Pro Breastfeeding, Co-Sleeping, Cloth Diaper-ing, Babywearing type of momma

Long before I became a mom, I have already envisioned myself on what kind of parenting I am going to apply to my “soon-to-be-baby.” Nappy changes, white crib with colorful and musical toys mobile, own nursery room, giant stroller and Avent bottles (yup, this specific brand- haha! Marketing is really effective when it comes to baby stuff).  Things always do not happen the way we want it to be, and fortunately, I was equipped for things to be altered as soon as the “real baby” comes.   

Pro breastfeeding - My OB was actually the one pushed me to breastfeed my daughter. I didn’t know its long term benefits - but my main goal was to lose weight fast (they say that breastfeeding mommas tend to lose weight faster than those who do not breastfeed). Thank heaven for breastfeeding advocates and support group for they educated me with its REAL benefits. In my case, the weight loss theory is not true because even if I was able to breastfed thru bottlefeeding my daughter for 8 straight months, my pre-pregnancy weight never came back. Haha! Breastmilk can never be replaced and this is the best sustenance you can give your baby. If you’re still pregnant, I encourage you to breastfeed your child. Think about the benefits and savings too.

Co - sleeping - I bought my daughter her crib before she was born; I’ve always wanted her to sleep inside a girly crib which actually looks like a Princess Tent. My daughter hated it the first time we tried to let her sleep on her crib. And since my daughter’s so clingy, our crib has served its purpose - a giant toy box ala playpen. 

Milly and Princess playtime haha.

A video posted by @kc_alcantara on Mar 20, 2015 at 11:07pm PDT

The first night we co-slept ♥♥♥

We’ve been co-sleeping for 9 straight months already. I used to be so malikot while sleeping but I never had problems transitioning when we decided to co-sleep.  

To this. hahaha! 

Read more about the benefits of Co-sleeping here: http://www.naturalchild.org/jan_hunt/familybed.html

Cloth diaper-ing - I was never really convinced with the of benefits cloth diapers until I realized that my husband and I are spending so much when it comes to disposable diapers. My daughter is already teething and she’s a heavy wetter so we buy 2-3 packs of diapers per week. (Buti nalang mura ang EQ! haha) So that’s 287 pesos x 3 = 861. My daughter also started to have diaper rash which made me really worried. This compelled my husband and I to change her nappies every 2-3 hours. (So magastos talaga.)

So 2 weeks ago, I finally gave in and started trying cloth diapers.  It may look expensive because you have to shed a large amount of money to build your stash, but if you compute it, you still save a large amount of money as compared to weekly expenses of disposable diapers.

My daughter and I are both enjoying cloth diapers and I love the fact that I get to wash her “lampin” every now and then. I don’t mind the laundry at all. I am still in the process of collecting stash for my baby girl, and right now, we already have 11 cloth diapers and 7 more on its way.

While the costs of cloth diapers can vary depending on the brand, you can choose CD’s like Alva, Naughty Baby or Baby Land if you opt to save more.

Our first ever stash of Cloth Diapers! ♥ 

We’re using Alva 3.0 & Baby Land Pocket diapers.

Read more about the benefits of Cloth diapers here:

http://baby.more4kids.info/2007/02/advantage-of-cloth-diapers/

http://wellnessmama.com/3692/why-cloth-diaper/

Babywearing - Perhaps this is the reason why my daughter is so clingy. But the number 1 reason why I wear her is because I always wanted to be close to her; it has become my passion because it soothes her.  I love how it feels whenever I feel her close to me.  I wear her because she is soothed by my voice and the beat of my heart. This is my way of reminding her where she belongs, how wanted she has always been, how wanted she will remain. Long will be the years I cannot carry her, so I carry her now.  

Read more about the benefits of babywearing here:

http://www.babywearinginternational.org/what-is-babywearing/babywearing-resources/benefits-of-babywearing/

We may have different parenting styles and ways on raising our children but we always have a common ground - and that is giving  and knowing what is best for our children. 

