Life has a way of throwing us off our paths, and leading us to new ones. Peiru Teo embraced the challenge, and emerged from it with a thriving business – providing excellent service by marrying a traditional industry with the advantages of modern technology.

As women continue to be a driving force for change around the world, this series aims to highlight those who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to creating an impact.

In this exclusive interview, Connected Women caught up with Peiru Teo, Managing Director of La Belle Couture Weddings. This is her story.

How It All Began

I was an investment associate at a real estate private equity firm, and a management associate at Citi prior to that.

Life has a way of throwing us off the path, I think. It’s a path that I don’t think I would have thought I would be doing until it happened. I’ve always wanted to run my own business, having seen my father do so since I was young. His strong work ethic left a very deep impression on me. But it just happened that upon graduation, I found the finance industry very fascinating and so I wanted to give it a shot.

I had a smooth-sailing financial career when a friend approached me to take over a wedding business. I wanted to do something new, so I accepted the challenge along with a partner. However, the business was not what we had expected it to be, bleeding literally every day with cash flow mismanagement, and undisclosed liabilities of more than half a million dollars. My partner left and I was left all alone to turn the business around from scratch. I learned then that risks are necessary for high returns. I worked hard with my team, and we focused on various sales and marketing activities, until slowly we were able to balance quality and volume to increase our receivables.

Our work paid off when we later acquired valuable partnerships with world – renowned hotels like the Marina Bay Sands and Shangri-la. From bankruptcy, the business thrived; La Belle Couture Weddings Pte Ltd is now considered as a market leader in the wedding industry in Singapore.

Also, I feel very fortunate to have a supportive husband and family. Even if they are unsure or unfamiliar about the subject of what I’m working on, they continue to give me their blind support. Even through the worst of times, they have never once discouraged me from persevering to fight for my dreams.

Finance And Entrepreneurship

The financial industry to me was like a giant machine. In the industry, I eventually learned that to get things done or to secure approval would mean months of waiting – or even longer. While it was interesting, there was just too much red tape. I enjoyed that it is an intellectually-challenging industry, but I realised that a lot of it is creating value out of smart packaging of assets, arbitraging or buying/selling the same thing at the right time. It is very much a zero sum game, very often one man’s gain is another’s loss and it’s all about outsmarting each other.

It made me think. How can I create something out of ‘nothing’ and design it to be something that people see value in and are willing to pay for? Both are challenging – finance and entrepreneurship. But it is probably down to personal preference for which challenge I’d like to take up.

Key Source Of Inspiration

I saw my father growing his business, from a small set up to taking on all the major banks as clients; and how he was always so motivated and had so much energy. He worked from Monday to Sunday, would be back from work near midnight, and left early for it, before I was up. My weekends were spent playing at his office. He was also very smart, and solved problems for his clients by building software solutions.

But he too went through very tough times. In fact, this had a huge impact to the family, especially to my mom. But dad never gave up. He remained resilient, even when faced with a life-threatening medical condition while based in China. So perhaps my resilience came from him, to never take things for granted. As we grew older, my dad would regularly meet with us to share his business insights and learnings -including his mistakes.

This was a key learning experience for the whole family – especially for me.

Embracing Technology

About two to three years ago, my interest was sparked when I started to understand more acutely the importance of the role technology plays in growing a business, specifically on how it can help scale them at amazing speeds.

When it comes to technology, the wedding industry is quite backwards. The people behind it are not used to thinking in a process-driven manner, and striving for constant improvement. They are not used to technology at all. So I realized that this was an opportunity where I can take advantage of utilizing tech. I decided to do something to achieve speedy results, and the outcome gave me confidence to continue to experiment.

I believe that the future will increasingly be run by new technologies such as artificial intelligence. Its prevalence may even make it a commodity soon. I think not even the most traditional of all industries can escape this. We have to embrace it, and do our best to use it to our advantage. I believe that it is not even a choice but a must.

Technology And Endless Possibilities

I took computing in A levels, and have been in touch on and off. I’ve also been picking up coding as well. I’m very intrigued by the endless possibilities of what it can do that can give a different uplifted special experience. Also, I get this overwhelming sense of urgency all the time. I’d feel extremely uncomfortable if I were doing the same thing over and over again, i.e. the dreaded ‘comfort zone’. So something has to change, and it has to change fast.

Technology allows me to address this innate need. From the Augmented reality technology, to the suite of marketing technology tools, I’ve always found it very exciting to try new tools – and see how it uplifts the business in ways one cannot do through traditional means. And of course, I keep up by reading widely from tech sites such as Techcrunch and Venturebeat.

Regret As The Greatest Motivator

I think it was really the results, seeing how everything was unfolding, that pushed me to believe that I can do more, and impact more people and businesses beyond what I was doing. I’d say that it is normal to have doubts or be worried, it is very normal to be scared. But just imagine the regret you would feel if you didn’t do the thing you wanted to do versus the fear you have if you were to do it. Which weighs more? For me, regret is the worst feeling – and so it has become my greatest motivator.

I’ve read an article about a person who went to ask elderly folks about their feelings. Most of them replied that regret was the most painful feeling they felt. The article concluded that most people don’t regret what they’ve done, but regret what they did NOT do. This revelation had a great impact on me. Find something you are passionate about, even if let’s say you were not well paid (if at all). And find a way to be good at it. Then, add value and find ways to get paid.

The Struggle In Modernising

Don’t ever think that if you changed industries, all your past learning will go down the drain. The structure and processes I learned from finance helped me set things up in my wedding business. For instance, I was able get La Belle its ISO 9001 certification back in December 2016. More importantly, my financial management background helped me turn around the company’s dire financial state

I’ve learned a lot, and am able to help companies who are tech-challenged become tech-savvy. Personally, I’ve had my share of struggles from getting my staff members to adapt tech in my company, and I’m sure that I’m definitely not alone in this. Many other companies will be facing the same problems in modernising – and I see this as a great opportunity for me, standing in a good position to best understands their resistance, to eventually help them overcome it. We need to teach others how to maximize tech. After all, tech is no good if humans don’t use it.

Biggest Challenges

That I’m not moving fast enough. I wish I had 48 hours a day or more! There are so many things to explore and to experiment with in a business that is constantly evolving like a living thing. What works today may not work next month. The variables keep changing, and new ones keep being added into the equation.

Improving The Industry

I would really like to challenge the industry to be transparent and accountable to customers. Instead of conjuring excuses to explain why certain things can or cannot be done, and putting in ridiculously lengthened timelines (imposed on couples), why not look at letting customers understand more of what goes behind the scenes? It is neither rocket science nor a black box. Consumers nowadays are a lot savvier, and they will understand and appreciate knowing that their vendors are being upfront with them with their dealings. Talk about building trust.

I would also like to disrupt the industry by being able to offer efficient services to customer demands, without sacrificing quality of work. There is a line between taking the necessary time to produce quality work, and just taking the customer for granted that ‘they can wait’. To achieve it, perhaps a complete redesign of how work is carried out needs to be done. I’m not talking about the 5-10% improvement in time, but double or even quadruple improvements in speed of delivery, yet with the same or better quality.

Can it be done? I certainly think so.

Make an appointment with us now if you want to know more about our services!

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If you are reading this, you are likely to be curious if your relationship has what it takes to go to the next level. If you are already on your way there, then you are just visiting to check if the status of your relationship corresponds with the signs.

You must be thinking if the face of your partner is first thing you want to wake up to every morning, and the first person to annoy with your antics! Okay, we planted that in your head, but you are thinking about it, right!? We’re also kidding about the annoying bit, since your partner is supposed to love you for who you are. But hey, what’s fun without a little teasing and weird habits?

A marriage is a beautiful phase, as it represents the life-long commitment between two people who are dedicated to spend the rest of their lives together. But how do you know if you are there? Based on our bridal consultant’s experience with different couples, we have boiled it down to these seven unmistakable signs!

