I have been getting myself ready for Serene's big day and night since a month ago. Sounds funny? Well, I am a SAHM so my clothes are largely (quite literally) functional and I have no shoes or bags. Thus, CK wanted to me to do some serious shopping and dress nicely for the occasion (for a change).
We combed ION and found a dress and a cardigan for the church wedding. I had to take Alfee with me so I bought a pair of pumps to go with the dress. CK was a little disappointed that my shoes were from Pedal Works (Thomson Plaza) but I am not too particular about brands. Besides, I was desperate. They are not too bad, right? I mean, they went pretty well with my LV bag... if you do not look too closely. Who would scrutinize my shoes anyway?
I thought I look pretty decent. Then my spirits were dampened when I arrived at the wrong church. I panicked as we were already late and I could not get any cab. By the time I reached the church, it was 11.45am. We had missed the march in. Still, I managed to have quite a nice time gathering with my old friends.
The rest of the day was better. I checked again and took a picture of the wedding invitation just to make sure I would not go to the wrong venue again. I also hitched a ride from Lian Sim at Bishan, so I was safe.
I also managed to buy a red dress for the dinner. Again, I had to comb heartland malls for a nice, affordable bag and shoes. I bought myself this Guess bag at BHG (Bishan Junction 8). I hated the service (or lack of it) there but I was very very desperate. Still, I emailed CK a picture of the bag for approval. I could almost sense his eyeballs roll skyhigh, but I bought it anyway. Hey, it was affordable!
The shoes were from Charles & Keith (Serangoon Nex) and I bought them while waiting for Sophie to finish her ballet class. They were super high according to my current standards. But honestly, I cannot find anything else that look decent enough, not in my size. Sophie was absolutely delighted to wear my new heels and walk around in them.
At 5.30pm, Betty, my make-up artist and hairstylist arrived. I must admit that I was hoping for a "wow" but she was just alright in her skills. Her strength is obviously on make-up, not hairstyling. I had to point out several problems with her make-up but overall, she was still okay. I am a wee bit more critical maybe because I have a professional make-up diploma even though I do not actively use it.
In any case, the dinner was wonderful. The food was surprising good and not quite the usual stuff you get from wedding dinner. I am sure Serene made sure it was different, knowing how particular she is with food. Her gown were beautiful as well. She looked so radiant and stunning despite her fatigue and stress.
We did not take many pictures. I am relying on her professional photographer, Mabel Lee (mine as well back in 2005), for some good shots. We knew Serene when she went into contract teaching in NCPS. She was very young, barely out of her teens. I still remember how she came to school in traditional costume on the first day and got chided by our principal then. After that, we included her in our "circle" and became good colleagues and friends. Now, she is all grown up and married. We are all so happy for her.