Tula Baby Carrier

Shriek! I just received a happy mail this afternoon from CEO Emporium! If you’re an advocate of babywearing, most likely you’d be familiar with Tula Baby Carriers. I’ve always wanted to have this carrier since then and I couldn’t believe that my baby and I can use it already. Geez, I can’t explain the happiness I feel right now. Such  a perfect gift for my upcoming birthday and Mother’s day celebration J

 My husband and I discussed the benefits of buying another carrier for my baby; and after checking our budget and careful deliberation, we decided to buy a new one. It’s actually my first time to use a soft structured carrier (SSC), and I can easily compare the differences among my carriers. My daughter loves babywearing as much as I do, so I believe this is worth the investment. J

I have 2 different carriers before I got our Tula. One is the Suppori Sling which I bought from Cudsly, and the next 9 ring sling that I bought when my baby was only 2 weeks old. I’ve had a love and hate relationship with my ring sling because I’ve always had difficulties setting it up. So when I found out that Suppori doesn’t need to be tied and threaded, I was compelled to buy it. Unfortunately, my daughter doesn’t like it as much as she appreciates being in the ring sling. So the sling was left unused and the ring sling got abused. Haha! Ring sling has been my go to most especially that my daughter has been at her crankiest these days. She started teething and it’s only the ring sling and me who can pacify her.

But now that my daughter is starting to become heavier, my right shoulder and back start to get hurt while strolling at the mall.  Right there and then, I knew that I needed wanted a new carrier and own another type which is the SSC.

Like other moms, I was never familiar of Tula until I read it from Babywearing Philippines. I even told myself before that I have no plans of buying it most especially with its price tag. Yes, it may be expensive but I’m telling you, it really is worth the investment. Most mom's would recommend tula if you're looking for an SSC type of carrier. This isn't a status carrier but they highly recommend it because of its benefits and quality. Also, have you checked their designs yet? They have one of the best and unique prints. 

I got myself the little Rascals. 

Here's an action shot. I will try to share more pictures as we road test it. ♥ 

Lil Rascals

I got mine from CEO Emporium for 7,000 plus 150 pesos shipping fee. BaoBao babies also sell Tula Baby Carriers and these shops also provide installment/layaway plans. 

Tula is an ergonomic baby carrier and here are its features: 

• can be used in both front and back carries
• can be used from 15-45 pounds (toddler carrier is approved for 25-50 lbs)
• can be used from birth with the use of the revolutionary Tula Infant Insert (not included), and into toddlerhood with Tula Free to Grow Extenders (not included)
• is easy to use and comfortable
• provides an ergonomic M-position seat supporting optimal development for baby’s body
• is easy to care for and machine washable
• is made by hand from 100% Öko-Tex Standard 100 certified cotton
• is made with the highest quality Duraflex buckles available
• includes features such as dual-adjustment straps to allow for the perfect fit, additional leg-opening and shoulder padding, and a large pocket on the contouring hip belt
• includes a removable hood to support baby’s head while asleep, protect from sun
•  or wind, and allow for comfortable breastfeeding

http://www.tulababycarriers.com/collections/ergonomic-baby-carriers

If you have an extra budget, you can never go wrong with Tula. Talk about benefits and the comfort it can give you and your baby. Or, if you want to try other SSC carriers, you can also check these brands: 

Ergo (just be careful, because I've read that there are a lot of counterfeit Ergo's in the market) 

Moby Go 

Again, if you plan to wear you baby, don't forget to check these guidelines. ♥ 

http://www.schoolofbabywearing.com/Images/TICKS.pdf

http://www.babywearinginternational.org/what-is-babywearing/choosing-a-baby-carrier/

Review: Baby Comfy Nose

“BabyComfyNose is simply the most effective, best-designed nasal aspirator for babies on the market today.”

I finally got the chance to use our Baby Comfy Nose yesterday! (Not that I am happy using it, most especially that my daughter’s so fussy due to runny nose) I purchased this 3 months ago when Nose Frida was out of stock, but my daughter was already free from runny nose when I received the package.

The bulb-like nasal aspirator I bought before I gave birth didn’t work for us. My daughter hated it and would cry every time she sees me holding it. After a couple of attempts on using this bulb aspirator, I know this isn’t the best way to remove her snot. It actually triggers more mucus because my daughter keeps on crying every time I insert it on her nose. That’s why I am so thankful with this snot sucker because it can actually really suck snot. Down side is that, she also do not like it every time I use it to her, I don’t know if she’s just uncomfortable with it or she’s just irritable due to colds but at least, she feels relieve after using it. This works best if you spray salinase before sucking the mucous. Mind you, I actually enjoyed using it. haha! :D 