1. Being Able To Finish Each Other’s Sentences.

You don’t need to hire a psychic to read your partner’s mind: you are likely to have that abilityyourself! For some supernatural reason, you know the words to finish his sentences and the next thought that is going to pop up in his mind. You know what he is thinking and you don’t even need to ask him to elaborate on his opinions, simply because you get it.

Well, by being able to know what the other person is thinking, there won’t any playing hard to get, or quarrel-until-everyday-unhappy.  Okay, the second bit was made up, but you know it is true! Your wedding preparations will not be littered with mini-heart attacks and unprecedented surprises. Instead, it will be streamlined, as the differences are most likely to have been smoothed out through complete understanding of each other’s brainwaves.

2. Knowing That Happiness Is The Key To A Long-Lasting Relationship

Most couples reach this stage when they are able to compromise certain circumstances to ensure that the happiness is preserved and not tarnished by trivial matters.

However, this does not mean there won’t be a lack of disagreements. No disagreement is a good sign, but that’s exceptionally rare … and humans have very eccentric minds, which explains the unexplainable (see what we did there?) random mood swings.

But the difference is how you are able to set aside your differences and work out a solution together, instead of harping on about the nitty gritty details that are not subject to immediate change. This is an essential ingredient in a happy wedding, because the absence of this mindset will destroy your big day in front of your very own eyes. If you choose to view everything with bitterness and anger, then we can assure you that it is something that will not produce the best results.

3. Enjoying The Same Hobbies Or Having The Same Habits

Your friends probably accuse you of being so similar. From the way you two laugh at the same kind of jokes (which they usually don’t understand and scratch their heads at), having the same liking for a certain type of food, and even how (eerily) similar looking you both are! Because you both have been together for a while, somehow you two start to enjoy the same hobbies together. Even though opposites attract, similarities are usually the icing on the cake!

4. Appreciating Each Other’s Different Preferences

You may like to spend your time browsing through online shopping sites; he may enjoy playing computer games, such as Counter Strike. You prefer to watch chick flicks; he prefers the action and loud noises of cars racing against each other!

But here’s the difference. You might not know how to play computer games, but somehow you are able to sit beside him (miraculously) and root for him as he destroy his enemies. He doesn’t get chick flicks, but still watches the movie of your choice because he knows it will make you happy.

And that my friend, is a sign of appreciating each other’s preferences! Instead of nitpicking at each other’s idiosyncrasies, the both of you complement with each other, resulting in fruitful marriage that everybody will envy you for.

Look out for Part 2 of this article, where we look at the final three unmistakable signs that you are destined to be together forever!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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Wedding photography has always played a major role in weddings, whether it is pre-wedding or actual wedding day photography. The purpose of taking wedding photos is to ensure that the memories of the special day are captured forever.

However, there is a misconception about wedding photography. In general, couples tend to think that wedding photography is child’s play. Anyone can just take photos, right? A click of the camera and tada … you’ve got yourself a wedding photo! Sounds simple, right?

But how sure are you that the photo is going to turn out great? Is the photo able to truly capture the memory of your wedding day, the love between the both of you, and the gleeful smiles pasted on your guests’ faces? If you leave your wedding photography in the hands of your inexperienced friends, will they be busy capturing your once-in-a-lifetime moments, or spending the time taking selfies?

If you are in any doubt, here are five reasons why you should hire a professional wedding photographer:

1. They Know The Right Angles

Have you ever experienced that heart-wrenching feeling when you took numerous selfies and thought you might look good, but ended up looking much worse than you thought? With a professional wedding photographer, he/she is very aware of that and will ensure that every angle brings out your best features.

In other words, with a professional wedding photographer you don’t have to worry about that double chin, the lopsided cheeks or basically looking ridiculous in your wedding photos.

2. They Have Professional Equipment And Operate It Well

Although technology has rapidly advanced over the years, with much better smartphones and their high-tech cameras, you can’t compare it to professional photography equipment. Unlike a smartphone’s camera, a professional camera (e.g. DSLR) can be manually adjusted to fit the environment of your wedding photography session, and even to the kind of style you might prefer. For example, if there is harsh lighting in certain photography locations, the wedding photographer is able to change the settings of the camera to ensure the harsh lighting doesn’t ruin your wedding photos.

Of course, this is only a fraction of the whole process. Possessing the right editing software and a quality computer is equally important. You may argue that there are so many free mobile applications solely for editing photos with nice filters, so there’s no need for Photoshop or even a laptop! These applications definitely have very beautiful filters and are fairly easy to use, but they don’t guarantee a quality photo with high resolution. Therefore, it is important for wedding photographers to not only have the right software but also the ability to operate it to ensure that your wedding photos turn out amazing without compromising the overall quality.

3. They Know When To Create The Right Moments

Have you ever been in that awkward position when you are being photographed with a group of people, and your body movements are not in sync with your brain, and, before you know it, you are dishing out that oh-so-famous twist because that’s the only pose you know?

You wouldn’t need to worry about that with a professional wedding photographer, as opposed to a friend who is taking the photo. Your friend might just tell you to relax and do “your thang”, but you know it usually doesn’t work out well. On other hand, a professional wedding photographer knows how to guide you to create the right moment. For example, if you prefer the fun spontaneous shots, they will be equipped with the right skills to liven up the atmosphere to fit the mood.

Most importantly, they know it can be nerve-racking for you to pose in front of the camera. Hence, they are equipped with the communication skills (on top of their photography skills) to make you feel relaxed during your photoshoot. That’s one huge worry off your list!

4. They Know How To Work Under Tricky Conditions

With their wealth of experience, they are able to work under tricky conditions instead of being daunted by them. For example, if the lighting in a certain pre-wedding photography location is dimmer than usual, they will explore the venue and find the most favourable areas with the best sunlight. Or, if there are puddles of water because of rain prior to the photography session, they will be able to suggest locations that can complement your desired style.

This also applies to your actual wedding day photography. If your wedding venue does not possess the ideal photography conditions, a professional wedding photographer will be able to work with them to ensure that your wedding is ‘solidified’ and does not turn out sloppy.

5. They Are Fuelled By A Commitment To Bring Every Moment To Life

Professional wedding photographers are committed to translate every part of your wedding day or your love story into pictures that easily transport you back to the good memories. Also, they would not blindly take shots of your wedding, and are instead focused on taking the best wedding photos.

When you look at your wedding photos, you will be glad to know that every part of your wedding is documented beautifully, and not sloppily constructed with amateurish photos.

6. They Know How To Work With Time

As wedding photography usually takes place within a strict timeline, from taking the photographs to editing them to perfection, it is important to know how to work well within a timeframe, while taking the best shots at your pre-wedding session or actual wedding day. They are focused on capturing the moments and will not be distracted by other elements.

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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Getting married is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make in your life, and no one wants to regret anything about that day. In Part 1 we talked about how brides can have post-wedding regrets, and how to avoid them. Today, we’ll look at the final two so you can plan for a wedding without fear of regret!

Regret #3. Not Wearing The Gown They Feel The Most Confident In

As a bride, you are entitled to look the best on your special day. Every other woman in the room, young or old, must be second to you. That includes your mum and your bridesmaids. It is normal to not have a concrete idea of what kind of gown you should go for. You have zero idea what gowns accentuate your assets and the factors (e.g suitable necklines) to consider when you finalise the choice for your wedding gown.

You might also be tempted to include the groom, peers and parents into the equation, when it comes to choosing the gown. However, when there are too many voices, it hinders you from deciding on the perfect dress. In fact, you are more likely to abide by their requests out of respect and, before you know it, you end up wearing a gown that you don’t feel as confident in, or rather, you feel that you could have chosen something better.

Your opinion is what matters the most! After all, you are the one who’s wearing the gown, not them. But that’s easier said than done, because rejecting somebody’s opinion is as good as smacking them with an ice block.

