple's fertility and luck in marriage. It's also the symbol of their love and sweetness towards each other. The tradition of having a wedding cake predates to the ancient times: the Romans created cakes to be broken over the bride and groom's heads. Whoa! The crumbs that fall -- for the guests to pick up -- symbolizes good luck.

Also, do you notice that most wedding cakes come in layers? That's because during the olden times, the height of the cake is symbolic of their social status. The higher the cake, the more popular the bride and groom. Interesting bit there, huh?

The tradition of cutting the cake symbolizes the union of the bride and groom. This is considered the first act of the man and woman as husband and wife.

I've heard of a tradition wherein the topmost layer of the cake must be preserved for the couple to eat on their first anniversary. Not sure what that meant, but we never did that.

Traditionally, wedding cakes come in white, also symbolizing the purity of the bride. But nowadays, more and more couples are opting for multi-colored cakes, especially if they want their cakes to match their theme or motif.

They also include toppers for additional pizzazz to the cake. It can be figures, silhouettes, little buntings, or monograms.

Others have elements like crystals, edible beads, or even flowers, may they be real or fake.

Also, some weddings feature not exactly cakes, but cupcakes. This makes it easier to distribute the "cake" to the guests. Some couples who opt for wedding cupcakes but still want the traditional cake cutting ceremony include a small cake for cutting.

There may be lots of meanings and traditions behind the wedding cake, but one thing is for sure: the wedding cake is one of the main attractions of the festivity. That's why a lot of brides and grooms make sure that they're not just delicious to eat, they're also wonderful to look at.

Photo credits: Nevie-Pie Cakes, Vienna Cakes, My Sweet and Saucy, Kikuike (via Etsy), Perfect-Wedding-Day, and The Cake Parlour.

Celebrity wedding: Kate Moss and Jamie Hince

I just can't stop ogling at the wedding photos of Kate Moss and The Kills guitarist Jamie Hince released at Vogue.com.

Kate Moss and Jamie Hince as photographed for the Vogue feature

Their wedding was a mix of vintage glam and country chic. Utilizing lots of whites, the overall vibe was simple yet utterly elegant. Check out the details:

Kate and daughter Lila Grace

Groom in Yves Saint Laurent, bride in John Galliano.

The reception

Tablescape details

The wedding cake

Looks like a fashion ad, don't you think?

Their wedding is a great inspiration for those wanting to do a rustic vintage wedding. Hope this got your minds stimulated.

Images from Vogue.com and MarieClaire.co.uk

Afterthoughts on the Wedding of the Century: Prince William and Kate

Vintage Bentleys and Chryslers, throngs of Britons lined up on the streets, horses and carriages and crazy hats galore, and the big reveal on Kate Middleton's wedding dress -- that probably made up your weekend as you've watched the Royal Wedding unfold before your very eyes last Friday.

After seeing in CNN's live streaming and all the other reruns in the other news channels days after, I realized I kinda liked this wedding.

Prince William in a red Irish Guard uniform and Kate in a lace-and-satin dress from Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

While the wedding had a really big budget, I liked how the couple chose to go for something simple. Nothing ostentatious about their looks and even the bouquet looked simple in white and green. Of course, 1,000++ guests means that this is a really big wedding, so...

I think the one thing that I best liked here is Kate Middleton's dress. Compared to what Princess Diana wore during her wedding, this dress from Sarah Burton was a breath of fresh air. Lace appliques, A-line skirt -- it does say something about Kate's style: simple yet elegant.

William looked dapper in his Irish Guard uniform, but somehow Harry looked more handsome to me. Hehe.

Well, now that the wedding's over, there's only one thing to say to this couple: Congratulations, best wishes, and hopefully your marriage will last.

McWeddings: Something different (and easy on the budget, too)

Couples would usually go all out on their weddings. I remember during our wedding preps, I was very particular about the venue, the attire, and the food. Especially the food. For the buffet meal alone, we spent around US$1500. That's not including the charge for the venue, dresses, photography, and everything else.

Some people would pull out all the stops and splurge more or less US$22,000 for everything. But there are still some brides- and grooms-to-be who choose to be a bit more on the frugal side, cutting down costs here and there.

Fortunately, for couples-to-wed in Hong Kong, McDonald's is out to help them have a unique and memorable wedding without overspending. McWeddings is the food chain's newest venture which is sure to attract future brides and grooms who are on a fairly tight budget.

A milkshake toast for the bride and groom!

For just around US$1,280, they can avail of the wedding package which is inclusive of McDonald's treats that are transformed into wedding wonders: food and drinks for 50 people, and a cake made of stacked Apple Pies. Invitations, decor, and gifts for guests are also included in the package. The crew takes the extra mile to make this occasion special for the couple as they come in dressed in black suits, just as ushers and waiters in a hotel would.

Yes, McDonald's is not just a venue for kiddie parties anymore. With McWeddings, they've broadened the reach of the clientele -- and eventually helping out couples on a budget create a fun, magical and special wedding day.