Baby Comfy Nose nasal aspirator uses your own suction to quickly and hygienically remove children’s nasal mucus.  Significantly more effective than bulb and battery aspirators because your natural lung suction is so much stronger.  The design of the aspirator eliminates any possibility of contact with mucus and germs.  Insert a tissue into the aspirator as a filter so there’s nothing else to buy.  The unit comes with two nose tips: standard and newborn. Medical grade soft nose tip and mouth piece.  The mesh storage pouch keeps all the pieces together in the dishwasher, then hang to dry and it’s ready for the diaper bag.  Three colors options are ideal for siblings and multiples.  BPA and phthalate-free.  https://www.babycomfycare.com/product/baby-comfy-nose-nasal-aspirator/

What I loved about BabyComfyNose is that you don’t have to buy the filters. All you need is some tissue and you’re good to go. There are also 3 available colors and 2 types of tips. (one is for newborn babies and the standard size). My 9 month old baby is still using the newborn size since she has a button nose. Haha! It’s pretty easy to use and clean too. It has its own mesh bag that you can put inside your dishwasher and just let it dry.

I got my baby comfy nose from BabyComfyNose Philippines (from Facebook). Retail price is at P750.00. Or you may text Karen (seller) at 09177083163.

PS: Fret not, no snot or mucous will go directly inside your mouth. It stays in the filter.

Here's a good instructional video that you can watch in case you plan to get your own baby comfy nose 

Jacobs Ladder Immunization Center

"Nakakabutas ng bulsa" That's what I would usually say right after Milly's immunization day. Mommies out there know how expensive vaccinations can get so its a must to allot a monthly budget for your babies vaccine. Good thing, we're almost done with my daughter's monthly immunization.

Milly's vaccine per month ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 depending on the type of "medicine" to be injected; one of the most expensive shot given to her was the Prevenar 13 Pneummococal.  I am thankful because unlike other babies, Milly doesn't get any fever after being immunized. She doesn't cry that much too; perhaps its because of her chunky thighs that help numbs the prick. Are you curious how I define chunky thighs? Look at the picture below. Haha!

Due to budget constraints, I started checking some online forums and asked how much their pedia charges per shot. I am quite shocked because what we pay is way higher as compared to others. I think its because the hospital where Milly gets her monthly shots. (Well, for all I know Perpetual Help Rizal sometimes overcharges their patients. That's why my late mom used to call it "PERAPetual" haha). One mom recommended the Jacobs Ladder immunization center and good thing they have a branch here in Las Pinas. Since their services solely focus on immunization, their rates are lower as compared to others. 

Here are some pictures I took during her immunization last Saturday. 

Curious with the stethoscope? 

Aside from the more affordable rates of shots, what I loved about this center is that the one who administers the shot is also a pedia. So it's not like a typical center wherein they'd just inject your little one. Here in Jacob's ladder the pedia will thoroughly check your baby. 

If you're from South and looking for an affordable immunization center, Jacobs Ladder is highly recommended. This is located along Alabang Zapote road beside Meralco. (Its the orange building)

Here are their rates. 

You have to make an appointment first before going there. I am not 100% sure if they accept walk ins. Don't forget to bring your baby book once you go there so they can double check the right shot they have to give your baby. 

Pump with your shirt on

Pump  with your shirt on. Yes, you read that right and that is  the tag line of Freemie. Freemie is a collection cup that you can put inside your bra and attach it directly to your electric breast pump. With freemie, moms do not have to hold the flange & bottle for milk collection. That is just so convenient! Imagine, you’d be able to multitask and even pump on the go if you have a portable breast pump. This may sound weird to moms who do not breast feed or pump milk, but believe me, this is one of the best innovations of breast milk pumping!

I’ve been dying to have my own freemie few months back when I started to exclusively pump milk for my daughter. Now that these cups are already available from Babymama.ph (this is where I purchased my breastpumps), I  am so tempted to buy it. I am a working mom and I pump milk at my station, so I know for sure that this would really benefit me. Imagine me, multitasking - blogging, working , holding the bottle and trying to cover my b@@bies from my officemates. (fret not, I cover myself with a big shawl).

Photo napped from Freemie website

So how does a freemie work? Just place the cups inside your bra, slip the tubing in each cups, then connect the other end of the tubing to your pump - and you’re good to go! Amazing! (yay for breastpumping mommies!)

Is it compatible to all breast pumps? - Freemie is compatible to most breastpumps. You can use this with Spectra, Ameda, Unimom, Medela Pump in Style and Avent. Each cup can hold up to 8 oz of breast milk.