Therefore, it is recommended that you only bring ONE person along when you are selecting your gowns. Also, your bridal consultant should be an expert when it comes to understanding your insecurities and suggesting gowns that will only transform you into a phenomenon that no guest will ever forget.

Regret #4. Too Busy Trying To Please Everybody

In Asian culture, it is the norm to entertain everybody to ensure that they have a good time. Then the bride and the groom become so occupied with entertaining everybody, engaging in small snippets of chatter with guests on a table, and then hastily cutting short the conversation to proceed to the next table.

Hence, couples tend forget to have fun themselves! And by the end of the day, all they can remember is doing a lot of walking, squeezing through gaps between the tables and ensuring that everybody is enjoying themselves. Not a great memory for any wedding, right?

Here’s a piece of advice: Do yourself a favour and don’t be overly concerned about your guests’ experience. Your guests are likely to be creative enough to find something to amuse themselves. Besides, witnessing the both of you entering into the next phase should suffice!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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Admit it, you want your wedding to be the most joyous occasion that is never short of laughter and bright smiles.

Eyes will start to tear up as you exchange your touching vows. It would be better if they cried as if they are pouring their hearts out, because it only means your wedding is so spectacular that it tugs at their heartstrings … pretty violently. Scary, but ideal, don’t you think?

Although everybody (well, almost) is dressed to the nines, they are ready to gorge themselves with the delicious cuisine. There will be the clinking of glasses as everybody toasts to your union. Most importantly, you are genuinely elated upon this sight and excited to watch your wedding day unfold.

Sounds great, right? But you must be thinking about how to achieve that? You are fearful of what your wedding will be like, and how you are going to feel throughout the wedding and the months of preparation beforehand. The truth is, your wedding day can rapidly turn into doomsday and you will undoubtedly regret that.

Unless you find joy in being angry (which, in this case, we highly recommend going for therapy or a stress ball), then let’s go through the top four regrets that some brides have post-wedding. At the end of this post, you must pinky promise to not commit the same mistakes. Got it? Okay, let’s go!

Regret #1. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Everything

This is the number one regret amongst couples who organised the wedding on their own or with a few friends, doing everything, and we really mean everything, from scratch. This includes wedding favours, finding the suitable vendors and planning out the whole schedule.

Yes, you do save a lot of money through DIY. But do you really save that much? Think about it. Even though you pay a small amount for materials and so forth, you are essentially spending a whole lot of time on your wedding. Every single day will be stressful, since you are solely responsible for the outcome of your wedding.

You will go to bed feeling extremely exhausted, but it becomes increasingly difficult to sleep. Why? Your mind will be so preoccupied with your wedding preparation. You feel that something is amiss and something could go wrong, and, before you know it, you will be experiencing a mental breakdown.

Instead of shouldering the burden, you can try to seek expert help. Remember, help is always available; it is a matter of whether you trust them with your wedding. Of course, the help comes with a price tag, but you are guaranteed good results! Why waste all the tears, time and effort doing what others can do, especially when it is their profession?

Regret #2. Not Being Spontaneous Enough During The Pre-Wedding Photography

Pictures are tangible forms of love, and, of course, you don’t want your photos to be typical. However, what stops brides from having an amazing pre-wedding photography is the idea of being photographed!

Truth be told, it takes a lot of confidence (and may we add, slight narcissism) to take those spontaneous oh-so-natural shots, like how models look effortlessly happy as they sip on their milkshake or they gaze away. And trust us, it is completely normal to feel self-conscious (including models!) to be in front of a camera and pose naturally.

However, what brides regret is when they become so nervous that it shows in their photos. What makes it worst is that there’s nothing they can do to change it, except to feel horrible about the outcome.

There is no immediate way to remedy the lack of confidence, and it takes a while to achieve that. Therefore, it is important to hire a photographer who is able to make you relax during your pre-wedding photography and try all ways to ensure that you don’t feel tensed.

Look out for Part 2, where we’ll explore the other two regrets couples can have post-wedding, so you can avoid them all!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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When choosing the perfect gown, there are two facts you should bear in mind before you proceed:

Fact 1

Not every fair-skinned maiden looks good in every shade of dress. Sometimes a certain shade can make you look washed out.

Fact 2

Not every Singaporean bride can be as fair as Snow White. Let’s face it, the sun here is really horrendous and the only way to be that fair is to stay indoors forever.

The truth is, all of us, including Asians, have different undertones, and we look good with different colours. Why is this so? That’s simply because all of us have different skin undertones, primarily warm and cool. It doesn’t matter whether you have fair skin or dark skin (by the way, every colour is beautiful).

Here’s a quick quiz you can do to check if you are a warm or cool tone:

1. What is the colour of your veins?

2. What kind of accessories look better on you? Silver orgold?

3. Now let’s try a white shirt. Do you look better in an off-white to cream shirt, or a bright white top?

There you go!Now that you can roughly work out what kind of undertone you have, here are pictures of wedding gowns and evening dresses that will suit you perfectly. Bear in mind that the colours in the pictures may not be exact due to the lighting. So, some gowns that look bright white are actually cream.

For Brides With A Warm Undertone

For Brides With A Cool Skin Undertone

However,possessing a particular undertone doesn’t purely determine the colours of your chosen dress. If you feel a specific colour represents your character but doesn’t complement your skin undertone, then ask yourself this: Do I feel beautiful in that particular shade? If you do, then just go with how you feel!

Alternately, if you have no idea what colour wedding dress or evening gown suits you, then ask your bridal consultant for advice. S/he should be able to gauge the colours that will bring out your features and brighten up your face, so be open to suggestions!

Of course, choosing the right colour is not the only factor to consider. There are many factors to take into consideration, such as your body shape, the different necklines and, of course, being confident in your own skin!

There were links in the final para.

393 words – could do with an intro

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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We’ve all seen those videos when the groom wells up with tears when he sees his bride-to-be walking down the aisle. We bet the emotional side of you goes awww, and you hope that your wedding will be this sweet.

However, if you are a fan of raised voices and angry squabbles, then this article is not suitable for you (and may we suggest that you seek counselling?). Otherwise, couples who have the intention of keeping their relationship strong and healthy should read these five helpful tips:

1. Go For A Jog With Your Partner At Least Once A Week

After a long day at work, all you want to do is rest on the couch, be it alone or with your partner. You might even open a bag of potato chips or indulge in a tub of vanilla ice cream as you watch the YouTube videos you couldn’t watch at work.

Instead of doing that (and gaining weight at the same time), you can use this time to jog with your partner once a week! It is a great opportunity to set a goal together and work towards it. For example, you and your partner could aim to finish 5km under 45 minutes, and progressively aim for better results. Besides that, you can get toned together, fit better into your wedding outfits and watch your relatives look at the both of you with great envy!

2. Prepare A Meal Together Instead Of Dining Out

A typical date is usually one where you dine out at a fancy restaurant or a nice bar. Even though the food is absolutely delicious, you are probably preoccupied by the bill. You might even remind yourself to scrimp on your lunches or even resort to eating bread and butter.

Instead of spending your money, you and your partner can cook a meal together! It doesn’t have to be 5-star quality or super-complicated, either (but we hope that it turns out edible, and perhaps you can share it with us!). This is a great opportunity to work as team, as you both discover how to use different ingredients as you follow the instructions written in the recipe!

At the same time, it can put your cooking skills to the test. Whoever is the better cook will be in charge of the meals in the future!

3. Put Your Phones Away And Catch Up With Life!

Technology plays a big part in our lives; all of us rely on it for pretty much everything. From spending time browsing through social media and finding something to gossip about, to reading interesting articles and researching the latest news.

Although there is a lot of interesting content on the internet, it stops you from having real conversations. Thus, when you are with your partner, put your phone aside and spend some quality time catching up with each other’s news, instead of finding out on social media platforms.

