My Cousin's Wedding: The Stress and the Highlights

It was my cousin's wedding yesterday, my parents were one of the principal sponsors and my younger sister was one of the bridesmaids and me was one of the visitors. I dress nicely so I won't be under-dress like the previous weddings of my relatives but I think I over dress because my dress blend with the bridesmaids.

Below are some of the disappointments, problems they face before and after the wedding.

Unforeseen Event

My cousin's wedding brought a lot of stress to them, days before the wedding the mother of the groom died so the groom family wasn't able to attend the wedding, then there was a typhoon so there was a lot of passengers that has been stranded, so some of their visitors and part of the entourage were not able to attend my cousin's wedding.

Gown Rental

The dresses of the bridesmaid were not done on time and the dress of the matron of honor was a disaster that she wasn't able to wear it on the wedding day. A few months before the wedding day, my cousin's family informed the couturier about the bridesmaid dresses, the color and etc., The bridesmaid even went to their house/shop for the measurement, everything went well but not as the wedding day is coming. A few weeks before the wedding the dresses weren't ready yet, it was told that they were still in Manila as they were sewn in the city, days before the wedding the dresses were still out of sight, the bridesmaid had to be measured again just in case the dresses needs to be repaired for their new measurement.  A day before the wedding the dresses arrives to their house and it is coming from out of town contrary to what is told that is coming from Manila, and since the dresses were not yet fully finished, minor details were not added yet my aunt and the bride has to wait for them until early mornight. Instead of relaxing for the wedding tomorrow they are stressed waiting for the bridesmaid dress to be done.

Catering

The reception was a disappointment too. There are still photos taking photos at the church but the groom and bride's cut-outs name has to be removed because it has to be used at the reception held at the bride's residence. The program proper didn't start until the bride and grooms place was not set-up (re: adding the cut-outs). Then the secondary sponsors were not given a presidential table they have to fall inline in a buffet so they could eat. And according to the family, the food that they choose with the caterer were not the food that was served and the vegetable menu was lacking, their utensils went missing after the wedding (dunno who took them it is either the visitors or the caterer) and even some of the food were gone quickly when there are only a few visitors. In the end, the caterer refunded an amount brought by unpleasing service.

Film and Video

Added to the fiasco was the video and camera persons hurrying to finish the wedding reception ceremony because they have another engagement in the afternoon but they took their time eating at the reception.

Over-all, it was a successful event despite the mishaps and blunders of people they trust on the dresses, reception and documentation of their wedding.

Update:

After a month, they are able to claim the photos and video taken on my cousins wedding day.  Disappointment of all disappointment the video was of low quality, a pirated DVD is far more clearer than their wedding video.  It looks like the  videographer  doesn't know his craft,  the video was either zoomed out or the people were cut,  the sound and movements were not sync too. They returned it to the studio but the quality was still the same darker and blurry but it sync now, the video was not just a remembrance of their wedding but also for the groom's family to see because they were not able to attend their wedding. Maybe they could just day "that's how its done in Odiongan!"

8 Traditional English Foods Fit For A Royal Wedding

With the royal wedding still fresh in everyone’s mind, it’s no wonder that many couples are using the regal ceremony as inspiration when planning their own special day. While sometimes overlooked, creating a stellar menu is one of the most important steps in ensuring that your wedding is a complete success. If you’re looking for something reminiscent of Will and Kate’s spectacular big day, here are 8 traditional English foods fit for a royal wedding.

Mini Pork Pies with Piccalilli

A fabulous finger food offering, these delicious miniature pork pies are best served golden and warm from the oven for your guests to snack on. Brushing the pastry with a sprinkle of sesame seeds not only looks great, but adds flavour as well. Have a small pot of Piccalilli or your favourite pickles on hand as an accompaniment for the pies, and allow guests to help themselves

Golden Scampi with Creamy Tartare Sauce

Another simple yet classic English favourite is Scampi. Crispy beer battered Scampi is easy for guests to eat, and taste amazing. Teamed with a tangy tartare sauce, this tasty seafood treat is bound to be a hit. Try a tempura batter for a lighter, less traditional twist on the original recipe.

Warming Pea and Ham Soup

Great for in between courses, this traditional soup is easy to make and tastes sensational. Serve while still steaming with a fresh crusty baguette or rustic sliced loaf and a side of butter for a warming winter dish your guests will love.

Beef Wellington

This is a true centrepiece of any special occasion. Mouth-wateringly tender beef fillet wrapped in mushroom duxelle and moist prosciutto, and finally encased in layers of flaky golden puff pastry, the Wellington is a dish everyone will remember. Made famous by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey, it is a challenging dish to prepare, however the result is definitely worth the toil.

Beef, Ale and Parsnip Pudding

When you ask people to think of traditional English fare, this has to be high on the list of responses. A hearty meal, this pudding is a great choice for winter weddings, and is simple to create.

Roasted Autumn Vegetables with Lancashire Cheese

A favourite amongst vegetarians, this colourful dish is simply bursting with flavour. Due to its versatility, this dish can also be served as a side with meat roast, for those who are looking for more than the vegetarian option.

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Mini Cherry and Almond Tarts

A cute and tasty take on the traditional Bakewell tarts, these miniature desserts are a great way to finish off a hearty English meal. The perfect combination between pastry and cake, these tangy tarts are light and great for guests with a sweet tooth.

Sugar-Crusted Scones

You can’t have tea without scones, so why not include this English staple in your wedding menu. Homely and versatile, you can serve scones with butter, preserves, or jam and whipped cream. Scones are a simply delightful way to treat your guests to a traditional English favourite.

When planning your menu, make sure to take into consideration the dietary requirements of your guests. A simple way of doing so is to ask on the invitation, and allow guests to respond with their RSVP. While on the subject of wedding invitations, remember to match your printed menus to your initial invite theme for a truly cohesive look.

Written by Emma Jane

Emma works as a wedding planner in Sydney. She recently had her own wedding held on Hamilton Island on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.