I’ve always dreamed
of a formal party for my mom. A small gathering where she can just sit, laugh,
and enjoy the moments with people close to her heart. It has always been my greatest desire since
childhood, but then last May, I was able to turn it into reality. Though I have
to sacrifice few things like my savings, time with friends, and some of my
personal needs and wants, they were all worth it.
BUDGET
Before I even
started planning, I’ve had a fix budget on mind. I promised to stick to it no
matter what or else my savings will be at risk. Little did I know that the preparation
stage would cost a lot more than that. Taking everything in account, I have
spent twice the budget I originally planned - all for a much better birthday
experience for mom. I have added a red carpet, stage lights, photo booth, and
not to mention the other 20 guests.
MOM
This has to be one
of the sub-topics since my mom would always argue with things like this. We’ve
had an endless discussion about the expenses, guests, and what not. Every time
we talked, she would always encourage me to stop the planning. I understand
that she’s just being practical, but as what I told her, it’s me being grateful
for all the things she did. Nothing will ever be enough to reciprocate a mother’s
love and care, but at least I hope that a simple gesture like this would make
her feel cherished.
LOCATION
We live in
Valenzuela but most of the ideal places were outside the city. Mom said that it
should be near our area so the guests won’t complain. Thanks to Google, I was
able to find “One Oceanus”. It’s not particularly in Valenzuela but it will do
(located in Meycauayan, Bulacan), who would say no to such a nice place! Though
we encountered a slight problem with the sound system, my transaction with Ms. Melissa
went smoothly. She’s attentive and kind, provided my requests and even gave me
an extra hour without additional charge.
Just Perfect.
CATERER
I think I have
searched the internet for weeks but found no caterer that suited my basic needs
and budget. But then, thanks to Facebook for introducing me to “First Option
Catering”. Sir JK was very professional in terms of my needs and requests. He’s
not intimidating, so I was able to tell him what I want and we’re able to arrange
things without getting too much on top of the budget. Though he wasn’t able to
attend the party, he made sure everything’s fine by making phone calls from
time to time. We experienced a technical problem causing their lights and
sounds technician to reassemble something that required a fee, but Sir JK waived
it so I won’t get an extra charge. He’s also my supplier for lights and sounds
and photo booth. His staff were accommodating and easy to get along with.
GUESTS
I’m only planning
for a maximum of 50 guests since I’m budget constrained. But then 50 became 70.
This was the most crucial part of my birthday party planning since we,
Filipinos, are somehow oblige to invite all our relatives and friends just to
not feel ashamed for not inviting them. But
at the end of the day, we have to be realistic and practical. We have to accept
the fact that we can’t invite everyone and we also have to let go of things we
can’t control.
INVITATION AND
SOUVENIRS
I decided to DIY
the invitation and souvenirs. Not only because I enjoy arts and crafts, but
also I could save money in doing this. I will update this for my DIY tutorials.
J
One Oceanus
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oneoceanus
Contact Person: Ms. Melissa Moraga
First Option Catering
Contact Person: Sir JK Hernandez