4. Give Each Other Little Presents From Time To Time

It doesn’t have to be a luxurious item. It can be a bar of chocolate to tackle the hunger pangs, a bag of candies to help stay awake, or a single rose. By buying something small (yet thoughtful), it will definitely make your partner feel appreciated as he/she feels that you always have them in your mind! Besides, it is a nice gesture and can help lift one’s spirit and mood, especially if your partner has had a rough day!

5. Thank Each Other On A Daily Basis

This is an important yet severely neglected factor that couples always forget to do. Take 15 minutes before going to sleep to thank each other. Thank your partner for greeting you cheerily that morning, or for him/her being there to chat with you when you were bored out of your mind, or for that time he looked at you with those loving eyes when he saw you in your wedding gown!

Of course, a healthy relationship comes with compromises and avoiding mistakes that both the bride-to-be and groom-to-be make! There are habits that couples should try to inculcate to ensure that their relationship prospers into something so beautiful that even your enemies have nothing bad to say about you!

Of course, the last part shouldn’t be the main reason for maintaining a relationship, but you know that would be a shiok feeling, right?

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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We’ve all seen those videos when the groom wells up with tears when he sees his bride-to-be walking down the aisle. We bet the emotional side of you goes awww, and you hope that your wedding will be this sweet.

And then you turn to look at your groom and think to yourself, is that even possible? Your groom has committed quite a few mistakes and it makes you wonder if you’ll ever enjoy a moment of relief, without the constant urge to smack him across the face.

Here are five bite-size accounts of what certain grooms-to-be did that made their partners want to pull their hair out, and fashion a whip out of it just so they had something to hit them with.

We are just kidding… or maybe not?

1. Nonchalant About My Wedding Gown And Evening Dress

*Tiffany: Sometimes I wonder if it was a good idea to bring him along to look at the wedding gowns or evening dresses. I can try on different cuts and designs, but to him it is just a wedding gown and apparently they all look the same.

What kind of logic is that? This gown has zero embellishments on it, no sequins, no crystals, no anything, and the other has lace all over it. How is it possible that there is no difference?

*smacks face with palm*

2. Not Giving His Suit Or Tuxedo Rental Much Thought

*Rachel: My guy thought the colour or design of the tuxedo/suit didn’t matter since ‘I will be the most beautiful one on that day’. He’ll just settle for something simple and picks off a tuxedo without much thought. I chose an evening dress in a rich shade emerald green. He chose a shiny tuxedo in a shade of maroon. I guess the theme of the wedding is Christmas…

I can’t deny that I want to be the most beautiful lady on our wedding day. Scratch that; I am supposed to be the most beautiful, most radiant, most perfect and whatever! But I want my partner to look good with me, and not appear less adequate. It would be nice if he cared a little about his tuxedo … unless he has a secret fetish for Santa, then I guess it is my downfall *crosses fingers*.

3. Playing With His Mobile Device When Asked For Advice

*Adeline: Whenever I am deciding on any aspect of the wedding and asking for a second opinion, he is always engrossed with his mobile device, playing whatever games he has recently installed. Whenever I ask him to stop playing, he just huffs and continues with the game! Are you marrying me, or the phone? Choose wisely.

4. Not Interested In Wedding Planning

*Michelle: Asking him for advice about something, such as the choice of invitation styles or my wedding gown, is equivalent to talking to a brick wall. And, I am pretty sure that there would be holes in that wall … the size of my fist.

I understand the lack of enthusiasm about the wedding gown, since he isn’t wearing it, but it would be nice to hear a few comments and be involved in the wedding. This isn’t MY wedding; this is OUR wedding!

5. He Thinks He Is Contributing By Staying Out Of The Way

*Hannah: My partner thought that it would be best to stay out of the way because ‘women prefer to be in control of the nitty-gritty details’ and he will only ‘make a mess out of everything’.

Honey, that is pretty sweet and partially true, but hey it is your wedding too! You can contribute a little by giving some suggestions, such as whether we should go with this hand bouquet, or if I should try another makeup style. I promise I won’t bite … unless you say something foolish, such as how I look like a whale in a certain wedding gown. That warrants a punch. Right?

*Not real names.

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Amber Valencia}

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Did you know that there are a few mistakes brides commit that drive their grooms up the wall? Here are the top four mistakes that brides make that annoy their grooms:

Not Believing Them When They Insist That She Doesn’t Look Fat

Justin: I don’t know if this applies to all brides, but my partner always seems to think that she is fat. I honestly think that she isn’t fat, and even if she were, I would love her regardless. On top of that, I offered to spend time with her to go to the gym or have a 15-minute jog, despite the fact that I am equally in love with my bed.

However, those comments always aggravate the situation and, somehow, I become at fault for stating the truth! I understand that she wants to look her best on our wedding day, and there’s a lot of pressure to be slim, since all eyes are on her. But I really don’t know what else to say! If I agree with her, I will be dead. If I disagree with her, I will be dead too. I did not sign up for this.

Going Overboard With The Crash Diet

Michael: A typical meal for her is one with no (or little) carbohydrates, lots of greens, fruits and green tea. Not only am I worried for her health but I am also amazed at how she manages to survive with such meager portions. Of course, her gastric pains, along with her mood swings, are more frequent than usual. And guess who bears the brunt of it?

Her bad tempers usually occur during the wedding preparation or anything related to the wedding. I usually don’t argue back because I know it won’t get me anywhere. Also, I don’t want her to feel worse about the wedding. She probably has a lot on her plate, and the last thing she needs is me being snarky about her diet.

Being Too Panicky About The Wedding Planning

Benjamin: I understand wedding planning can be very daunting, since we are all first-timers, and panic is part and parcel of the process. But she gets very panicky over the wedding preparation, which is pretty out of character for her. Also, she insists that I am not partaking in the wedding preparation since I am always ‘relaxed’ and always occupied with other activities.

Let me clarify for the sake of mankind (or just grooms): We do that not because we don’t care about the wedding; we just feel that there is no need to be nervous about certain things. If I am stressed about the wedding, I don’t see a need to ponder the problem. I would rather play a few rounds of DOTA to clear my mind. Plus, there is no need for one more panicky person in the planning process.

Putting Others Before Herself

Timothy: Personally, I feel the wedding is just between her and me. Decisions should be made together and not be influenced by other people, family or otherwise. It isn’t because we don’t respect their decisions and ideas; they are entitled to them. But when there are too many opinions shared, it stops her from making a decision, since she feels obligated to go with one that pleases everybody.

For example, she took a long time to choose her wedding gown because her family members kept dishing out different tips and advice. All I want is for her to feel comfortable yet confident in a wedding gown that she likes, and not choose something she doesn’t fancy!

There you have it; the top four mistakes that brides make that annoy the grooms. Have you committed any of them? Of course, there are many mistakes that couples make together. In other words, mistakes shouldn’t be solely distinguished by gender,right?

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Amber Valencia}

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Whether you’re looking for luscious greenery (in Part 1) for your wedding backdrop, or sunsets and dramatic horizons, we’ve got you covered for a beautiful and breathtaking Singapore wedding!

5. Changi Boardwalk

Here at Changi Boardwalk, you can see the tranquil water reflecting an array of subtle hues from the sky. The ferries on the sea also add that decorative touch to your photos. This is a great place for couples who want their pre-wedding photography to be more unique and appear serene.

There are four areas to explore at Changi Boardwalk. Sunset Walk is perfect for couples who love the sunset, while the Kelong Walk is suitable for those who prefer the long wooden bridge stretched across the sea. On the other hand, the Cliff Walk offers verdant greenery below the hilltop chalets, while Changi Sailing Club offers a picturesque view of the open sea.

Unfortunately, Changi Boardwalk is pretty inaccessible and can be quite hard to locate (even for the ‘easties’). Also, it is pretty difficult to find parking if you are driving. On top of that, there’s a fair bit of walking to do, so unless you are ok with ‘hiking’ with a 5kg gown and/or have your own transport, then we think that you can give this location a miss.