How much will it cost me to get a freemie cup? Freemie cups are now available at babymama.ph and you can get these at 3,980 plus shipping. You can check their website for more information.

Once I get an extra budget, I’d definitely buy this. ♥

Pan De Manila: Churros

I am a big fan of Pan De Manila and this is always my go-to store every time I feel hungry here at work. Last year, they have expanded their bread line and started selling baked donuts.  I find their donuts delicious and really flavorful and of my favorite is the Choco Almond. My friend used to joke that their donuts are “trying hard” JCO because of their flavors: D  What I loved about their donuts is that they are baked not fried.

Recently, I have discovered that they added Churros on their menu. I was really excited because I’ve been craving for churros last month and got so delighted when I found out that they are already selling these. I think it would taste better if they add more sugar on it and since they are aiming for Freshly baked goodies, I am thinking that their churros were baked and not fried so let’s not expect the same crispness as compared to Churreria  La Lola’s Churros.

 They are selling their Churros and dips for only 10 pesos each! 10 pesos each! Haha! ♥ Not bad  eh.? 

Milly's skin secret

A lot of my mommy friends have been asking me what kind of baby soap I use for Milly’s skin. They’ve noticed how smooth her skin is. (I don’t think she got that from me. Hehe) Just like other babies, Milly also suffered from newborn outbreaks but the moment we changed her baby soap, the rashes had disappeared after 3 days. It was actually her pedia who recommended the soap.

Oilatum Bar Soap and Human Nature baby wash works well with Milly’s skin. The baby wash keeps her skin moisturized all day and even if I don’t apply lotion on her skin, it still feels smooth. Aside from using oilatum and HN baby wash, I make sure to apply physiogel on her face every after bath to keep it moisturized. Based on reviews, Physiogel cream is also effective in treating skin rashes.

I feel so thankful because I do not have to spend hundreds and thousands just to buy the expensive creams. I know a mom of two who needs to buy hard to find creams just to treat her daughter’s skin eczema. Good thing I was able to discover what works well on my daughter’s skin. 

 This was the picture wherein lots of moms asked me what I use to bathe Milly ♥ 

How about you? What kind of creams do you use to treat your baby's skin rashes? ♥ 

Milly's growing collection

I make bows out of grosgrain ribbons but these turbands and pillow bows are just irresistible! I can’t help myself from buying these accessories for Milly.

A lot of moms are asking where I purchased these lovely turbands. Check out biscuitskids Instagram page and you’ll surely drool over her designs. I love all of her designs and I make sure to check her page every now and then if she has new uploads. Good thing Andie’s husband is my officemate so I do not have to pay for the shipping fee.

Price range of turbands: 150 - 200 (depends on the design)

Aside from Biscuitkids turbands, I am also going gaga over Fayerytrinkets Pillow bows. Her fabrics are so gorgeous most especially the vintage prints. I was supposed to order from her for Milly’s baptism but unfortunately last December, she had cut off dates for processing of orders. Thank you to Zalora Marketplace for making it possible because I am able to order my dream pillow bows from Fayerytrinkets.  (dream talaga!) J She has an ongoing promo and shipping fee is free until February 15! So grab yours now.

Price range of pillow bows: 120 - 200 (depends on the type of fabric and size)

http://marketplace.zalora.com.ph/fayery-trinkets

My trusted Instagram Online Shops

Yesterday, I saw an article from rappler distinguishing a fake and a real deposit slip. Buying online can really be scary most especially if the price is too good to be true. I am a fan of online shopping because I do not have the leisure to go to the mall. Fortunately, I haven’t encountered any scammers because before buying, I always  check if the online shop is pretty legit. One way to check if an online shop is legit is thru previous transactions and feedback from their past customers. However, you still need to take note that online scammers can easily grab photos so you still need to scrutinize their online account. You can also check their networks and see if their account really exists. If you’re a fan of online shopping on Instagram, you’d notice that most sellers know each other. Checking the photo comments is also a good way to check if they are legit. ☻ 

If you’re a fan of online shopping for your kids, here are some of the reputable and highly recommended online shops I’ve transacted with. Most of these shops sell pre loved clothes for little girls. You may want to check them out on Instagram. You may click their instagram names below to check their online shops. 