Photo credit: The New York Times website

Walking down the aisle: a few tips for brides

I guess one of the most exciting yet nerve-wracking part for the bride is the actual day itself, when she has to walk down the aisle to meet the groom. When I was a bride-to-be some years ago, my fear was actually tripping on the carpet halfway to the altar. And the church had a pretty long aisle -- it seemed like miles for me. Good thing that didn't happen, or else that would be so embarrassing.

It was also a good thing that I got a few tips from other brides and brides-to-be about how to stay poised and pretty while walking towards the altar. Here are some of the advices they gave me:

1. Make sure the dress is just the right length for you. This was one of the things that stuck to me early in the wedding preps. I've heard stories of ladies having a hard time walking because they stepped on their skirt, or they had to hold their bouquet and dress with one hand to prevent them from tripping. So in order to avoid mishaps while walking, better have your dress altered to your height.

2. Do the "kick-step." This was one trick I learned from another bride who was advised by her wedding coordinator on how to walk in her wedding gown. When you're about to make a step, instead of just moving your foot forward, try to kick the front of your skirt so that you won't step on it. But don't do a high kick. Just kick lightly so that your movements still look fluid.

3. Put the bouquet to your belly level. I've seen some brides holding their wedding bouquet too high that it covers their chest. If the gown had pretty details on the bodice, it would be a shame not to show it, right? Holding it just at the level of your stomach also makes you look more relaxed in pictures.

4. Walk slowly. I remember my photographer telling me, during the first few steps along the aisle, that I was walking too fast. He told me to slow down and move to the beat (my wedding march song was the canon from Pachelbel). The wedding is your big day and you must savor every minute of it. Besides, it looks a bit awkward when the bride seems to be in a bit of a hurry, don't you think?

5. Smile. Great for the photos and videos. Well I guess if you're a bit on the emotional side, that would be a bit hard (I've seen brides cry during their bridal marches). But you know, this is the most wonderful day, that single moment where everything just feels like heaven. So show those pearly whites. Smile as you pass by your guests, your friends, and your family. And of course, when you meet your groom. This also goes to the groom, the parents, and the members of the bridal party. The happiness that comes from your smile will surely radiate all around the place.

So brides, remember these tips and you'll really shine during your wedding.

Photo from blog owner's wedding.

The Royal Wedding Invitation for Will and Kate's much-awaited union

A simple white invitation card with a gold emblem on top. Straightforward text printed in black. That's how the wedding invitation of Prince William and Kate Middleton looks like. From the looks of it, you can say that the Wedding of the Year would probably have a simple but meaningful ceremony. I'd like that for them. Two high-profile personalities don't need to have all the hoopla, don't you think?

Around 1,800 to 1,900 invites (UsMagazine and AllVoices released different numbers) have been sent out for the biggest event in Britain that will happen this April. Of course, royalty from neighboring countries will be invited. Don't know who the other guests will be. But it's definitely not me. Hahaha!

We're starting to see more details on the upcoming Royal Wedding. I'll sure be posting those updates here soon.

Photo credit: AllVoices.com

High-profile wedding: Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky

I guess this is one of America's most awaited weddings. And why not? Chelsea Clinton, daughter of former US President Bill Clinton and current Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, recently wed her longtime boyfriend Marc Mezvinsky in Rhinebeck, New York.

Chelsea walked down the aisle wearing a Vera Wang strapless gown with a silver beaded belt and full skirt with a wavy pattern. Cute!

The ceremony, held in Astor Courts, was presided by a rabbi and a priest, as the groom was Jewish and the bride was a Methodist.

The wedding was attended by family and close friends. It seemed like both the bride and groom wanted a very intimate wedding.

Congratulations to the newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Marc Mezvinsky!

News and photo courtesy of Today at MSNBC.

Celebrity wedding: Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green

Shia LaBeouf's [former] leading lady in the Transformers movie franchise and the ex-90210 cast member tied the knot last June 24 in a very intimate beach wedding ceremony in Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Hawaii officiated by a local Hawaiian priest. The wedding's only witness was Brian's son, Kassius, from a previous relationship.

Megan wore a silk georgette strapless corset gown with a 16-foot train created by Armani Prive.

No frills, no embellishments. Simple, classic, yet perfect for a beach wedding. The veil looked a bit hard to manage, though, what with the wind blowing it everywhere. Nevertheless, the bride looked so pretty on that day.

Brian and his son came in matching Armani white shirt and pants.

Must admit, I'm not a big fan of both actors, but hey, I like the fact that they chose to hold an intimate union compared to other celebrities who'd go for more flashy weddings. A simple wedding like this feels more solemn and it captures the essence of what marriage is and should be.

Cheers to Mr. and Mrs. Brian Austin Green. I do hope their union will last.

Photos and information taken from DailyMail.co.uk.

Wedding video: Coy Placido and Tuesday Vargas

One of the funniest and most touching wedding videos I've seen so far is from Filipino comedienne Tuesday Vargas (now Marizel Sarangelo-Placido in real life). Her beach wedding to guitarist Coy Placido (of Session Road) in Discovery Shores Boracay looked magnificent and fun. Love her serpentina gown. And her vows, too. :)

Mayad Studios does an absolutely great job, capturing the fun and love that surrounded their union. Here's the video for your enjoyment:


Jerico and Marizel (Tuesday Vargas) from Mayad Studios on Vimeo.