4. Raffles Marina Yacht Club

This is a popular pre-wedding photography location for its breathtaking views, where the jetties are flanked by yachts. You can hear the sound of the waves gently lapping against the yachts, as they are knitted together. It is a sight and sound that calms the soul and puts your mind at peace.

The only downside is that it is located in the west (we bet that you thought it might be situated centrally because of the word ‘Raffles’ in the name), and it may be difficult to arrange your pre-wedding photography itinerary. We also heard that there’s a fee of $350 to use the premises for wedding photography purposes.

3. Marina Barrage

If you are in love with the combination of the sea, yachts and sunset, then this is the perfect pre-wedding photography location. Elevated above Marina Reservoir, Marina Barrage offers a vast and urban cityscape against the horizon. The dazzling lights of the Singapore Flyer and the high-rise buildings in the Central Business District add a romantic touch to your wedding photography.

Even the sunset and the blue skies can be captured right below Marina Barrage. It is a great way to frame up the superb sunset!

2. Seletar Reservoir

Seletar Reservoir is the exact opposite of Marina Barrage. Instead of the grassy lawn and the urban landscape, all you can see here are the still waters, the peaceful atmosphere and, of course, the famous tree that seems to hold a life of its own, as it sways lightly in the wind.

Another famous part of Seletar Reservoir for pre-wedding photography is the bridge that seems to be floating on the water. You will look as though you are walking on water as you enjoy the full view of the alluring sunset.

1. Sentosa Beach

Sentosa Beach secures the number one spot for several reasons. First of all, being situated away from the hustle and bustle of Singapore, Sentosa Beach is an ideal wedding photography location that promises a sense of tranquility. With the fine sand, countless tall coconut trees and the soothing sea breeze, your pre-wedding photography experience will be nothing but enjoyable.

Secondly, the clear skyline offers a magnificent sunset that is not obstructed by random buildings. This is especially beautiful when the sunlight shyly permeates through the scattered clouds, and creates shades of coral, purple and blue across the sky.

Although transport is a little tricky and parking can be pretty expensive, Sentosa Beach’s overwhelming beauty is definitely worth the trouble.

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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You know that feeling when you chance upon a picture of nature and greenery on Tumblr or Facebook, and you think to yourself ‘Singapore confirm don’t have such place one lah!’

It is probably true … to a certain extent. Given Singapore’s undeniably fast pace of life, you probably rarely have the opportunity to rest, let alone discover the gems of nature in Singapore! So, yes, it is partially true but that’s only because you enjoy two kinds of commutes: one to work and one back home. You know you are nodding at this.

Before you dismiss Singapore as an ideal location for nature shots, give us a chance and read our top five Singapore wedding photography locations that definitely fit the bill!

5. Punggol Waterway

Although it is merely four years old, Punggol Waterway Park is steadily becoming couples’ first choice of wedding photography locations. Although it is man-made, it looks nothing like that. The harmony between the thick foliage and the calm waters is the perfect combination of romance and tranquility. This harmony is even more obvious (and lovelier) when the blue sky is reflected on the calm water!

There are four sections within Punggol Waterway: Nature Cove, Recreation Cove, Heritage Zone and Green Gallery. The more popular sections are Nature Cove and Green Gallery, where there is more greenery.

4. Turf City

Two things come to mind when you think of Turf City: horse riding and Pasarbella. There’s a lot of yummy food there, as well – but we’ll leave it there, before we hear our tummies rumble! On top of that, there are many recreational activities that are great for helping people to wind down and getaway from the typical hectic lifestyle in Singapore. But beyond that, there are secret spots that will elevate your pre-wedding photography to a whole new level.

Singapore has such majestic trees and, yes, these trees are real. On top of that, the tall grass and the abandoned fences give Turf City that ‘overseas’ vibe, which is really great! That way, you can trick your wedding guests into thinking that you had your pre-wedding photos taken abroad … Sounds like a grand plan, doesn’t it?

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens is not only inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also the first and only tropical botanic garden on the list!

Singapore Botanic Gardens is showered with majestic structures, such as white pavilions, rich flora and fauna with a plethora of colours. The peaceful atmosphere will turn your pre-wedding photo shoot into an enjoyable one! Although Singapore Botanic Gardens is very large, almost every part of it serves as a good backdrop.

This means you are not limited to the popular spots, such as the Healing Garden, Sun Garden and The Swan Lake. This also means you can be away from the crowd (we heard it can get packed on weekends) and not worry about a random tourist in the background of your photographs.

However, it is advisable to do a recce first to discover Singapore Botanic Gardens’ hidden spots before your pre-wedding photo shoot. That way, you can plan your session better. Also, you can ask your photographer for advice; he/she should be experienced enough to know all the hidden gems!


2. Fort Canning Park

Being a witness to several historical milestones (did you know that there were palaces in the 14^th century for Malay Kings?), Fort Canning Park has grown into an iconic pre-wedding photography location with its lush greenery, eroded relics from the Japanese Occupation during World War II, and the artefacts that look weathered yet undeniably vintage.

As Fort Canning Park is heavily sheltered by tall and overarching trees, it lends shade (thankfully!) to couples from the blazing heat. Furthermore, the wide trees with their sprawling branches and leaves stop the full force of the sunlight from penetrating through, creating that natural lighting that will look amazing in all your wedding photos!

With regards to location, it is just right behind the National Museum, which is pretty accessible. Furthermore, being located in the heart of Singapore only means that it is easier to plan your itinerary, as most of Singapore’s popular pre-wedding photography locations are situated centrally.

1. Hort Park

Finally, we are down to the most popular location that looks nothing like Singapore. Located in the Southern Ridges, Hort Park is filled with many gorgeous shades of green and orange that look nothing but beautiful, especially under the sunlight.

On top of that, the dense foliage helps create depth in your wedding photos and gives that romantic touch. The plain fields and the trees in Hort Park make it look like it doesn’t belong to busy and urbanised Singapore! Hooray for being away from the hustle and bustle!

Not only it is beautiful but you also get to enjoy a private and personal time there since Hort Park is well known for its serenity and comforting quietness. This means only one thing: there will be no prying eyes and you will be comfortable to do whatever you want to do! Strike the funniest poses without feeling judged!

Of course, having an enjoyable pre-wedding photo shoot isn’t all about choosing the right location. There are many things to consider, such as having a good posture and even having a packing list! Also, the best kind of pre-wedding photoshoot is the kind that is smooth and lacking in mistakes!

Look out for part 2 of our top Singapore pre-wedding photography locations!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Images from La Belle Couture
Edited by Amber Valencia}

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We all have those guests who we kind of dread inviting to our wedding, for various reasons. Peiru Teo of La Belle Couture covered the first two in part one, and now we’re looking into the last three, and what you can do instead of dreading their arrival! 

Wedding Guest No.3: The One Who Is Anti Wedding And Is Bitter About Anything Related To Love

Having gone through a rough patch, this kind of wedding guest has a cynical view about marriages and doesn’t see the purpose behind celebrating the union of two fully committed individuals. They simply don’t believe in weddings, or rather, they have warped perspectives on it.

With that, they are quick to disparage any positive thoughts about love and will never allow themselves to see the good in situations. Such wedding guests may rebut your views on your wedding and remind you that all the efforts you have invested in preparation for your wedding will come to nothing.

You are probably afraid of two things:

1. Mentioning something casually that might remind them of their past hurts and get them going on a seemingly endless tirade.
2. Unleashing your true thoughts and getting into a huge argument during your wedding.

What you can do:

Kindly remind them that positivity is greatly appreciated … no snarky comments please. They might have had an awful experience, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are going to go through the exact same thing. Let go and they will be happier.

The post What To Do With The 5 Types Of Wedding Guests You Don’t Want To Invite Part 2 appeared first on Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals..

Admit it. When you are preparing the list of people to invite to your wedding, you have that one wedding guest (or more) who sits right at the back of your mind and is close to being a thorn in your side. You know that he/she has the talent to turn your wedding from a yay to a nay!