To all of my mommy friends, this is actually a top secret. I actually do not want to divulge where I buy most of Milly's clothes (haha, medyo selfish kasi ako at baka maunahan nyo ako sa pagbili) but these online shops are meant to be shared! ♥ 

* Fayerytrinkets - sells handmade pillow bows.

* Biscuitskids - handmade turbands

* Momandbabyshop - sells affordable RTW and mini mel replica

* Pambatang_kagamitan - baby food from US (she sells the most affordable Gerber Puffs and other baby foods)

* Yzie_closet - one of the best sellers of preloved clothes for baby girls.

* Moonchildphl - sells handmade clothes, turbands and so much more. If you’re a fan of indie and alternative music, you should check out this store

* Mimaicollections - sells preloved and RTW clothes. Her prices are so affordable. Imagine, a top as low as 30 pesos. ♥

Cuieceahcloset  - sells preloved and RTW clothes

* Soleils_closet - Just like Yzie’s closet, this online shop sells branded clothes at a very affordable price

* Lovedbyblair - sells branded preloved clothes too ♥ PS: Her daughter is so pretty!

* MonogramsMNL - unlike the other shops posted above, this shop sells bracelets and baby name arts and other printable materials.

* Littleangelstuffco & toystorebyposhup - sells brand new baby items (Carters, Fisher Price, Lamaze, Disney, etc)

* bubbastash - sells pre-loved clothes for lil boys and girls 

* Maiciesbowshop - sells handmade headband

* Babysteeckies & Littlecreatureshop - sells customized onesies

* Pippascollection - sells branded preloved clothes. Way too affordable preloved clothes

* Mommybabymorena - sells kimonos (mommy and baby terno)

* Mothernurture_main, momsbasket, mommybakesph - sells lactation goodies

* Poshbabyph - sells brand new baby clothes

* Stashbyliz - sells brand new overruns clothes for girls

* Mommie_ni_patchot - sells preloved clothes and handmade turbands

* Pamperedbabies - sells branded preloved clothes

* Mynesliltots - branded preloved and brand new clothes

* Nizzastrends , rileyrayeish_mustloved - RTW clothes

* Cheappymnl - arts and crafts items

So far these are the list of online shops I have transacted with for the past months. ☻ Looking forward to transact with these two online shops too. Applesandpopcorns (Mini Melissa)  and Babyclothesonline (soon, baby, soon!) ♥

 I know how challenging and demanding it is to maintain this kind of business most especially there are a lot of competitors. Most of these online sellers are full time moms so big kudos to all of you! ♥ 

Lactation cookies from Mom's Basket

Last week, I was one of the lucky few participants who won a 1-week supply of lactation cookies from Mom's Basket. I've been dying to taste her red velvet cookies and was supposed to try her goodies a couple of weeks ago. But since she had a contest posted on facebook, I decided my luck to join her giveaway raffle before buying :D. All you need to do is to describe your mom or share a lil bit of story about her. Luckily, mommy Dea (owner of Mom's basket) was kind enough and decided to give all the participants lactation goodies. I feel so blessed because just when my milk had started to dwindle, mommy Dea came to my rescue! ♥ 

This isn't actually the first time I tried some lactation goodies. Few weeks after I gave birth, I've also tried other galactagogues from Mommy Bakes Ph. Her revel bars and banana muffin bites are to die for. I had overflowing milk supply that time because I'd munch 2-3 lactation bars in one seating. :) 

Here's the entry that I shared on Mom's Basket raffle: 

My mom, my one only mom. She's supposed to turn 62 this year but God sent her angels so He can finally take care of her. 

My mom died 4 months before I gave birth to a healthy beautiful baby girl. My mom was very excited to see her precious apo and I can still remember that she would always rub my tummy and talk to her apo before I went to work.

A part of me almost died when God took her away from me; but since I know from the start that she wants what is best for my baby, I learned to keep still and stay strong during her wake so my pregnancy wouldn't be affected. 

Everytime I look at my daughter, I would always say "what if naabutan ka ng lola mo? Siguro mas hahaba pa ang buhay nya, for sure proud na proud sya" She should have been a great grandma. I know God has his own reasons why she took her away from us. 

My mother may have left us already but I know deep in my heart that she's always guiding us. She's my baby's angel. She will always be the best mother and the best lola of my daughter. Without her teachings & advices, I wouldn't be able to apply it to motherhood. I wouldn't be a great mom if not for her. She taught me the best life hacks. She is beyond perfection (its because she's a perfectionist 😅 and the best mom for me) 

You are all blessed because your moms are still alive. You can see her happy face every time she sees her apos. So be thankful and cherish every moment. 

