First things first, church. Since we want to have our wedding on somewhere East, we started our church hunting journey at Antipolo and Marikina.
Disclaimer: subjective opinions, they are based from our preference.
1. St. Therese
-along Marcos Highway, in front of SM Masinag.
- 15k for the flowers, carpet, priest, pianist, soloist
pros:
-the altar is stunningly beautifulit
- isnt hard to locate, SM Masinag is a sure landmark
- even if it's non-aircon the place seems refreshing since there are lots of trees at the back
- wide parking lot
- Ate, the one who assisted us seems to be very friendly
- Not too strict with the dress code as long as there's a strap that will support the gown and no low necklines
- good for intimate weddings :)
cons:
- not too long aisle for the bridal march - not really my preference.
- there's an ongoing construction in front of the church by the SM Management- Jaylu is thinking that maybe next year the construction is already done.
2. San Antonio de Padua
J.P. Rizal street Calumpang Marikina
wasnt able to get the price, we arrived at the church at the evening, office already closed
pros:
- beside the marikina river, good for photo ops
- since it is located uphill, i personally like the stairs that you need to take before reaching the church
- small church good for intimate weddings
- no bystanders expected since the location is somewhat hidden
cons:
- too small for us, same with St Therese, no long aisle for the bridal march
- since this is a hidden church, location is not too accessible, guests being lost on the way to church can be expected
3. Our Lady of the Abandoned (OLA)
- Calumpang, Marikina
- wasnt able to get the price, we arrived at the church at the evening, office already closed
pros:
- love the facade with the "banderitas" hanging from the church to its gate
- love the long aisle, perfect for the bridal march
- i like the chandeliers, it gives the church an extra brighter mood
- huge parking too
- we were not able to take a look at the altar closely but from our view, so far so good
cons:
- i am expecting some bystanders around since it is somewhat exposed to the Marikina people
- truth is, the name of the church is bugging me, "Abandoned". hehe but not really a biggie, I can use the Spanish name of it, "Nuestra Senora de los Desamparados"
We are planning to have occular on 3 more churches around Marikina and Antipolo/Taytay area, but so far OLA takes the lead.
I commend Jaylu for being so patient and being so actively hyper during this day. To think that he woke up earlier than me, went to MOA early in the morning and need to meet me up after lunch time. His energy is unbelievable, there are times I would shut him up because he is so madaldal and hyper while I am being attacked with my migraine maybe because i feel so tired of walking walking walking. hehe I am hoping he will remain this energetic attitude all through out our planning process :)
We got home past 8pm and celebrated my Kuya Jason's birthday and stayed up until 3am. I was happy to see my 2 kuya, Kuya Joey, Kuya Jason and Jaylu beer bond with each other. Talking about life at work and giving us advises regarding wedding preps :)
credits to Google for the pics