Your wish is to not have them as part of the wedding guest-list, but you know that, sometimes, that can’t happen because they are somehow connected to another guest who you want to invite. Not inviting them is as good as poking the eye of an angry dragon.

Sending a wedding invite is harder than solving the world’s most difficult mathematic problem. What’s worse? Calling them personally to check their availability because you need to properly allocate your guests to the right table. And, of course, you secretly wish that the outcome is for them to not be available on your wedding day, but deep inside you know that is unlikely to happen.

We have listed five kinds of guests we hover between inviting and not inviting, and solutions to ensure that they don’t ruin your one and only special day!

Wedding Guest No. 1: The One With A Loudhailer Baby

Sometimes, it isn’t because you dislike this guest, but you are so afraid to invite their whiny children to your wedding. You may have witnessed them screaming the top of their lungs, and making a huge fuss for not having things their way. You may have even seen them shouting at people who don’t worship the ground they walk on, or even throwing things around because…well, they can.

You begin to think that if they are going to pull the above stunts at your wedding. Instead of listening to a melodic live performance, it will be drowned out by the shrill voices of these monster babies, whose energy levels never seem to subside.

You are probably afraid of two things:

1. Watching a child steal your limelight at your wedding.
2. Reprimanding the child in front of your wedding guests and appearing like an unreasonable bride/groom.

What you can do:

Kindly tell your guests to not invite their children because it is a wedding and the last thing you need is to watch a child destroy your big day. They will probably understand where you are coming from and will try to accommodate your needs.


Wedding Guest No.2: The One Who Is Narcissistic (a.k.a Kiasi)

There’s always that one guest who likes to compete and wants to come out tops. They will always have something to flaunt about when you are sharing great news, because it is difficult for them to be in second place. Everything is a competition to them, and the only way to stop them is to let them win.

For example, after such a long time, you finally managed to find the dream wedding gown at a bridal boutique,and you were so happy about it. When you share the news with them, they somehow are able to discuss THEIR choice of outfits and how they got them from this luxurious brand, which is probably a lot more expensive than your outfit! Geeeeezz.

You are probably afraid of two things:

1. Wasting your time listening to things that are of no use.
2. Whipping out your duct tape to…well…tape over their mouths?

What you can do:

Kindly tell him/her that if they manage to not talk about themselves during the wedding, they will be considered the winners of the wedding. Otherwise, they shouldn’t attend your wedding and they should keep that egoistical streak elsewhere, because you don’t have time for that.

Look out for the second part of this article, where we introduce you to the other three guests who you don’t wish to invite to your wedding: the one who is anti-wedding, the know-it-all, and the gossip!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture
Edited by Amber Valencia}

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After prioritizing your wedding wants and doing tons of research online and offline (in Part 1), now is the time for you to make an informed decision on what is realistic given your budget.

Step 3: Budget

We have categorised three types of weddings for you. It is important to bear in mind that no single category is superior over the other — it really depends on what type of wedding you would like to have as a couple.

The No-Frills Wedding

Believe it or not, it is possible to have a no-frills, no-drama wedding in Singapore. ROM for instance, offers no-frills solemnization rooms and services to keep weddings affordable. The key to a no-frills wedding is to keep things really simple and sweet.

For couples who want to embark on the no-frills wedding, this budget breakdown could be a good guideline:

• Bridal package – 15%
• Wedding ceremony – 5%
• Wedding banquet – 60%
• Honeymoon – 20%

There are also budget friendly wedding banquets that cost from SGD$100 to $500 per table, but let’s not expect exotic delicacies here! It is also possible to reduce the honeymoon spending by opting for vacations in neighbouring countries.

The “Norm”
The average Singaporean couple spends SGD40,000 to SGD50,000 on their weddings. A mid-priced wedding package costs around SGD3,500. The average cost per table ranges from SGD600 to SGD1200, depending on the reception venue.

Extravagant

Extravagant weddings cost around SGD80,000 up to SGD150,000. An expensive wedding package costs around SGD5,000 to SGD7,500, and wedding rings that are specially tailored to the couple can cost above SGD10,000. If you have the means to plan such a fairy-tale wedding, then go ahead and enjoy it. Also, be sure to take your honeymoon in Europe, or somewhere far away and have the best time of your life!

Always remember to include a buffer of 10-20% of your budget for emergencies! Very often, we hear stories about couples overspending on their budget. That being said, whenever you have decided on a budget and a list of items, be sure to stick to them and not add onto the list. This is to keep the overall costs in check!

So here are the three financial rules to bear in mind for your wedding: Prioritize, Research and Budget. Have fun planning!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru’s work.

The post The 3 Golden Rules For Wedding Finances: Prioritize, Research, Budget! Part 2 appeared first on Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals..

One of the most difficult things couples face is deciding what to prioritize in their wedding planning. With 1001 things on your to-want, to-get and to-do list, how do we cut this list down, or how do we know where and how much to spend on?

Step 1: Prioritize

The answer lies in asking yourself and your partner what you value most. After all, one man’s meat is another man’s poison. For instance:

• If you are both foodies, then you might want to consider putting food and catering as the topmost priority;

• If fashion and style is important to both brides and grooms, then more budget can be allocated to a specially tailored bridal dress, or a smart designer suit;

• If photography is important to you, then it might be wise to allocate more budget to hiring an established and creative photographer.

In general, given a fixed budget, prioritizing implies that less important things can be done away with.

What are considered less important things then? It can be doing away with serving Shark’s Fin at the dinner banquet (not to mention that it is more humane too). Or it can be cutting down spending on a live band, or holding the wedding dinner at a four-star (instead of five-star) hotel.

In short, if flowers, fashion and food are your thing, shuffle more finances there and less to wedding decoration, stationery and videography.

So start doing this by creating 2 lists – 1) WANTS and 2) NEEDS, then jot down what the items are that you think belong to each category together with your other half.


Step 2. Research

On average, wedding receptions and catering take up 40% -50%, photography takes up 10%, attire takes up 8%, decorations 10-15% and entertainment 10% of the wedding budget. This budgeting excludes the price tag of going on honeymoons, but will be a good starting point to decide on your budgeting.

One of the biggest wedding planning mistakes made by couples is underestimating cost for services. For instance, it might be tempting to think about wedding photography as “Just taking photos only mah, what’s the big deal?” while ignoring the years of experience, education and professionalism the photographer has accumulated. Also, wedding photography is no mean feat— photographers have to spend a considerable amount on lens maintenance and photo-shopping the photos after the shoot. All this time and expertise have to be factored into the service fees for the wedding photo shoot.

The underestimation of various items on your list will have huge effects, especially when they add up! Knowing the exact costs via research will help you to determine a realistic budget. Having flowers imported from Holland, for instance, might not be as inexpensive as you think—in some cases imported floral arrangements can cost up to SGD20,000! So do your research, and do not assume too much!

Doing your research beforehand and keeping a tab on costs can also aid tremendously when you are communicating costs with your family members, especially when they are helping out financially. Since it is partly their money you are using, it is then imperative to ensure that you get a reasonable deal!

The friendly wedding professionals at our La Belle Couture team are always here to help you plan your ideal wedding. We are patient with any questions you might have come across in your research process and would love to hear from you! If you have a question, just leave a comment below or drop us an email!

Keep your eyes open for Part 2 where we'll discuss different financial breakdowns depending on whether you wedding is low-key, traditional, or extravagant!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture
Edited by Amber Valencia}

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As guests at a wedding, it can be confusing as to how much to give in the red packets or ang paos. After all, it is a matter of “face” – give too little and the host might think you are stingy; give too much and people might think you are showing off (although they won’t really complain, unlike the former).