Life is too short. Mind you, I never understood the depth of her love for me until I had my daughter. 

(i opted not to post her picture); but here is her beautiful apo.  (Miilly's picture) 

She was supposed to send me my lactation cookies yesterday but since the other winner haven't sent her address, Dea decided to ship my cookies first. Again, thank you mommy Dea for being a blessing to breastfeeding moms and to an exclusively pumping mommy like me! ♥ 

Interested with Mom's basket lactation goodies? You can get them at: https://www.facebook.com/momsbasket

I think she has the most affordable lactation cookies, and if you're wondering if its effective - it's 100% effective for me. ♥ My supply went down from 10oz to 4oz *(both breasts) when Milly turned 6 months but after eating her cookies for 3 days, my supply went back to 10-12oz per session. 

Milly's 7th month celebration

Last February 6, we celebrated Milly's 7 month. As a part of our monthly celebration, we cooked pansit, lumpia, and fruit salad. We also ordered 7 pieces of luscious red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting and chicken sisig. We got the uber yummy cupcakes from Grams and Liters. Check them out as their cupcakes are really delicious. They deliver right at your doorstep with a minimum fee. You can find them on Facebook, or Instagram: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GramsandLitersPH
Instagram: gramsandlitersph

For the past 7 months, Milly have shown a lot of milestones already. I couldn't believe that she is growing real fast and is no longer a newborn baby. I miss the days when  she was so "behaved"! She's getting prettier everyday ♥ I couldn't believe that my husband and I have a good combination though. he he he. 

So far, here are her milestones few days before she turned 7 months. 

-Can sit without support
-Can stand with support
-Can crawl real fast
-Can drink 6oz of milk in one seating
-Recognizes her favorite cartoon characters (Elmo and Baby Einstein puppets) 
-Loves eating pureed veggies and fruits

Milly doesn't appreciate Hello Kitty so I need to revamp her collection and buy some Elmo and Baby Einstein stuff for her. 

Milly's Christening

Ola, mommies! Belated Happy New Year! ☻ I’ve been very busy lately that’s why I’ve been MIA and haven’t posted some updates regarding my motherhood, but this time I.REALLY.PROMISE and would make sure to update my blog every now and then regarding my mommyhood journey.

Last week, January 11 - we celebrated Milly’s baptism. Everyone enjoyed the baptismal party we have prepared for our special friends and family members and Milly was showered with so many gifts from her ninong’s and ninang’s. I was very proud too of Milly because she cooperated all throughout the ceremony and reception. She was awake the whole time and only cried when she was already hungry.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE GIFTS! ♥ 

Here’s a rundown of our suppliers and a little bit of story why we ended up booking them.

Church: Shrine of Jesus the way the truth and the life (near SM Mall of Asia)

Chaching: 2,500 solo baptism only  (1oo pesos per ninong/ninang)

-          If you’ve been searching on the Internet about baptismal requirements, you may notice that most churches are now requiring a permit if you would like to have your child baptize outside your parish church. Las Pinas is part of that decree and our parish church do not give permits to local residents. Holding the ceremony in Las Pinas is okay with me, but since most of our relatives and friends live in North, I opted to find another church that does not require a permit and hold the ceremony halfway. Thanks to Smart parenting website, because it led me to Shrine of Jesus. Based on their website, the church only requires a copy of the marriage certificate and copy of baptismal certificate. So Mark and I called the church to check if our preferred date is still available but to my surprise all slots have been taken. Reservations for this church should be made at least 1-2 months before your preferred date.

-          So Mark and I went there to book January 11, 930AM. Little did we know that the church have updated its requirements and they are NOW ASKING for a permit. (so Mommies and daddies, please prepare for a permit before going there) However, do take note that they are accepting pencil booking which is only good for 5 days. Pencil booking cannot be done over the phone. Upon paying the baptismal fee, all requirements MUST be complete. If you're curious how we got the permit, we asked it from Bulacan, where my husband used to stay. hehe. 

The ceremony was very solemn and it started at exactly 9:30. Part of their regulation is to allow only the godparents, parents and photographers inside their baptistery, but with my wits and charm I am able to ask for permission to allow all the guests to go inside. The ceremony was real fast, the priest who officiated the ceremony talked so fast too and I didn’t expect that the ceremony would only take 15 minutes. I was expecting for something more. ☻!