Here's an English translation (well, roughly) of parts of the bride's wedding vows:

"In my life, I've had a lot of dreams: to be a great doctor, to be a beauty queen, and to get married in a beautiful place to a hunk of a guy. I can say that today, one of my dreams has come true: that of becoming a beauty queen."

"Coy, I would like to thank you for the countless times you have saved my life from the abyss. Thank you for the love you have shown me and Kaya, a love that does not expect something in return. Whatever happens, even if we adopt too many cats, become has-beens which won't happen because we're not even famous yet, be laughed at by kids when we're 70 because we're all wrinkled and still have a lot of tattoos, we'll face everything together and with hands holding each other's."

"Today, with all my heart, I give you my life. I will make sure you'll have every reason to be happy. My heart overflows with joy to be wed to my only love."

A royal wedding: Princess Victoria of Sweden and Daniel Westling

The weekend saw a wedding that's as glitzy and glamorous as a Hollywood union. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden tied the knot with her former fitness trainer, Daniel Westling, after 8 years of being together.

Their love story is one that's like straight out of a romantic novel that ends in a happy ever after with a marriage blessed by both sets of parents. Incidentally, the Princess Victoria's parents, King Carl Gustaf XVI and Queen Silvia, were wed on the same day 34 years ago.

The Crown Princess looked radiant and beautiful in her duchess satin wedding gown with a 5-meter train attached to the waist. She wears a tiara, the same one the Queen wore on her own wedding, with her veil.

The princess was escorted by the King as she walked down the aisle to meet her groom.

They're just so regal and beautiful...

Of course, the groom was in a dashing tuxedo. I think his glasses added a bit of charm to his overall look.

The next photo shows him alongside the Princess' brother, Prince Carl Philip, on the tiffany blue carpet.

Queen Silvia and Princess Madeleine complete Sweden's royal family. They look absolutely gorgeous in their respective gowns.

Daniel's parents were also in attendance for their son's very special day.

The wedding was well-attended by over 1,000 guests, including royalties and aristocrats from different countries. And because it was a royal wedding, everyone was indeed dressed to the nines. You can see the royal couple's wedding guests here.

Princess Victoria and now Prince Daniel, Duke of Vastergotland, look so happy and in love. Let's all wish them to have a happy and successful marriage.

Photo credits: OhNoTheyDidnt-Livejournal. News from Wedding-News.co.uk and HelloMagazine.com.

Intimate weddings

A colleague's sister is getting married this April. The catch? She and her fiance announced it just after New Year's. That means they have less than 4 months to prepare for the big day.

There are two other catches: first, they only have a budget of Php50,000 (around US$1,000), and second, they don't know where to start.

Weddings can cost so much today, and working on such a tight budget can be difficult. But it actually is possible to work around that budget if they go for an intimate wedding.

True, here in the Philippines having an intimate wedding is nearly impossible, with every second and third-degree relative, and even nosy neighbors, wanting to be witnesses to your union (or maybe just have a free meal). But you can, as long as the couple's decision is firm about limiting the guests to immediate family members only.

Some may get offended for not being invited, said my friend. And in our country, this may get tongues wagging. But do you have to care about it, really? It is your wedding, and the most important people there are the two of you and your families. So don't be hesitant in holding an intimate wedding, especially if you have a limited budget. It's the meaning of the union, and not the spectacle, that counts.

Photo credit: Stock Photo: Wedding Day 4 by bjearwicke from sxc.hu.

The Philippines' Wedding of the Year: Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez

It was the biggest news yesterday here in Manila: Senator Mar Roxas tying the knot with broadcaster Korina Sanchez.

Touted as the wedding of the year, primarily because of these two big personalities in politics and media, respectively, their wedding had a Filipiniana theme with white and ecru as the color motif. The ceremony, held in the colossal Sto. Domingo Church, was said in Tagalog.

I would say Korina Sanchez looked radiant in her Pepito Albert Filipiniana-inspired wedding gown made of pina fabric. It had a serpentina silhouette and off-shoulder neckline. The gown's main highlight, in my opinion, was the five-meter long cathedral train.

Some guests may describe the event as "simple" because they did away with the planned reception at Araneta Coliseum (they donated the amount set for the reception -- a whopping Php 2.2 million or almost US$ 47,000 -- to foundations helping typhoon victims) and the utilization of white blooms for the bouquets and venue styling, but it was all in all laden with pure elegance -- and, well, a bit of showbiz and politics, what with the who's who in attendance.

I would have wished they had a more private wedding, but they're public figures and they owe their earned fame to the Filipinos, so I guess having a very public (yes, the masang Pilipino were allowed to witness it in church) was just right.

Congratulations and best wishes to the new couple!

(Post-script: how I love the vintage top-down Mercedes Benz they rode to Bahay na Puti...)

Photo credit: Inquirer.net.