In Singapore, there are unspoken rules of giving red packets at Chinese weddings. Traditionally, red packets are regarded as auspicious, and the act of giving ang paos at weddings is close to mandatory. In Singapore, the tradition of gifting isn’t quite as well accepted as it is in the United States. Bridal shower concepts are also not as common; before the wedding, the bride’s friends and family shower her with gifts and presents that she will need. Perhaps, being Asian, money is more practical.

Annually, lists of red packet rates are released by some websites. These are usually loosely based on the banquet costs per head.

In layman’s terms, this amount is the average amount you should be giving, or are expected to give. In statistical terms, it is known as the “mean”, and how much more or less you can give is known as the standard deviation.

Anyway, back to the laymen’s terms. If you are on excellent terms with the bride or groom, you can add S$50 or S$100 to this average amount. Most guests, however, would opt to be safe and just give the average amount because it is only polite. In the event that you are a student, unemployed or are not particularly close with the bride or groom, you can give slightly less. If you are a colleague, feel free to give the average amount, but if you are the boss you are expected to give more. The problem nowadays in Singapore is that inflation is rampant and, therefore, venue and reception costs are rising everywhere. Therefore, be sure to always check this “list” of wedding reception venues for red packet rates!

There is a myth that restaurants and buffet options are cheaper than usual dinner banquets. Often, though, buffet rates are not listed: they often cost the same as dinner banquets! Even if the couple doesn’t select a hotel venue in a grand ballroom, dinners in an intimate restaurant, even with a lower number of courses, can cost as much as one held in a hotel. This is also true when the couple needs to spend more on the decoration of the location, as most non-hotel venues do not include floral decorations as part of the package.

The next question would be – just exactly how much are you supposed to give? Well, it would be an auspicious thing to give a monetary figure that ends with the digit “8”, since it symbolizes fortune and acts as a good blessing to the newlyweds. Do avoid the digit “4”, since it is regarded as a dark omen of death! In general, give in multiples of twenties rather than tens. For example, S$160, S$180 or S$200, rather than S$130 or S$150.


In the event that you are unable to attend a wedding dinner at the last minute, you are still expected to give a red packet, since the couple needs to pay for your seat regardless of whether you turn up or not. In that case, it would be acceptable to give slightly less than the average rate. This shows sincerity to the couple that your blessings are with them despite not being able to attend, regretfully!

Another recent phenomenon we have observed is that couples are beginning to hold their weddings at unconventional places, such as a café or restaurant. In such cases, how much should you give? Discuss this with your group of friends beforehand and agree on a common rate. A good idea would be to call the establishment to find out the “breakeven cost” for the venue, so that at least the bride and groom would not be making a loss.

What if the couple has a church ceremony or a Registry Of Marriages ceremony on another day? Generally, if you are joining in the couple’s banquet, some people do not give much, or anything, during the ROM, but instead give it all together at the banquet. However, if you are only joining the ROM, be nice and contribute a token sum.

Weddings are incredibly fun events, so remember to give the appropriate amounts in red packets. If in doubt, it is always good to err on the side of generosity. You never know, some people keep spreadsheets and when it's your turn they might return the favour!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin
Reference:
2016 Ang Pao rates by La Belle Couture}

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As much as we love inspirations occasionally, this time we’d like to offer more valuable insights. Ever heard the saying “Too much of anything is never good”? With this in mind, here are some tips from experts for what to do/not do when it comes to your wedding hair.

Dos

• DO have a hair trial in advance. This would enable you to determine whether or not the stylist is able to cater to your needs, wants and/or style.

• DO take photos along with you. As we all have played charades before, we know that telling isn’t the same as showing, so bring your photos to your appointment! This will help your stylist know exactly what you’re looking for, and recommend certain changes to better suit you, to make it look even better.

• DO bring any accessories that you will be wearing and let your stylist know if you’ll be wearing any flowers. This would enable the stylist to have a better idea on which hairdo would compliment your accessories and/or flowers to make you look your best on your wedding day.

• DO be open-minded. Hairstylists do this for a living and if you allow them the freedom to expand on your ideas, who knows what amazing styles they’ll come up with. Because, more often than not, that exact hairstyle that you’d die for would end up not looking “to die for” on you. Thus, it’s important to get to know your own hair and know what looks best on you.

• DO be honest with your stylist. Prior to the previous point, if your stylist’s suggestion is really out of your league, do not hesitate to let him/her know. Speaking up is the best way to ensure 100% satisfaction for your wedding day hairstyle, so be as open and clear as possible.

• DO communicate. Inform your stylist on the style of your wedding dress, especially the neckline (bustier top, off-shoulder, toga). Don’t forget to also talk about the overall theme of the wedding, so that the stylist would be able to suit your style according to your various needs and wants. Remember communication is key!

• DO consider going for a hair treatment a week before your big day. An in-salon deep conditioning treatment will ensure that your locks are in tip-top condition.

Don’ts

• DON’T show your stylist your entire inspiration photo collection. Narrow it down to three to five at the most, and your stylist will have a good idea on the type of styles you prefer and it would definitely give him/her some room for creativity. After all, they are the experts at this.

• DON’T pick hairstyles that do not go with your hair length, cut and/or colour. You could fall in love with the way the person looks in the photo, but the style may not suit you.

• DON’T have unrealistic expectations. For instance, if you have short hair and know that it wouldn’t be able to grow much before your wedding day, don’t look at hairdos that require long hair. Keep in mind that everyone has different hair length, texture, density of hair, thus, results will not always be the same as you envisage.

• DON’T consider too many opinions. Similar to choosing your wedding dress, opinions start to get cloudy when your whole family is around and you end up not knowing whom to please, and that’s certainly something we would like to avoid. So keep things simple and ask along someone who has a similar style.

• DON’T overthink it. Sometimes, less is more. Try not to choose a hairstyle that would end up looking dated when you look back on your wedding photographs in the future. Classic looks are always a smart idea for creating an everlasting photo.

• DON’T take the phrase “wedding hair” too seriously. Don’t forget that the groom-to-be fell in love with you. So if you’ve never worn an up-do in your life, you don’t have to start on your wedding. Wear your hair in a style that makes you feel not only beautiful but, more importantly, comfortable as well.

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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The post Style Inspiration: Wedding Hair Dos and Don’ts appeared first on Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals..

Puberty is part and parcel of life. So were the nicknames I lived with.

As my chest developed, I was given nicknames that plainly explained my bust size. How … creative. On an irrelevant note, I also name my boobs: boob 1 and boob 2. I, too, can be very creative.

My female friends and acquaintances always say the same things to me:

“You are so lucky to have a full chest! I want also don’t have.”

“Why don’t you flaunt your assets? Show a bit of cleavage, lah!”

“Dua neh bu, your olang (orange) want to come out liao!”

And the most commonly asked question: “Wah, your breasts take from where? Father or mother (father’s or mother’s side)?”

It would have been very interesting if I had got them from my father.

Any other questions/statements are essentially the same, just phrased differently. But I have to be very cautious with the way I answer them. My responses may potentially injure my friends’ self-esteem and make them feel worse about their lack of boobs. In other words, I have boobs and I need to tread on wafer-thin ice. Life is such.

On the other hand, my male friends and acquaintances are quieter. But that’s only because they are too preoccupied with my massiveness. Sometimes they earnestly ask how I am even able to walk, with my two heavy weights. And I am like … what has the movement of my limbs got to do with my boobs? It would a lot more logical to ask about my SPINE’s ability to support my large fatballs.

Unfortunately, men are simple-minded creatures. My groom-to-be might be one of them. But I still love him anyway.

When I was planning my wedding, my close girlfriends asked me what kind of gown I was searching for. The moment I said I was looking for something with a high neckline, they gasped in horror.

I thought I touched a nerve.

Turns out they felt that my preferred choice was totally wrong and I should totally reveal my cleavage. After all, it is something every girl wants … no?

Truth be told, I always feel self-conscious whenever my boobs decide to peek out from my lower-cut tops (which, incidentally, don’t look that low on most people) and greet leering eyes. My boobs swing precariously if I do any sport, as if they were about to flying out of my chest and perhaps land on a passerby. A picturesque thought, isn’t it?