The church also provides missalettes, candles and the white robe. So make sure you keep all of these handy during the ceremony. 

Here are some pictures during the ceremony. We're still waiting for the actual photos from our official photographer though. Tee hee. 

Reception: Shakeys, Aseana

Chaching: 22,000

Dealing with Shakeys Aseana was such a breeze. All the details and info I gave them were followed and they were very hands on during the event. They kept on updating me with the headcount and would tell me if we need to add something on our menu. Two thumbs up with their services. If you’re looking for a budgeted place where to hold a party, you can never go wrong with Shakeys. Just make sure to provide them all the information.

Only downside was that the host pronounced my daughter’s name incorrectly. LOL!

Again, pictures to be posted soon! Shakeys Aseana is the newly opened Shakeys along Bradco Avenue. Near City of Dreams and just beside Caltex.

Event Stylist: Styled by Deiz

Chaching: Rates undisclosed

Dealing with Deiz was such a breeze. I loved how she decorated the venue and all the images I’ve been picturing on my mind before the event became into reality. My baby’s baptism wouldn’t be as beautiful as it was if not with her styling. ☻ Too bad one of the guests accidentally broke her glass jars so I had to pay an additional 1,200. If you’re looking for a reputable event stylist, you can never go wrong with Deiz. I never had a chance to meet up with her before the event, all conversations and transactions were done thru FB messenger and text messages so I was quite surprised how easy she is to work with.

Photobooth: POTD Photobooth

Chaching: 3,000

I booked them the day before the event - and I couldn’t thank them enough by working on all my requests. The only downside on their packages is that the timer is too long. Per frame is 15 seconds and I hope there’s an option if the client would like to change the number of seconds. There were 4 frames on our layout so that would be a total of 1 minute per photo booth session. Less time, meaning more people to enjoy the photobooth.

Invitations: Monograms Manila (MonogramsMNL)

Chaching: Rates undisclosed

Anne, the brainchild of MonogramsMNL is one of the most talented people I know. She can create a layout in just a few minutes and can do whatever theme you want. I am thankful because I got her services for Milly’s invitations, because aside from the numerous revisions I have requested from her (the date, the time, the venue and so much more) she printed out so many invitations, so I was able to give invitations to all of my friends. I only ordered 25 pieces but I think she printed 50-60 pieces. Haha! Well, aside from the invitations, she even gave me a free “donya” necklace which I wore during Milly’s baptism. So if you’re looking for someone who can create layouts, let Anne do the work.

Instagram: monogramsmnl  or www.instagram.com/monogramsmnl

She’s on facebook too, just search Monograms Manila

Photographer: KK Shots

Chaching: published rate is 4,500

They’re one of the best freelancers out there. Kevin has an eye for every detail and can really see through the lens. Mind you, he’s even better than the photographer we ve hired during our wedding. Hihi! (hush) I’ve booked them because they are my officemates and I know how well they take pictures. As of this writing, I am still waiting for the official photos, but here’s a snap shot of our family sesh during Milly’s baptism.

Baptismal Dress: Little Blessings

Chaching: 499 pesos

I actually had a difficult time looking for the perfect dress for Milly. Milly is a chunky baby so buying online was really not an option. I actually bought 2 dresses for her thru Instagram, but she wasn’t to use it. I got her 1 tutu dress (bought for 700 pesos) and a pink shabby dress for 350 pesos. I sold the tutu dress at a very cheap price and kept the pink dress.

Good thing my husband and I saw a cute dress at SM Fairview that exactly fits her. Yun nga lang, after the event sa sobrang chunky nya, natanggal ang buttons. Hehe!

If you’re near South, you can check some overruns in SM Sucat. They sell Little Blessings at a very affordable price. The long baptismal dress only costs 200pesos each; its regular price is at 1200. It’s such a good steal.

Candles, Shabby Chic Headband, Souvenirs: Labor of love

Chaching:

80 pesos for the candles

100 for the pink tulle

17 pesos for the lace

20 pesos for the shabby flower

Free for the souvenirs, because it was one of my friends who pledged for the rosary giveaways

So there! ☻ I am just happy that Milly’s first event is done. 1 done and more to go. Next preparation is for her first birthday party!