Monday, January 4, 2016

A Potential Venue in Tanay

Photo credits: Website of 10 cents to Heaven

I chanced upon this photo while searching online for farm resorts near Metro Manila. And I was like, could this be it???

I immediately saved the photo and searched further on its location. Turned out this is in 10 Cents to Heaven, a camp/resort that we have been meaning to visit when we drive to Marilaque again. Some of my friends have stayed in this place over the Christmas holidays so I can ask for their comments. I have also shown the photo to Rye and we will do a quick trip this weekend to further inquire about their rates.

I am so hoping we've found our venue.

Sunday, January 3, 2016

Reviewing our Wedding Budget

I was backreading some of my posts and realized that our original budget of P250,000 is really challenging. It gets more so as the days go by. Having just crossed 2016, rates of all suppliers can be expected to have gone up, with them shooting even further by the last quarter of the year. If I don't get my act together, I can definitely look forward to a more expensive wedding.

It is important that we get a venue that can be used for the ceremony and reception soon. We also need to find our caterer so we can lock in rates. And most important of all, we need to decide on the date. I know, my fault. I've been very occupied lately.

Honestly, at this point, I am no longer certain  if the P250K budget we are aiming for can be achieved. Still, I am not bent on giving in. Have to work double time though if I want this wedding to materialize.

Good thing I was inspired by two posts on Rebellious Bride: Planning a wedding under a budget of P150K (click here) and under P300K (click here)! They even had a tie-up with Q Provisions, a caterer I've been meaning to blog about but haven't found the time to do so. Hopefully, the 20% discount for Rebel Brides is still ongoing.

So, the search is still on. And the challenge is still up. A P250K wedding it is. Fingers crossed.


Saturday, January 2, 2016

Nurture Wellness Village

The whole family just got back from Tagaytay where we spent 4 days perfecting the art of doing nothing. We so loved the time to just lounge, watch Korean series, eat, sleep, repeat. But of course, for myself, we'll have to insert mommy duties. Especially now that Baby Y is a couple of weeks from turning 1, he's grown really demanding.

So sad the vacay had to end. Time really flies when you're having fun! But before heading home, we decided to check out a farm nearby--Nurture Wellness Village. Good thing they have a resto where we can have our lunch. It was the perfect excuse to extend our trip for even just a bit. 

Since we were advised that food would take a while to be served, we had time to roam the place. It houses a spa offering specialty massages and other wellness treatments, an organic cafe, and also villas and suites for guests who wish to linger. It may also be the first to offer glamping (glamourous camping)! 

Dining area


Photo credits: Nurture Wellness Village website

We spotted their cutesy pool near the dining area and Baby Y squealed with delight as we took some photos by the poolside. 

Photo credits: tripadvisor

The overall theme of the place appeared Filipino, with huts for villas and accessories showcasing Filipino culture. It recently rained so the grounds were on the muddy side, but all else seem to be well-maintained. Restrooms were particularly clean also. 

I would say it was an interesting place, at least for those seeking peace and quiet. There were enough activities to engage in but which would not disrupt the serene and relaxed vibe of the place. Rye seemed to like the place too since he went about suggesting it could pass for a wedding venue. 
Photo from website: Sample wedding ceremony set up in their Garden

Not far off from our farm-style wedding. We can just do re-arrangements to suit our theme. So, off we went to the Reception to inquire about their rates.

Package:
Exclusive use of the village
Weekdays: Php180,000 
Weekends: Php200,000

Non-Exclusive use is offered on weekdays only for Php160,000

Rates are for a guaranteed guests of 100 and are net of taxes and service charge already. Inclusions are use of the garden or pavillion for 5 hours, a room for the bride to prep, buffet meals, basic set up, and professional usherettes and wait staff. For those wondering, they use Tiffany chairs for the event.  

Buffet meal consists of your choice of 3 appetizers, a soup, salad and dressing, pasta, dessert, and your choice of 3 main course. For the drinks, you get to choose one of their house blend teas that will be served both as welcome drinks and during the meal proper.

Plus couples get to stay in one of their rooms overnight for free, with breakfast, massage and even a natural facial. To make their offer even more irresistible for couples, thevenue may be used for free for prenuptial shoot! Mmmm... That's not all! They also offer a lot of upgrades which would normally cost additional from other caterers.  

Rye's Thoughts:
It was a good place. One stop shop. And fits most of our requirements. We could probably go back to discuss other concerns with their AE.

My Thoughts:
I liked the ambiance. Thumbs up too for all their courteous staff! We could consider doing a weekday event to save up on the costs. Rates seemed reasonable given all the inclusions and freebies. Free use of venue for the prenup shoot is such a bonus, too.

Verdict:
Ohhh the food... it failed to impress. After our meal, which took really long to be served by the way, we were not so excited about the place anymore. We would not want our guests to travel all the way to Tagaytay and not be thrilled with the food. On a second note though, they offer free food tasting for the couple. I just don't know how it goes. Some venues require booking before you can proceed with the food tasting.