So for the month of January, we decided to look for our reception first. We plan to hold our wedding in my hometown as most/ almost all of my relatives are there. We started searching all around our city for our wedding venue. We first went to Cintai-Coritos Garden Hotel located in Balete Rd., Lipa. It was indeed a garden of paradise. The place was quiet, the function hall was spacious. However, the cost is unattainable for us at least. Their venue costs pHp 80,000 already and that’s all, no tables and chairs yet, no food, just the place. So we just moved on to the next one in our list- Mt. Malarayat Golf and Country Club. When we arrived at the reception area, we were told that their manager was out for lunch and that we have to wait for her as she’s the one allowed to discuss the packages with us. After 15 minutes we decided to ask if we could check out their function halls. They have I think 4 different function halls but the one we liked was the JP Laurel hall as it was big and has a high ceiling. But we got bored waiting for the manager to arrive so we just left, didn't even think of coming back. We went ahead and checked on the Mt. Rock Resort next. This is where my cousin got married last Dec. 7, ’13. Although I told Rain I don’t feel having my wedding on the same location, we still did check it out as it was also along the way. The place was also quiet, however, we didn’t like how the receptionist/ care taker talked to us although she was nice and all, I just didn’t like her. Bad impression on first encounter is going to be a big problem lol.
We went to the next resort on our list- El Grande Residencia Hotel and Resort, Lipa City. We used to go there with my family and friends so I pretty much know the place. We inquired about the packages they offer and we were happy to know that theirs are within our budget. We visited their function hall and although the interiors were ok, and it was spacious for 150 pax, it didn’t feel extra special for me but Rain and I decided to choose it anyway, considering the budget that we have. We were told that a wedding is happening the following week and that we can come over to see how the actual set up looks like. So after a week we came back, I was surprised to see some tables and chairs being placed outside the vicinity of the hall. We were told that the hall can only accommodate 150 pax, the rest will have to be placed outside. I was not troubled with it because we only plan to have 150 guests on our wedding. I took a quick look inside and I wasn’t very much impressed with how it looked like. I just thought that maybe, considering the price that they offer, it was just fair.
So Rain and I, still undecided, went ahead and search for other resorts. On our list was the Galilee Place in San Sebastian, Mataas na Kahoy. We had our Recollection here back when I was in college and I remembered how peaceful and serene that place was. However, upon reaching their gate, we were told by the neighbors that the place was already closed. I was a bit disappointed but then, we had to move on. Also located in Matass na Kahoy is the Shercon Resort and Ecology Park. We didn’t actually intend to visit this place but since it was also along that way, we decided to go anyway and this we did not regret!
Upon entering the resort, we were greeted by the guard, we were asked to park our car in the nearby area and we were directed to their office. The secretary immediately welcomed us with a big smile. She was very professional with the way she speaks and treats us. Her name was Diane. We were told about their packages and I was so pleased to learn how reasonably priced their packages were which already includes the catering services. They have an in-house caterer (Auster's Catering) that offers a wide variety of food to choose from. She then invited us to see their function halls. The first one, which she said was where most weddings are being held, was the Club Manuel Hall. It was also a timing visit as there was a wedding going on but the reception starts at 4pm and it was like 1 pm when we got there so we still have some time to visit the hall. Along the way, I felt the serenity of the place. It was so quiet and beautiful. All greens around us, perfect. And hey! There was a canopy! I imagined having picture of myself, walking along the middle of it, all dressed up in white :)
And then we finally reached the Club Manuel hall. The location was indeed great as it offers a spectacular overlooking view of Taal volcano and lake. I can imagine my guests taking lots of pictures all around. Although, it’s an open hall, it doesn’t really matter. The ceilings were high and covered with drapes. I was even thinking of renting some drapes for the ceiling but it was too costly so I crossed it out on my list. Now I don’t have to worry about it! There was a built-it waterfall I consider to be a really perfect backdrop for us. The centerpieces were simple yet elegant. I just love it. We didn't have to look at the other halls as this was already perfect. I told Rain we’re booking the place and we did! Now we have 2 in 1 major suppliers checked on my list – Wedding venue + Caterer. More to go!!!
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| can't help but post this photo of our venue. don't you just like it? |
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| and this is how it looks like with the decors and all |