Also, shopping is usually a drag because most clothes either fit my body but somehow my boobs seem too eager to burst out.

But, there is a silver lining to everything. Because of my full rack, I am able to fit into bralette tops much better than girls with a smaller bust. Furthermore, being well endowed provides me with that curve whenever I am in the mood to look sexy.

You can say that I have a love-hate relationship with my boobies! Feel the same way? Leave a comment and share your woes!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

The post Singapore Wedding Stories: Confessions Of A Busty Bride appeared first on Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals..

We’re always on board the DIY wagon. Not only does it help save costs, it also adds a personalised touch, especially on your wedding day!

Today’s DIY Project: Guest Books

Gone are the traditional bound guest books, which end up collecting dust on your shelves. These 10 creative and out-of-the-box ideas also double up as gorgeous, unique pieces to display in your newlywed nest.

1. Framed Messages

Puzzle Lover

If you love jigsaw puzzles, this would be perfect for you! Once everyone has written their messages, piece them together and frame your personalised puzzle. Another way to do this is to prepare a jigsaw image of you both, and have guests write messages on the back.

Paper Cut-Outs

Have your guests sign little slips of paper cut-outs for you to later arrange in a frame and display in your home. This versatile idea can be adapted to any personality – classic paper hearts, fun balloons, and so on. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity take over!

2. Wooden Letters

A simple ‘Mr & Mrs’ for you to hang in your home, to always remind you of the day you both said ‘I do’. Which reminds us that you could also consider getting a wooden cut-out of ‘I do’. But keep in mind the number of guests you’ve invited and whether all their messages would fit on it.

Another way to do this is to get wooden letters of both your initials. Have your guests sign their names on the blocks and you could display them on a table/shelf instead of framing.

3. Artwork

Finger Printing

The artsy couples can consider a fingerprint guest book. Be sure to prepare wet wipes so that guests are able to clean their fingers immediately after!

A twist from the original version – guests can also doodle over their prints.

4. Picture Frame With Border

You’ll probably pick one wedding photo to display proudly at home, so why not pick a frame with an extended border and have your guests write their messages on it.

5. Globe

If your guests have come from all over the world, consider a globe guest book and have them sign from where they’re from. You could also get them to include a famous restaurant for you to visit if you go there.


6. Notecards

Instead of having congratulatory messages, have your guests fill in advice and well wishes. It’ll be fun to read them after your wedding when you want guidance or need certain advice.

We especially love a library-inspired guest book, which separates the messages into various categories!

7. Photo Book

Photo Booth Book

We know we said no bound guest books, but photograph ones are too cute to say no to! If you’re already having a photo booth station, have them print an additional copy for your guests to put inside the guest book.

Polaroid Book

This idea also works with Polaroids: however, be sure to have enough film for everyone!

8. Shadow Boxes

Sign Hearts

We absolutely love this modern twist of the guest book. Have your guests sign a heart and drop it into the frame for you to remember the ones who came.

Mason jar shadow boxes might be a little costly to purchase, but they're just gorgeous!

9. Typewriter

For vintage lovers: you could have your guests type their messages on a typewriter. You might end up with a queue at the ‘Guest Book Station’, but I’m sure your guests wouldn’t mind, as it’s not every day that they get to type on a typewriter.

10. Wine Lovers

Anniversary Notes

Have your guests leave you messages in wine bottles, each labelled with an anniversary. Similar to a time capsule, what makes this special is that you and your beau would have to wait until each anniversary to open the messages. Imagine reading the messages on your 25th anniversary; it would be like reliving your wedding day – such a surreal experience.

You could also use these bottles as table placements.

Sign The Bottle

If you prefer to go paperless, you could also consider having your guests sign directly on the bottles themselves.

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture
Edited by Nedda Chaplin}

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One way or another, we’re all guilty of leaving wedding favours behind. The reason: What use do we have for them once we’re home? To avoid your guests leaving their favours behind (since it all costs money), why not give them something that they can actually use?

Today’s DIY Project: Wedding Favours

From candy, to flavoured oils, to scented soaps, these 10 ideas might even cause your guests to ask for more!

1. Fan Yourselves

Whether you’re having an outdoor wedding or not, guests would definitely appreciate this wedding favour, especially here in our hot and humid little red dot.

2. Candy Bags

It might be pricier customising your own candy, but if you’re up for it, we’re sure your guests would love it as much as you do. Besides, who doesn’t love candy?

Customised Candy

It might be pricier customising your own candy, but if you’re up for it, we’re sure your guests would love it as much as you do. Besides, who doesn’t love candy?

Cover-It-Vintage

Another way to do this is to wrap the candies in a vintage handkerchief. You could also buy a bulk of the material and cut it up to save the cost getting individual handkerchiefs/materials.

Mint To Be

This pun never gets old! We’re sure that your guests would appreciate these mints when they’re looking to freshen up their breath, especially after having one too many drinks during your wedding.

3. Healthy Snacks

Everyone wants to be healthy! So what better way to remind everyone to stay healthy than with a healthy snack as a wedding favour?

4. Drink Me

Tea Lovers

Frankly, who doesn’t love tea? Come up with your own specialty tea for your guests to enjoy on a cold gloomy day. What we love about this idea is that you also have a choice of picking caffeine-free leaves.

Coffee Beans

For a caffeinated option, consider giving coffee beans.

Hot Cocoa

On the other hand, you could also prepare these lovely, pre-made, flavoured hot cocoa tubes for your guests to enjoy the morning after. All that’s left for them to do is add hot water and they get a nice cup of cocoa!

5. Jams And Honey

Remember grandma’s delightful jam? If you already have a recipe, get it out! If not, the web has an unlimited number of recipes, which are already tried, tested and won’t disappoint. Who knows, your guests might even come asking for the recipe once they’re finished with their jar.

6. Flavoured Oils

Who doesn’t love flavoured oils? Your guests would have multiple uses for this. They can use it as a bread dip, or add it to their salads, and it would taste heavenly.


7. Spice It Up

We love spices, and so would your guests. These would come in handy when they’re in need of a quick fix for marinating or just to spice a sauce up. Come up with your own spice mix or search for one online.

8. For The Bath

Finally, a wedding favour we can actually use! You could either buy soap bars in bulk or take it a step further by making your own specially for your big day! Believe us when we say that your guests would definitely love this. After all, who doesn’t love smelling heavenly after a bath?

9. Scented Candles

If you don’t mind experimenting and getting your hands dirty, consider making your own scented candle. Similar to the soap bars previously, personalise your own scents to make it extra special.

10. Potted Plants

Think dried flowers and succulents; your guests would then be able to place them at home or in their offices for a little greenery. Moreover, succulents are world renown for their superb aesthetic values. A terrarium is a great idea too, but they can be more costly to purchase.

If you’re looking to save costs on the glasswares, consider reusing tin cans (but please remember to wash them clean) and decorate them with ribbons, marker pens, or anything else you can think of. Your guests wouldn’t be able to guess that these were once food cans. If not, another option would also be to place them into tea-cups and personalise their initials with a marker.

For The Kids

Colouring Favour

Keep the children entertained by preparing colouring wedding favours especially for them. We know how restless kids can get after sitting for too long, so this would definitely keep them occupied during your wedding.

All-in-one For Kids

Not only do these packages include colouring pages and crayons, they also include snacks! We’re officially sold! A bonus is that the parents would also be very thankful for these to keep their child/ren intrigued and occupied.

Tattoo For You?

Be it for the kids or adults, we’re sure everyone would have a fun time putting on these tattoos to celebrate your love!

Visit La Belle Couture page to find out more about Peiru's work.

_{This post was first published on La Belle Couture blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author. Image from La Belle Couture}

Edited by Nedda Chaplin

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The post 10 (Plus 1) DIY Wedding Favour Ideas appeared first on Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals..