Hannah's Heaven - Singapore and Bali Wedding Planner

Every talent is a gift...

2012-01-26T16:58:00.005+08:00

Jan passes by so fast, and I decided to give myself and team a longer CNY break from 23-26 Jan. Time flies, before we knew, we have to begin our work tomorrow.. Somehow the beginning of a year always serve as a good reflection of past year growth, as well as setting milestones for the coming future.

Early this year, I have just discovered an ex-staff of mine has started her own event cum wedding planner company for a while, initially there were mixed feelings and emotions within me. She was one whom I have high hopes on and invested much, and one whom I believe we could grow the company with... but everything happens for a reason...

A friend of mine who is in the same business used to asked me, "Hannah, how do you manage your gals, aren't you afraid they will ever steal your trades or duplicate the business models for themselves??". My answer then was simple : People will come and go, if I have called this company Heaven's Gift, it must be a gift from God to me, and to the people that have come in contact with, esp the employees. Everyone He brings in has a role and purpose for the establishment of the company, as well as for the purpose of fulfillment for his or her life"

Truly, during this period, my words are tested. Yes, it is painful and disappointing to let my gals go for any reason. Having now being as an entrepreneur for last 8 years, I have also discovered, I am given with a vision of what Heaven's Gift will be , and my role is to be a faithful steward who will run with the vision set for me without regrets and fears, and God will always provide me the right resources for the right time. Now I looked back, I still believe strongly each talent is a gift from God, every staff was given for an assigned role. And my team has made a difference in what Heaven's Gift is today, and most of all, a difference in who Hannah is today as well.

Yes, it took me a while (few weeks) to ponder whether to upload this posting. I decided if I am a true blogger to share my life as a dreamer and an entrepreneur, I have to be transparent about my journey growing a business. Every blog is a true expression of the real Hannah within. A company is organic, change is inevitable. But one thing I am sure, the people I have trained will always be a part of Heaven's Gift, no matter where they will eventually venture to. The company has made an impact in who they are today, and will continue to be. My passion is to keep believing in new talents, keep training and investing, keep trusting and growing till the day the Lord asks me to stop and redirect me to another path or journey. To God be all glory.

2011 - A year of amazing couples with awesome creations....

2012-01-08T23:21:00.010+08:00

Just finished the first wedding of the new year, and I am really happy... a couple that allowed me to see generosity in another level... What a motivation for 2012.

I can't help to reflect back the happenings in last 12 months in 2011... the year started a bit shaky, and I was not ready for it, as much as the Lord then has prompted me that He would open new opportunities and new horizons. When I heard Him then, I wondered how would it all happen, as I have had no single wedding projects/events under my category for 2011 when we were still in February. And the moment I learnt to trust and surrender, and before I knew, the projects came in so quickly thru unexpected openings, and next we knew, we on a amazing journey where we grew much in the last one year...

These are some of the projects that have created a new wave for my team. Thank you God for giving me these couples who believe in us, and allow us to create the experiences that are one of a kind for them... 2011 is truly a year of empowerment... and 2012 will be a year of His governance, goodness and greatness.

(The following pix are taken by a few great partners of mine i.e. Eadwine from Plush Photography, Eng Hong & Aloysius from 39 East, Kelvin from Lighted Pixels, Wansheng from Feldberyl, and me trying to take some shots ... you may have guessed which ones are those ;)

We are fortunate to have met so many beautiful people

2011-10-16T00:13:00.007+08:00

It has been an hectic year, and yet I enjoy every minute of it. Frequent travelling does make me lose touch sometimes of the life in Singapore, and yet in the midst of the busyness, I am so grateful God has allowed me to meet so many beautiful couples. The last 3 months have been an enjoyable time for me, I have discovered some of the most loving, most interesting and most generous and sentimental people I have ever met.

I have just finished one wedding at Capella as well as St Regis. The one at St Regis was a huge setup with 16 hours of turn around transformation. I only slept for 1.5hrs from 12.00am to 1.30am, and managed to catch

another morning nap from 5.30am to 7.00am.. Yes, after the event I was really exhausted, wiped out. But I would never forget this lovely wedding. One couple that makes me want to fall in love again and again. The groom was formally working in events management and an ex- producer. Despite that, he was filled with graciousness when he discussed the wedding plan with me. One that consistently exudes charm, sincerity and generosity, and he is marrying someone who is chilled, no fuss and very sentimental. What a pair, and I will tell you, I do really love this pair. It was a night of great laughter, joyful tears, and lots of drinking and dancing. It was the best birthday gift God can ever give me. I can't wait to show you the pix soon, for now I will just show you one pix.

When I looked back, 2011 has been a great year for us. My team has grown, despite the many changes. I have also learnt to let go to have fun. I have been blessed with so many beautiful people given to us - from couples, to my faithful photographers, and to the partners I have grown over the years. Honestly, if I retire now, I am pretty ready.. I think I have achieved what I dreamt to do.. . But I believe God is preparing me for the next phase.. and I can't wait to see what He has in store for me next..

And this coming week, we will be in Bali for another great concept for a beautiful couple... the only difference for this trip is I want to go back to enjoy Bali like a tourist in the midst of planning someone's else wedding... Yeah Bali here we come again..

Discovering new cities in the midst of planning...

2011-09-12T00:10:00.011+08:00

I have never travelled so much as a planner. And in the last 3 months, the frequent travel reminded me of my past corporate career life. Yes, I miss travelling, and I can't deny as much as it is hectic, I kinda love the discovery I made in the last 3 months.

Over the past years, we are grateful to be able to get to design and plan weddings in these cities, and in each city, I often wonder what is in store for us and the learnings God will design for us to acquire.

Chennai - a place I have met good people. When I first visited the place, I was apprehensive about the skills and the capacity this city can have. And I must say the last project changed my perspective of Indians. It was a concept that required transformations of the Taj hotel facets from the entrance, to the flooring to every wall panels of the banquet area, including all the furnishings. Yes, it was a transformation that required precision. We met a bride who knows what she wants, and we are so privileged to see our skills been stretched and utilised to the fullest to create the final look. All the precised drawings from us to the

installation delivered by the contractors were unbelievable. The final lightings and the intricate details were the final amazement. And it was a project when my team understood work enjoyment in the midst of stress and pressure.Whenever I looked back, I thank God for the opportunity, it is a project that has brought us to another level of growth. A pity we can't display any picture, but the learnings alone is treasured most.

Bali - I love this island, and I would never stop visiting this place. It is a place filled with beautiful people who loves to serve. Whenever I step into this place, I learn to be chilled, relax and enjoy every moment interacting with the locals here. Looking back from 2007, we may not have planned as many weddings in Bali as in Singapore, but each one is an amazing opportunity to stretch our faith. Delivering the tiered wedding cake down on bumpy road to the villas built on cliff, constructing first ever floating stage and dancefloor on pool in Atas Ombak in the midst of storms during Nyepi, walking down to the altar in the midst of flowers and on waters... yes, crazy concept and constructions, but I love it... just love it. I think my job strengthens my faith. The impossible is perfected in our weakness. Often in every Bali weddings, my couples would ask me : Hannah, what if it rains? And then you would see me looking at the sky and said : Almighty Father, once again, demonstrate Your power... and He never fails once.

Tianjin - It has been 7 years since I last visited China. I was there not for a wedding, but to shoot a story. China has advanced so much, both in works as

well as the attributes of their people there. I met one of the nicest people from Tianjin, well mannered, poised and skilled. I remembered years back in my corporate life, my VP wanted to send me to China to work, and I was apprehensive.. today, I can't wait to do one wedding here.. Time has truly changed. I believe in due time, China will take over many. My prayer for this nation is : May they always remember the One that has made a way for them...

Penang - my new found love. I never thought that I would fall in love with Penang, it has been almost 20 years since I last visited Penang. And a quaint city, a city of great people. I love the food, the people, the friendliness, the historical influence of the Peranakan, the British, the French and the Europeans then..

Amazing architectures, and beautiful people. I love the taxi drivers, we met some of the most friendly and comical people who have given us a glance of the people living here. This may be my next Bali, a place I can imagine retiring, and I believe my family will love this place.

Cheju - Strangely I have come to Cheju twice before this recent trip. But I did not have any recollection how it looked like, and esp not the way the Koreans have described this place to be - Serene, beautiful and cherished etc.. It was always

a touch and go visit for me then. The only thing I remembered then was I love the children here when I was teaching them in one of the church camps, they were bubbly, adorable and eager to learn. This time, I grow to love Cheju or rather the new Jeju (they have just changed their name to Jeju 2 years ago). I love the Korean cuisine, local or fine, they are comfort food for me. When I saw the view from the hotels built on cliff overlooking the beaches, I understood why the Koreans love this place - the place of retreat. It was difficult to communicate with the locals due to the language barriers, but there is a sense of trust and willingness I saw in the Koreans. The most amazing things about the Koreans is their cosmetics industry and the K-Pop Cultures. I learnt so much about skincare from them. The way the Koreans has created their own unique cultures that have impacted the world intrigues me.

When I looked back of the places the Lord has opened doors for us from Tokyo, to Bali, to Seychelles, to Chennai, next to Penang & Cheju.. I concluded has it not been Him and His grace and provisions, it would be impossible for us to ever imagine to do what we are called to do. We always look for familiar grounds, but He has opened the unfamiliar ones and brought us to experience the familiarities.. God is awesome, and we are truly blessed.

Yes, 2011 and 2012 is exciting... A year ago, my prayer was - Lord expand my horizons and open the way beyond Singapore, uttering a prayer not knowing what He will lead me to. And a year later, I stand amazed at His provision. He is the lover of my soul, in the midst of me dreaming, He has already pathed the way. Thank you Daddy God... yes, we are blessed...

The Hillsong Experience reminded me to believe in my dream...

2011-07-17T20:33:00.008+08:00

The last 2 years, I have been to Hillsong conference, and it was always an unbelievable encounter with God, you almost felt that God has tailored this conference just to speak to you.. My first conference was in 2004, when I first started the business, the Lord spoke very clearly the vision I have for my dream and this is my fourth time visiting and enjoying it once again.

The Spirit-inspired words of the speakers, the amazing theatrical works of each night, the friendliness of the volunteers and most of all, the unity of the church is demonstrated again and again each time I gather with the rest of the world for Hillsong conference.

7 years have passed quickly for my journey in Heaven's Gift. This 7 years journey is filled with discovering passion, joys & woes, my strengths and weaknesses, but most importantly realising the graciousness of God and His goodness in my company, or rather I will say His company.. I am a mere steward of His works. Someone asked me : have you ever felt like giving up the works? Of course and for sure, esp when I met setbacks, or having to deal with difficult clients. But whenever I take the position of a third party eye looking at the business, I am grateful for what the Lord has brought me - a journey of understanding grace, favour and excellence in the Lord.

Actually now looking back, it is always interesting to be reminded how and why I started the business. It is certainly different from what many would imagine. I wanted to settle down in my homeland amidst all the travelling, and I figure if I ever get married, I need a job that can be mobile to support my hubby as well as grant me time to look after my kids.. yes wow.. I do plan ahead in an unconscious way :) My youth often asked me : Auntie Hannah, what is that one dream of yrs ??? It is so simple and yet so profound : marry a God-fearing man and serve God with him for the rest of my lives with my kids. And truthfully I really believe God has a big plan for my future family, and every steps of training till now was tailored for that vision and that one dream I have. Way in my young adult years, I literally had a picture of how my future home would be like, the office I would have created with my children, and the ministry of my husband and myself . Interestingly. I have never really written about this part of my life - it is private, sensitive and an area I constantly learn to have faith in. I have never thought I would start a wedding planning business, to me having a business takes a lot of risk, careful planning and perseverance, but I was fortunate to be mentored by all my old bosses, and you learn about vision and passion, and what drives you to do what you do. I am driven by my dream - a dream I cling on to believe , a dream God has planted in my life for Him to unfold...

This time in conference, the Lord spoke once again. Hannah, no dream is coincidence, everything was crafted with my thoughts of you. Today, God spoke again in the service. The Lord loves you, and with God, all things are possible. Yes, I believe in marriage, tho I think getting married is a miracle for a man and a woman. Imagine two different gender with different makeup, different personalities, different upbringing, different habits to be able to stay under one roof, loving and enduring each other in love, raising up children, grandchildren and at times great grandchildren.. it is a miracle of God's love. I always salute couples who have been married for at least 20 years, and recently I stood in awe of one who has married for 40 years... wow, it is a faith journey. I always feel God must have brought me through wedding planning to learn about marriage and families. I have seen a fair share of how families, couples and individuals learn the ropes of submission amidst conflicts, compromising and loving in this past 7 years. Sometimes I have to tell you : I was put off to be married, it could be very intense looking at some case studies. But often I discover love and submission, and esp these past 2 years, I witnessed some of the most beautiful people I have met who willingly give up his or her rights for their partners... to help to fan the passion and strengths of each other, and to learn to love unconditionally.. And next week, I believe I would witness such love and be blessed by another love story... yeah, Tianjin, here I come...

New wine skin is birthing forth...

2011-06-21T20:23:00.008+08:00

Can't imagine myself having the time to blog during office hours, and in reality I am doing it right now. I feel really good about it. Just finished a setup for a corporate cocktail event, and I was talking to one of my staff : Did we have everything arranged as planned, I am feeling very relaxed, or did we miss out something?? And as always, our confident Eleanor always replied : No Hannah, everything is in tact, we are ready to go..

And tomorrow will be another spectacular gala... in the same period, while we are busy with these 2 events, we decided to do our spring cleaning... sounds crazy, yes we are .. 2 days of packing into boxes, and half a day of fumigation, but within a day, we rearranged our library, our filing, our shelving again. In the midst of projects deliverables, we managed to do much housekeeping. I am so very proud of my gals. Somehow I knew they all have grown up, and they have taken ownership of their roles as planners and designers.

I looked back, for the past 1 month, I

have witnessed ourselves being chilled, steadfast in the midst of crazy project timeline and deliverables.. I thought for a while, what has happened to us, did we miss out something... Just like in Chennai, my team was so ready in every stage of the construction and transformations. Against crazy timelines, surrounded by the mass of raw materials and limited resources, we actually had a great time working with the local team, and there was a sense of inner peace which we have rediscovered in the midst of working against all odds..and today, the Lord reminded me something : You have always prayed for favour and transformation, and I am answering your prayers.Yes, the team is still the same team as in the past years.. but the heart has been renewed. As planners and designers, we know we need to be precise in perfecting the concept, but we have also discovered over the years, the works of our hands will only be perfected with the works of the Almighty. He provides us the favour, the impossibilities to do the possible. Just like He has always

provide us the perfect weather... an element I always marvel - the right time to rain, the right time to shine.. even the perfect breeze that you sometimes do not ask for.. We have learnt to work hard, as well as have fun...

Lord, thank you for everything.. let the next 2 years to be the years of empowerment beyond our imagination and beyond our asking.. Above all, to You be all glory...

Happy Spring Cleaning & Happy Father's Day!!!

2011-06-19T20:08:00.005+08:00

Yesterday was hilarious, my entire team had a dramatic office spring cleaning experience, we threw away many many past copies of wedding stationeries, old magazines and raw materials (we really have accumulated so much materials). Next we have our office fumigated literally for 4 hrs to drive away any possibility of pests... and soon we will have all our cabinets organised once again to be ready for our 8th year of operations.

As our level 2 office was fumigated, we ended up sitting at level 1 showroom on the rug & sofa to continue our work. I can't wait to finish the unloading and packing of materials, 7 years of past materials, there are so much to clean up. Yet at the same time in our cozy corner, myself and team were kinda enjoying rolling up the beads, cutting the ribbons for next week's wedding...Somehow, this whole spring cleaning is a good exercise, I looked through some of the past works and designs and saw how we have evolved. I started as a planner who loves floral arrangement and handicraft to now a company that loves concepts and enjoys designing sets. I still miss those intricate handwork, and maybe this is why we are still designing our own wedding stationery.. We have grown and evolved.. but somethings within us still have not changed - as we were chatting briefly what inspired us to be in this job, we came to a conclusion : there's a part in us just really love weddings and be a helper in weddings.. and being ladies, we still love to roll up our sleeve and do the girlish thing - sewing, tying, and packing can sometimes be therapeutic haha...

After part 1 of spring cleaning, I have a good dinner with family celebrating Father's Day.. We had Taiwanese porridge at Oasis.. munching the

good old dishes with sweet potato porridge brought back much memories - the good old times, and finally ended the night with my family for a movie - KungFu Panda 2. Pastor was right, our family and the people around us are God's sent, God's gift from Heaven. They make us who we are. No matter how different we are, how time has changed us, our family will always be God's tools to mold us, to shape us. Thank God for all our parents, and particularly today, for our fathers. Thank you all daddies out there, you help us to catch a glimpse of who our Heavenly Father is. Happy Father's Day...

Learning to laugh it off....

2011-06-15T20:44:00.005+08:00

We just got back from India, and for past 3 months, we were either flying for overseas projects every week or we were busying preparing for events , and only these 2 weeks, we managed to have some time in the office for the day to day work. In the midst of our preparation for another upcoming events, I received a nasty and uncalled email today from a publisher in Bali, being angry with us for not responding to his emailed requests to us to advertise with their magazines.

I couldn't help but went back tonight and dug up all the emails he has sent to me specifically. First email from him, our company name was spelt wrongly - Heaven's Gift suddenly became Heaven's Gate, and a lengthy email of all the praises he had for our company and what we do. Following email was an email of the magazine distribution and circulation. And before we took time to even wonder the origin of the communications linkage, the same person gave us a thrashing of what he thought of me and my faith I professed in my blog.

Words were unkind - "Sadly, the faith you passionately preach online, it seems, doesn't extend to reciprocity of simple courtesies" and " I find your methods and practices disturbing, galling, and apologetically rude. Considering everyone I've met speaks highly of you, I trust I've just encountered an aberrant side of you. I wish you nothing but the best though I would have severe reservations about referring anyone to your services." And I looked back, all we did not do was we did not respond to his sales calls. In my final email, I decided to thank him for his kind words, and simply mentioned we would not foresee any possible partnership in the coming future.

I hesitated to post this new entry, but I eventually decided I would be as real to my readers, in what I have gone through as an entrepreneur even in our normal day to day business matters. What would you have done if you were in my shoes? Imagine a publisher wanting your business, speaks highly of you in one email, then next because you have not responded promptly to his sales calls, he sent you a final email of what he thinks of you... Is this the new tactics of sales calls? Is this the way a managing director of publication will react to your potential clients ? Where has the old, sincere professional way of selling gone to?

Everyone of us works hard to sell our services or our products. Regardless how many times we do a sales call, we must always remember it is part of a sales job. I remembered when I was a sales person, I was always taught : customers are not obligated to respond to us, it is our job as sales person to keep trying and persevere to make someone believe in our products. No matter what their response is, we have no rights to scream or call them names to get their attention.

If I am not affected by this uncalled email from the publisher, I would be lying. I am affected because someone who does not know me well, has judged my faith unprofessionally. Interestingly, last night my leader was reminding me, Hannah whatever you do, people will always have something to say, be it good or bad. What is most important is you live life clear to your conscience, and honest before God. And yes, not every day is filled with happy occurrence, but every day is a day you can choose to be happy. Learn to laugh it off, the Almighty One is the best judge that will weigh all words and actions.

Entering into the 8th year....

2011-06-12T22:17:00.007+08:00

Time really flies, and half a year will soon pass, and I have just entered into the 8th year of Heaven's Gift. This morning, while I was listening to Pastor preaching, I was reminded I needed to continue to blog my journey again and serve as a reminder to myself how the Lord has been faithful in my business journey and personal walk... I have not be consistent in my blogging, shame on me...

Before I begin to blog again, I asked myself, "Hannah, why do you blog" and "what do you really want to leave for the readers to remember"... "is

blogging for them or for yourself.. ??" Finally I concluded, it is first for myself - to record the journey I have taken as an entrepreneur, a visionary and me being a woman, and at the same time, it is my short story unfold for others.. Pastor once asked me, what is the legacy you would leave for your next generation.. and my answer is : My testimony of His faithfulness in the midst of my humanity... Blogging was never meant for business publicity, hence you would realise you hardly see any inspiration boards about my wedding ideas. Instead, it is filled with my thoughts and journey I have gone through as a business woman and as an individual. And I intend to keep it that way, it is a window where the readers can begin to see the real Hannah behind all the creations.
2011 is a very special year to me, because other than the fact that Senior Pastor declared that it is a year of empowerment, I heard specifically from the Lord, that it would be a year I cross borders to create events and touch lives, and it would also be a year that He will surprise me with a gift I thought He has forgotten about providing me. Interestingly, before 2011 was dawned, I have had no idea nor seen any visible possibilities of how the above could happen. We did not have any overseas deal then, and at that time, I was somewhat tired of working so hard, and having to deal with some of my personal struggles.

6 months have passed in 2011, and looking back, God's words are pure, and every word of His is true and steadfast. In Feb 2011, I did not have any weddings from April onwards, and I assumed that maybe this was a year I could rest. And when March 2011 came to a close, we closed 5 deals, and 2 overseas project for 2011- Chennai & Bali. Chennai's experience was a straining 3 months of conceptualising and detailing, but the final outcome was a true blessing. My team has witnessed how the Lord enabled our mind to be quickened and be creative in the shortest turnaround time. The meticulous side of us was even stretched and sharpened, we have never thought we would ever detailed platings down to the cutleries and equipments used for every 60 items of food used in an event. Now looking back, I am very proud of my team, everyone is a gift from God. Everyone had a great time and experience in Chennai, a project I am now thankful...

And during this period, Penang & Cheju opportunities were opened, and I saw a new wave of new clients that came into our lives. Clients that are so loving to each other, clients that believe in our professionalism and precision, clients that have become lifelong friends after the events.

And this is the very reason I entered into weddings, and do what I do. Beyond profits and dollars, I want to be passionate to touch lives. I don't profess I could help the world, but my heart is to see life in different light, and be touched in the midst of serving others, and in return be a blessing to others. And in the midst of all my works and creations, I hope to discover the meaning of true love and steadfast faith. May this post mark a renewed expression of blogging and journalling ...

What does it mean when you rest in the Lord...

2011-04-10T06:29:00.001+08:00

I was searching for an answer, started to type the phrase "resting in the Lord" on Google search, and I was very very touched and blessed to find this from a site "inspiration for singles". My God truly knows my need...

What does it mean to 'rest in God'?

Sometimes, all you can do is rest in God.
The single life can be maddeningly frustrating at times. You can feel discouraged, lonely, and so soul-tired that you don't know what to do.That's when it's time to rest in God. It's not giving up. It's not giving in to despair. Rather, it's turning your messed up life over to God to let him fix it. He promised to do just that:
"Come to me all you who are weary and burdened,
and I will give you rest." (Mt. 11:28)
We were never meant to go it alone anyway. Jesus found that out firsthand when he became a human being. He depended heavily on his heavenly Father for support and guidance. When he was exhausted, he went off by himself to rest in God.

And just do nothing?
We're not used to handing control over to anyone else. We want to do it our way, on our timing. We don't trust other people to do things exactly the way we want them, and we have a darn hard time trusting God, either. But can you think of anyone more competent than God? Can't the all-powerful being who created the universe and who keeps it running take care of your problem? When you rest in God, you don't tell him what to do or how to do it. You take a break from your trouble. You sit on God's lap and take a nap.

Hit bottom yet?
Some of us need to hit bottom before we're willing to surrender to God's care and protection. We still have the stubborn notion that somehow we can pull it out, somehow we can salvage the situation on our own.
We're not smart enough yet to turn things over to the Professional Problem Solver. We think of God only as a last resort. Amazingly, he doesn't get offended by that. He watches us bang our head into this wall and that, looking with compassion on our foolishness. We run around like hyperactive two year-olds until we can't run any more. He knows what's coming. He knows we'll eventually crumple, exhausted, then ask him if he could help.
He doesn't even seem to mind that we've botched things so badly that they look impossible. For nothing is impossible with God. (Luke 1:37)

Can I help? Please?
Even then, we still can't keep our fingers out of it. We don't completely get what it means to rest in God. It means trusting. Surrendering. Not interfering. It means having so much faith in him that we can finally have some peace. Again, by losing our life--turning it over to him completely--we gain it. We finally get it through our thick skull that he always wants what's best for us, and no matter what happens, that's what we'll get. It may not appear so at the time, but he'll make it right. He never welches on his promises.

'Hey, this really works'
To our surprise, we're calm. Our anxiety is gone. This resting in God business means exactly that, resting. We're relaxed again. Stress-free. We have this unexplainable assurance that everything's going to turn out all right, even if it does mean a loss. He'll be with us after the loss and will take us into his rest again, anytime we want.
We could kick ourselves for not coming to him sooner. Finally, though, we're safe in the Master's hands. We've learned how to let go and rest in God.

When yr mind is transformed...

2011-04-10T06:12:00.002+08:00

I wrote a note on facebook while I was in Seattle, and today I was reading again. It once again blessed my heart, so I decided to repost it on my blog :

Transformation of mind by the Holy Spirit :
Woke up early this morning, turned on TV and Joyce Meyer was sharing : Everyday, I tell myself I am blessed, I expect the abundance of blessings from the Lord. There are many people in this world, who thinks that waiting upon God is simple passive, awaiting for blessings to just fall from Heaven, and they do nothing but wait aimlessly.. But the true waiting of the Lord is aggressive, it is believing with action that what the Lord promises will come true. It is like a pregnant lady, she prepares for the baby to be birthed, she gets her body ready, she gets the baby room ready, she doesn't expect the baby to be gone.. she expects the baby to be birthed.

Instead of saying : I don't want to wish too much, just in case my dreams never come true and I am hurt. Every Christian should be saying : I pray for my dreams to come true, and even if the dreams do not come the way I perceive, in my spirit, i know God is good, and it will still be fulfilled, in ways beyond me, and when it happens, often we look back, God actually answers our prayer, sometimes more than just according to our desire, He perfects the process of us receiving and eventually be in awe of it,

Lord, let 2011 be the year I understand this truth even in greater measures.. I know you have given me a good dream, and when people or even myself sometimes wonder have you forgotten that specific dream, I knew You have already answered that dream, and you are preparing me to receive that in full blessings without any flaws.. I am getting my ready for it.. 2011 - the transformation of the mind by the Holy Spirit. Amen.

J

After 7 years....God is still faithful.

2011-04-09T23:48:00.005+08:00

Today, we had a wedding at White Rabbit, and it was another beautiful wedding. Unlike our usual weddings, it was a design that was created with no frills, rustic white and green table centrepieces with interesting ingredients - herbs. Handmade placecards, no coloured lightings, but simply the ambience lightings from the restaurant. And when I was seated outside at the courtyard, I was reminded simplicity is truly beauty at times.. sometimes the most simple things created by God is the most beautiful things discovered.

I never felt so relaxed in a wedding, since Jas was the assigned planner for this couple, and I was here just to ensure all is as planned. Interesting it was one wedding party with many familiar faces - my old clients and friends. I have much thoughts in my mind and heart, and I will be flying again tomorrow.

The sound engineer came to me, and asked me : Hannah, how's business? Long time no see...

Honestly this year is a very special year for me. I was reminded that God will surprise me this year, with fulfillments of childhood dreams I thought He has forgotten. Our financial year ends in March, and a new financial year starts in April of each year. In Feb, I have no single deals for the new FY, my other planner has about 4 weddings, and we were wondering what has happened. My heart panicked a while, but then somehow because of what He has spoken, I was certain this year may be the

year I learn to rest in Him. We just passed March, and when I looked back unconsciously the deals I have just recently closed on my end, I realised God has blessed me with 5 weddings within a month... what can I say : After 7 years, God is still faithful.

Lord, thank you for being so faithful always... forgive me that at times, my little faith and doubts have failed to see Your wonderful blessings.. Teach me O Lord, never to doubt what You have promised.. in your time, You truly make all things beautiful.. Amen

Be Like an Eagle....

2011-03-05T00:35:00.012+08:00

This year, I finally managed to find time to attend G12 conference, for the past 2 years, I was either travelling for projects, or I have to manage weddings. The theme for this year conference was "The Power of A Dream". This is so appropriate and I don't think it was a coincidence. When I was in Seattle and Phoenix, God spoke so clearly about a childhood dream He will revive.. and He spoke 3 times while I was in States. I knew this year my dream will come to pass :) Today, I was reminded about Eagle by one of the youngest speakers in the conference. When I was a youth, I was always inspired about the life of eagles, how they grow and how they live since young. There are spiritual insights about an eagle life, and I would love to share with you.

This is a story of the Eagle’s life. Eagle has long life up to 70 years. It has patience to survive.To live till 70 years, he has to pass though a hard decision. It’s talons works properly till 30 years After 30 years, it’s talons becomes weak and they can’t grab prey. It’s long and sharp beak also becomes bent. It’s thick feathers become stuck to chest due to heavy wings and can’t fly freely. Then Eagle has left only two options: either die or pass through a painful process of the changes, which lasts 5 months.When Eagle reaches near 30, it’s beak,talon and feathers becomes weak. For new life, eagle makes one hard decision. Eagle flies on top of a mountain and sits on nest. Then Eagle strikes its beak against a rock and pull it out. After that it waits for new beak to grow. Then it starts plucking out it’s talons. New talons grow back. Then it plucks its old and thick feathers.Now the painful process completed and it has to wait for 5 month to recover. After that it can make its fly to sky and can enjoy new birth. Now it can live 40 years more.

The speaker was sharing about how we could continue to live for our dreams, and I was brought back to the memories how I started Heaven's Gift. I was a Group Manager/ Group Account Director for a company. Life in the corporate was great and I have had many travel opportunities especially in Asia in that particular 4 years. Indonesia was one country I chose to visit regularly and support my local team, though my bosses never expected me to do so, as none of my predecessors have ever gone there. When I worked, I could be very absorbed in my job. Yet one life changing incident in Indonesia changed my destiny. I was in the Marriott Hotel when the first terrorist bomb took place in Jakarta in 2003. I could still remember that day, I was having meeting at the lobby with my colleague, and we ordered lunch. Then I went up to my room to make a few calls, my colleague was calling me 3 times to chase me to come down for lunch. I hanged up his first 2 calls as I was stuck in an overseas call with another vendor , and finally I answered his third call and advised him to bring up the food to my room instead. Now, he was not a hotel guest, would not have any access to the guest room, so eventually we decided to meet in the business centre so we could print all the documents for the next client's meeting we would be heading to. Imagine me coming down from my room fr 22nd to 5th level of Marriott Jakarta, and he coming up from lobby to the 5th level - business centre. 5 min later, the building shook, guests started screaming "bomb bomb" and all we knew was we needed to run down through the fire escape and get out of the building, not knowing what had had happened. When I finally saw the devastation of the ruins and the death of so many people at level 1 in that night, my heart sank.

I realised, life is indeed unpredictable, and I asked myself : Hannah, what do you really want to do for the rest of your life...I wanted to be near home, I wanted to have a lifestyle career when I can be mobile and yet be close to my family. And somehow, wedding planning naturally came to mind, since I have helped so many of my friends in the weddings. The detailed story of how I started this business can be found in my first blog. But what I did not share was : God was the one who inspired me to start a business, and He gave me the name "Heaven's Gift". I started the business at the age of 30, I was reminded always that this company is a gift from God. It was a steep learning curve, just like the eagle who needs a rebirth, I learnt to be humble, and re-learnt the rope of doing business from a corporate world perspective to a lifestyle career understanding. It was a good 7 years of learnings and relearnings. Initially some of my pals could not agreed with my move from a director role to a wedding planner. The good remuneration and perks I used to receive, how could I forgo all.. My boss was surprised why would I gave up a job that had 25 subordinates , to be a planner who serves the bride and her entire family. But I wanted something more than a job can offer, I want to see the impossible becoming possible. I wanted to experience the extraordinary in a very ordinary life.

And now looking back, not once has God ever failed me. I saw how He has stretched, blessed me and my team, I saw how He has blessed my couples with good weather, the creativity that He inspired in us, and the actual day deployment, everything was provided timely and sometimes supernaturally beyond my imaginations.

The last 7 years I felt I went through what the eagle went through. I have removed my old beak, old talons, old feathers, to growing new beak, new talons, new feathers. And I am ready to soar another 40 years... I am excited about what God has in store for me. Heaven's Gift is renewed for a greater purpose. It began as a gift from God to me, but I believe the last 7 years has prepared us to be an organisation that He could use to bless more. I want to see more lives be touched, and more couples be blessed with our creations. To God be the glory.

One more month before a new face lift of Heaven's Gift

2011-03-03T15:33:00.004+08:00

2010 was an amazing year of creations for us. And many of our lovely couples have been asking : Hannah, when will you upload your website with new images? Yes, we have been holding back some of our updates for a while, due to project and travel schedules, and the other real reason is : we will be launching a new look on our website, in a month's time.. So look out for new "face lift" of Heaven's Gift.

Having said that, our passion and philosophy in creating your special events will always remain the same. We still strongly believe that every event is a reflection of the host, besides the planner. Every wedding we created regardless how creative and thematic it can be, it should always exude beauty and elegance, but most importantly, it should always tell Your Story..

And we look forward for more amazing stories and inspiring projects for 2011 and 2012.. Stay in touch.

The other passion of mine...other than wedding planning...

2011-02-27T23:14:00.007+08:00

Today marks the last time where my kids band get to play and worship with the children in Singapore expo.. It has been 5 years in Expo, time really flies.. and for me, it has been almost a decade since I last joined the children ministry... from sunday school teacher, to a team leader, to a worship leader. Been with the children is always so refreshing and heartwarming, they show you how sovereign God is and He can do all things through you if you believe (like the way the children will believe in God)...

Yes, I am their Auntie Hannah...

the Seniority Title I have learnt to accept and be thankful..

I always feel, if I am not a wedding planner, I don't mind being a nursery teacher... Yes, sometimes the children do drive you nuts, they challenge you to manage them, and you are humbled before God to learn to lead them, and yet at the end of the journey, you are amazed how they grow and are transformed to the very persons God want them to be..

I would never have imagined at the age of 38, I have a chance to sing, dance and be crazy with these kids. Yes, they called me Auntie Hannah, and they learn to give me the room to catch up with them, musically, physically and mentally...It is a lifetime experience I would treasure always.

My prayers for this generation will always be :

1) God, make them to be the next generation of godly leaders, who learn to seek Your voice, and stay close to Your hearts. They will be the history makers for You.

2) Teach them to always be bold to be Your voice to their generation. Always excel in what they do and believe, and be the best Artists, Doctors, Lawyers, Entrepreneurs, Politicians and many more in their generations...

3) Finally, teach them to always remember You as their creator, You are the one who put in them the talents to shine, and on the day when they attain the world platforms and achievements, they will always remember to give you back the very glory that is due You.

I can't wait to see the next generation of leaders ... and I pray I will always be a part in building this generation with the others that have pathed the way for them....

3 important steps to begin your wedding plan...

2011-02-23T23:28:00.005+08:00

Met a very nice couple last night, and I could understand the stress they might have gone through to begin their wedding plan. After all, for most couples, it is their first time planning a wedding. At the end of the meeting, when I saw the smiles of the couple, especially from the groom, I knew somehow they understood and knew how to begin the planning, and that itself brings a refreshing joy to my soul.. we have helped them addressed all their concern and worries they have had about their big day.

Now, I thought it would be good for me to share some of my thoughts I have shared with them to couples who are now planning your wedding and may have encountered the same stress level. My prayer is that you would find insights with these little tips I have concluded from my 7 yrs of experiences as a wedding planner.

1) Before you engage anyone in the industry, always start your wedding plan by forecasting your own budget or investment you would allocate for your wedding. You realise I call them "Investment"and not "Cost". To me, a wedding is a celebration where you get to invest your efforts and money to make a day you would share with your loved ones, creating memories you would desire to create and be remembered. A couple once came and told me planning a wedding is a huge waste of money, and I was very surprised to hear that. I differ from that thought. Whenever you create an occasion to celebrate with the people you love, the money spend on such occasions are never regarded as a waste of money. In fact, it is an exchange you give to create the experience you desire. Whether you are planning a birthday, a party or a wedding, you do it for yourself and for the people you love, you spend to celebrate the occasion, you lavish for the fact you want to create memories with whom you cherish. Weddings expenses would only be perceived as wastage when the money incurred are not for people you cherish or value. So be it small or large weddings, as long as you know very clearly your objective of creating an occasion i.e. to celebrate and be remembered, these expenses are never regarded as cost or wastage, they are in fact investments you incur for the people you love.

So allocate reasonable budget for each item. Do not compare your allocated budget with friends who have done their weddings some times ago. The market rates for many wedding vendors and details have changed drastically over the last 2 years. Prices have gone up, and a lot more new intricate details and efforts have been put in by vendors to make today's weddings personalised. Besides, whatever your friends had decided then for their wedding may be of different expectations/dreams compared to yours for your wedding. Every one's dream wedding is different, so understand your desired expectations, and you would manage your budget.

I thought I might as well quote an example of a good estimate of an investment for a wedding. Averagely for 300 guests weddings, even before you allocate details budget into the actual day wedding, you would have easily spent an estimate of S$70K on food & beverages plus your own bridal items such as wedding gowns, suites and accessories... By the time you add in the intricate extras to create a wedding that you can call your own (from staging, floral, lightings, entertainment, DJ, photographer, videographer, stationery etc etc), you would easily reach about S$120K and more for a wedding that is personalised. Nobody knows better the budget you are comfortable more than yourself. So decide between you and your partner, the budget you want to invest, and match them against your desired expectations. Once you know your comfortable investments you want to put in for your wedding, then you can begin your selections of the various venue, artists etc.

2) Now when selecting the vendors you desire to work with, check around their works first on their websites prior to meeting the various players. These days, the Internet is the best media for sourcing and information referencing. In fact, couples would have known much about us as vendors even before you come to visit us. A good vendor or artist should have a decent website to draw you to want to find out more about them. Their good works should be consistently showcased from the websites, to the magazines. You can even gather constructive feedback from vendors they have worked with.

Once you have determined whom you want to explore with, schedule a face to face meeting with the vendors you are keen. Nothing expresses better than a direct encounter with the people you are considering to hire. Emailed quotations alone are never the best way to determine a selection. Finally, you always choose a vendor whom you are confident of their works, and whom you have a chemistry with. I always tell my couple : whatever you do, do it with your heart. Deep within us, we know what we want, and even when everyone advises you otherwise, if your heart decides a plan, follow through with that plan. And at the end of the day, you will discover the joy of following your heart.

3) Finally, after you have determined your investment, after you have selected your desired vendors, the last step and the most important step to do as a couple is to learn to let go and learn to enjoy the planning process. I often remind my couples, planning your wedding is a "catalyst process" (if I may call it), to give both of you a glimpse on how marriage could be liked with each other. You are invited to an experience where both of you make decisions together from major milestones to very minute details. You get to understand how each other think, verbalise or even behave. I always marvel at simply watching my couples respond to each other. Often I discover, when a couple truly loves each other, the wedding planning process will be an illustration to confirm that, and even God above will support their dream. I have witnessed from so many weddings that weathers were altered by God to demonstrate to couple that He is on their side. For those of you who believe in God, let this wedding process be more than mere monetary investment, let it also be an emotional and spiritual investment where you learn to understand the dynamics of love and standing by with each other. If you can see God answering your prayers during your wedding planning stages, I can guarantee you that you will see God present in your marriage and every step in your journey as husband and wife.

My prayer is that more couples will spend the same amount of intensity in their marriage journey as they have done for their weddings.

Pray, Live and Love...

2011-02-17T00:20:00.007+08:00

It has been a while since I last blogged.. and I just have had a great dinner and catch up moments with one of my ex-client/couple. Beyond weddings, we discussed about life goals, dreams and our perceptions in life. Such time of exchange is always treasured, because often we are reminded that life is precious, and life is beyond mere possessions and achievements, it is a journey where one learns to pray, live and love.

This trip back from the US was not only fruitful, but it was enriching. I had much time left alone, reflecting the past 1 year of experiences and learnings, and coming to conclusion of what I really want in life. When one takes time to smell the rose, you really get to discover new outlook at the surroundings, the people around you, the way you even think and behave.. and everything looks different and feels refreshed when you put on a new perspective thru a new pair of lens.

Usually when I come back to the States, I have many agenda Iwant to achieve : looking at the new trends in weddings, looking out for the different vendors, browsing through all the magazines you can find, and this time, I decided to give myself a break from work, simply enjoying the country like a tourist. Instead of spending time working or shopping, I was blessed simply visiting the museums, the library, the markets, and exploring the different eateries we could find in a place. It was like what Juliet Roberts did in the movie, simply eating, praying and loving every bit of life. Hers in Bali, mine in Seattle.

So what did I discover at the end of the trip, here are my conclusive findings / statements :

When your heart is at rest, you will hear the voice from Heaven. On my first day when I woke up in Seattle, instead of experience jet lag, I stood wide awake on my bed, and the first voice I heard was the Lord - and when I wondered did He really speak, He confirmed again and again with signs that blew my minds away. God does speak, my friend...
When you decide to let go all agenda, and take moments to smell the rose, you discover that life is in fact filled with many beautiful roses, and everyone is special, everyone is awesomely created. When you are busy, you often have no time to discover the surroundings around you. This time, I paused to take time to appreciate the beauty and people around me, and I have found new friends and refreshed experiences. All of a sudden, you are convinced : life is never lonely... there are many God has created along the way to bless your heart, and in return you learn to bless others.
Finally, I was encouraged to once again reminded : love believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. There are so many who came to the States because of a love for someone, a love for their passions, a love for their dreams... Nothing could stop them from pursuing what they believe, as long as they continue to love and believe in love. I have witnessed some of the most amazing entrepreneurs who stood up for what they love, some of the most amazing couples who stood by each other... and yes, I was encouraged to love again..

Coming back home was a joy, especially coming back home to spend time with families for the Chinese New year. I was reminded I am able to do what I love to do, because I was fortunate to have my loved ones back home who are willing to release me to continue to excel in what I do.

So to all my friends and readers who continue to dream to do what we want to do : Remember - to be able to do what you love, you have to know you are loved. And there is One from Heaven, who loves us all beyond our imaginations.

2011 - The year of the Holy Spirit : New Creations, New Territories, New Breakthroughs....and I believe a new found Love..

2011-01-10T14:15:00.007+08:00

3 Christmas Parties, 2 weddings in 2 weeks, and now preparing myself to leave for States....

Today is my off day, and often off days are days I go about running errands, catching up with some vendors (yup it's my moment of spending time with the partners I have grown to love and embrace) but today, I decided to stay at home and write. How cool....

Looking back 2010, I am amazed at what I have learnt... much in fact. The first half of year, I discovered more about myself, what drives me and makes me happy... and the second half of the year, I learnt to deal with rumours, gossip about me, endured and moving forward in the midst of people watching me.. at the end of the year, I realised every stage in 2o10 existed to prepare me for greater 2011.

When Pastor shared that he felt 2011 is the year of the Holy Spirit, I smiled in my heart, yes Lord, it is.. and I am ready for the plunge. In the last 6 months of 2010, I have had made some fundamental decisions about myself, my choices, and my business... that I know it is for something good, and I have yet to see. Honestly I have no idea what 2011 will entail but I do know it will be an amazing year beyond what my mind can comprehend, because I somehow look forward for 2012. This will be the year where I will see our team crossing borders, and doing more weddings overseas, and creating events with talented vendors all over the world. How do we do that? Remember, it is the year of the Holy Spirit...

I just seen some of the pictures from one of the weddings we did in Nov, and I love it. A couple whom I was first unsure whether they could trust us, whether they understood what we do.. but a couple I have grown to love and adore, one who eventually took the plunge to believe in us, and leave it to us to do what we think is best for them, and the result - it was an enchanted night, with charming people.. today, Aili becomes a dear pal, who never stop to be there to standby us, she in Hong Kong, and we in Singapore. That's the irony of life, you get to discover people the Lord brings, and even when you were unsure, eventually as you be willing to move on, and trust the Lord, He brings you a final pleasant surprise.

So look out for us in 2011, it will be a renewed Heaven's Gift for you...

Creations that birthed out of emotions...

2010-11-14T12:31:00.021+08:00

Last week, I finally got the time to take a look at the pictures of our recent works. Those pix brought back memories. The second part of 2010 was the most trying part of the year for me. A lot of mixed emotions as I went about doing the day to day business. It was the same emotions I went through when my granny passed on.. and yet the Lord has been gracious, I have never made so many fundamental life and business decisions in a short span of 4 months. I knew He stretched me, I understood it was another leap of faith I need to take in every decision. Now looking back, every decision seemingly seem rush, yet every decision He has carefully planned for me.. I stand in wonder.

Blogging is always to me a reflection, and not so much about publicity... It is my way of therapeutic expressions, and I know esp when my youths in church are always reading.. somehow it was also my way of educating the next generation how to treasure passion and inculcate perseverance and faith in the midst of pursuing our passions. I hope you are blessed to see the works that are birthed out of pain as well as much love. To God, be the glory...

Life is beautiful...

2010-10-12T23:28:00.005+08:00

Birthdays always mean somethings to your heart, as much as you don't want to admit it. And every year, as I approach my birthday, I can't help to wonder what will take place on the actual day. This year, the same thoughts lingered in my mind.

6th Oct is a date I do treasure.. The number 6 is always special to my heart. Some say it is a number of the serpent, some say it is a number of man.. I will choose to believe the latter. It is a number that speaks of man's weakness made perfect in God's likeness..

Last Wed, my children Pastor celebrated with me over a simple but intimate lunch. We have a good one in Royal Copenhagen in Taka.. and I spent some time alone in my spa manicure, and taking down thoughts over the past year, esp the past months' occurrence.. The joy of good memories made me drop a sms of my reflections to a dear pal of mine, and unknowingly, my pal misread my intention and a happy sms turned into a disappointed note.. before I could even wonder, came another call from another pal, that she had confirmed breast cancer... it was a birthday seemingly filled with disappointing news.. and a part of my heart was really down, and while I was driving around in my loss... somehow God quicken my spirit and reminded me, Hannah you have a choice - to have faith and pray through for yourself and your pals, or you can choose to mourn over yours and your friend's current situations.. Life is full of choices, and what you choose to believe determines the very destiny in your life.

On that day, I chose to pray, to praise and to rejoice. I attended the church prayer meeting and rushed to the hospital later to encourage my pal. I went back home decided I choose to forgive, I choose to let go, I choose joy over sadness, I choose love over hatred. I choose God over self.

Last night I watched the movie : Eat, Pray & Love.. and I was inspired. Two things I came back refreshed. The author help me to realise 2 truths :

- Ruin is not always disastrous, sometimes it is a gift. It leads the road to transformations

- Sometimes to lose balance in love, is to find balance in life. When you thought that loving someone causes you to lose yrself, to lose your balance. Unknowingly it is the beginning of finding the real meaning of balance in life - i.e. to let go, to trust God, and eventually trusting yourself.

Today, I found a new strength, a new freedom and energy. I received a call from my pal : her cancer is controlled, and there's no signs of cancer spreading to any part of her body, the scan reported. I made a call, and was happy to know there are new openings and new business opportunities. But most important, I received a prompting in my heart : God is in control, Hannah, it's time to let go of the past, to explore the unknown future and wonders together with Him. This is life - it is filled with journeys of the unexpected, the discovery of life in many expressions.. so we can continue to eat, pray and love. Life is beautiful, I love life, and I want to live the best of every moments.

The wedding of the year in Seychelles

2010-09-25T02:33:00.006+08:00

I just arrived at the hotel, checked in, and received a message that the Tatler magazine is out and Eng Hong, our photographer partner has posted our wedding on the blog. Our Seychelles wedding was featured.. and I just can't sleep despite I was very very tired... I logged onto 39east blog and joy filled my soul.. it was an article that was written with exact accuracy to what happened in the wedding. All the hard work from my team, the precised drawings right to the exact measurements of the trellis (400sqm large area to cover), the exact colour coordinations of the lanterns at each row within the huge trellis, the beautiful and intricate floral arrangements done by Harijanto from Boenga, the long hours of coordinations and supervision by my team from the first moment we touched ground to the 4th day when the event took place all paid off... See the link at 39 East images

God, you did it again thru us and for us.. I thank You for the great weather and the perseverance you have instill in me and every one who makes this work... it is another Heaven's Gift from You...I know greater things You will do thru us and for us.. I love you Daddy, the lover of my soul.

My heart may not understand, but God knows what's best for me...

2010-09-23T00:53:00.003+08:00

I will be flying off in 6 hours' time.. and yet my mind is fully awake, I just could not sleep.. somehow my mind is back to the active mode again, and I know it is an indication that God is preparing me for something which my mind cannot comprehend... something I require faith to venture into.

These past few months has been a trying time for me... nobody really knows nor understands what went through my heart and mind, but I know I need to press on, and believe all things happened for a purpose beyond my limited human mind.. and I know God is preparing me for something I have yet to understand nor even envision. It is so strange, the verse "Faith is the substance hope for, the evidence not seen", just kept ringing in my spirit.

Just as I am writing my thots in this blog, a small little voice speaks :

- Hann, trust God, He knows what He is doing, the journey ahead may seem uncertain, but it is a sure step to fulfill His promises in you and thru you, and He will fulfill the very dreams you have had for long

- Hann, stop listening to all the lies around you, it's time to shake off those dust and spread your wings and mount up your wings like eagles, it's time to soar above the distractions that try to hold you back..

- Hann, rest in the Lord, the battle belongs to the Lord, what the enemy meant it for evil, He will turn it for good for His name's sake..

Yes Lord, 7 yrs ago, I have the same fear but You have shown yourself faithful these 7 years.. and I know you will perfect what You have begun in us...

The Lord knows what we need to carry on....

2010-09-14T21:53:00.013+08:00

I have just finished a long call with a client's brother, who was questioning about some final details pricing with us, and I have had just finished a wedding with extensive setup last week, and now in the process of creating another big one I have dreamt about and can't wait to see the final expression for this coming week. And during that conversation, I was discouraged, because it was the same educational journey we need to go through with most clients, the questioning of our works and what it worths. And the past 2 weeks, I have not slept much and my team have not stopped working. Mentally, emotionally and physically I am tired. I don 't blame anyone, I have learnt to accept it is a process we have to do to

justify what we do.

And interestingly, when my soul was disheartened, I received an email from the parents of my couple from last Sat's wedding -Mr Richard Magnus and Mrs Eileen Magnus who surprised me with their thank you notes, and when I read it, my heart was lifted up, the Lord knows what we need to carry on... and I tear as I write this blog, Lord, you are the best hubby I can ever dreamt to have.

"Hi Hannah,

As part of our reflections and thanking God for His blessings on Step/Daniel's wedding we thank the Lord too for you.

We have many expectations. You delivered them all. The spatial ambience was magical, creative and imaginative. The placing of the lights in the Flutes walkway, the careful shadows on the trees as well as on the trellis which was sensitively decorated brought the right sparkle. The symbolic swing, stef's and daniel's theme, hanging naturally from the tree was a masterful touch, a touch that made the leap to genius. The foundational church event, the reception which was the social needed transition between the church event and dinner, and the dinner itself was carried out flawlessly. The solemnisation was well choreographed and executed with the processional. Solemnity was respected as vows were made, and ordinary rings become wedding rings, communion celebrated, exhortations made, blessings released and declarations of a marriage made. The tea ceremony took place meaningfully and sensitively. There was a relaxed mood at the reception. The buzz flowed with champagne. wine and canapes from Flutes. The atmosphere at the dinner was purposefully understated yet dignified and joyous. Nothing ostentatious. The marquee earned its reputation in the midst of the lush greenery. The dinner hall was ambient cool throughout which was a pleasant surprise. The music was of years gone by was discreet. Flutes cuisine was savour extraordinaire. The service was impeccable. The wine flowed to the occasion. The guests enjoyed themselves. There was an overflowing of fellowship and friendship. The dance floor was invitingly adequate and came to life with the evening. The MC was great. The speeches were brief. The tribute demonstrated love. The celebration seemed endless.

It was like a symphony orchestra that came alive in the hands of an expert conductor. It was our blessings that we had you as the conductor. Several of our friends had said it was an exceptional event and many still talked about it.

Well done Hannah. Thank you. You made an extraordinary event memorable and magical."

Blessings

Richard Magnus

"Hi Hannah, we continue to receive compliments from many of guests about how wonderful Stephanie and Daniel's wedding was and how much they enjoyed themselves. Many called it a wedding with a difference and left with a warm feeling.

The entire setup wowed our guests, and the garden was transformed. Thank you for the lovely touches you put in and pulling in the various vendors to produce such a beautiful setting and atmosphere.

We came to you because of your exacting standards, and you certainly delivered."

Blessings

Eileen Magnus

Serving the Rich...

2010-09-13T11:49:00.003+08:00

Have just completed a wedding with extensive setup, all went really well.. and everyone has fun. When you saw almost more than 100 guests dancing on the dance floor out of 250, you knew you have done the job. Yes, I was very very tired, couldn't wait to go home, it was an outdoor setup of a fully aircon-tentage linked to a fine-dining restaurant, and now we are tearing down all the 7 days hard work in a day.. that's our job, all the hard work for that 1 day finally removed in a day.

This year, we are serving more and more high-end clients, not just in the aspect that they are rich, but they are very influential in the society and the community. I looked back at the journey I have walked through these 7 years, God has been gracious to me and my team. We have gone through intensive and steep learning curve to be where we are today. Serving the rich is not just about knowledge and skill one needs to acquire, it is an attitude of humility and service we learn to cultivate continually within ourselves.

I was teaching one of our youths when he was sharing about his dream. Just like in ancient times, every king has his butler, cup bearer and special crew to take care of his well being. Often we stereotype this group of helpers as mere domestic servants, but in reality, they need to know their field well enough to be able to serve their kings well. Remember Nehemiah in the bible, he was the king's cup bearer. I don't think his role was just checking whether the food and wines were safe for the king's consumption.. he must have been trained to know the different types of wines, the different ingredients within the dishes that would satisfy the king's taste preference. The level of knowledge he had to constantly filled himself with, and the precision he had to be acquired to do his job well to continue to gain the king's trust and attention, that when he eventually asked the king to allow him to return to his homeland the build the broken walls of his nation, the king not only grant his requests, the king gave him resources to do what he desired.

Why would a king be so generous for a mere servant? I believe Nehemiah is beyond just a servant, he was a trusted confidant and friend for his master, and the years of humility and willingness he had demonstrated before the king has enabled the king to trust this man.
That was one thing I am always reminded. I am a wedding consultant, but I am also a butler. When I first came into this industry, I came in with much ideas and creativity, but the first thing I really learnt was to being humble and willing to serve my clients, and today the rich. It is only when you learn how to serve the couple and family, you learn to be connected with them, and that's when their dream becomes your dream and vision for their wedding.

Often this area in my life will be stretched and tested again and again, and during those times, I marvelled at how the Lord has enabled me and team to pass each experience. It was never easy, but the precision and depth He has trained our hands and minds to work amazes me. Lord, teach me always to be humble, to be passionate and never to lose heart to serve the rich.

A bold voice of Hannah Chong has spoken

2010-08-14T10:12:00.009+08:00

I have been silent for many months.. in fact since 2010, I have been quiet in the blog. One part of the reasons was I was really busy creating weddings I have dreamt to create, the other side of me was there were so many gossip and rumours which some players in the industry strive to create about me, that I was really really angry and disturbed. And I think it's high time I speak what I need to speak to the readers and to the local industry players who are certainly watching me.

I have left the corporate world because I want to pursue what I love, but at the same time I don't enjoy the politics in the corporate world, and I thought starting a small firm like mine will not erect much politics anyway, until I became popular, famous etc whatever you call it. The unkind words that were circulating around have affected me and the people I love and respected, and all these years, blogging to me was only a form of education to the readers as well as a form of self therapy where I get to review my thoughts life.. so often I am careful what I write, because I do love my readers, esp my couples.

Today, I decided I need to be bold to express how I have gone and still going thru as an entrepreneur and as a wedding planner in Singapore , a country that is supposed to be very efficient, very open-minded.. but in reality we are in many ways pretty narrow-minded in the ways we think or compete with one another. I wish we are truly open and I still believe one day, Singaporeans can embrace excellence as much as be gracious to one another, esp to people in the industry and to those who serve us.

The last few months, I was so busy, but I have no time to catch up with my contractors/artists I respected. And only in July, I finally got to meet some of them. The news that came around to me were shocking and unfair :

Someone spoke to my florist , "Why should you be loyal to Hannah if she's not loyal to you. Afterall, you are the one that made her famous?"

Another gossip "Hannah isn't the concept creator, she just copy designs from Preston Bailey or from the magazines"

Another remarked "Hannah doesn't take commission from suppliers, but she takes more margins than anyone.."

Another concluded "Hannah is not as good as she claims to be, she overcharges etc etc etc"

I pondered for a long while, and wonder why are people in this industry so unkind.. why are they so foolish not to realise by killing their very own kind, they are killing themselves. I never need to explain to anyone what I do, because I do have the guts and the capabilities to do what I do. Today, I intended to take the risk to share who Hannah really is to you, and let you be the final judge.

Yes, I get inspirations from magazines, and my benchmark of success is never measured against anyone in Singapore. I have always been taught by my mentors, the world is the standards, look beyond the borders. I spent money and time travelling across to the other side of the world to be inspired and to believe this is where my benchmark should be. I admire Colin Cowie, Preston Bailey and David Tutera and many others out there who hold a vision of what they do. They are what they are because they never stop learning, never stop believing, never stop inspiring and be inspired. And every of my works are indeed inspired by these great men in the event industry, but it is also coupled with the personality and creativity of Hannah Chong. Take a look at every of my designs, you will understand what I mean. It is never just Preston Bailey's duplicate, etc, it is always a product I have created with all the inspirations we gathered and further developed, and most important, it is an inspiration derived from my couple's story. That's the reason our corporate tagline is always "Your Story, Our Inspiration".

Which player spends more time than me to critique the staging designs, hires a team in house to do the sets drawings before hiring any contractors, takes time to do press check of all printings even as simple things as invitation cards, goes to meet cake chef and discuss about the designs on her own, spends time reviewing the lightings in every event, instead of leaving to the contractor, spends overnight in the hotel to ensure all setup is accurate and precise as what she has presented to the couple, and even willing to threw in money for more flowers, more lightings, reprints etc to ensure what is delivered is perfect as what she has envisioned, when her own couples didn't even expect that of her. I think no one is as crazy as me..

We are not claiming we are the best. But we do know what we do, and we truly strive to do every part of our works to the excellence level I believe in. Yes, I don't believe in taking commissions, because commissions to me is a fee a contractor pays to a planner/agent for recommending a client. It is a marketing fees. And that's no right or wrong about taking commissions. But for us, we never behave like an agent, we take time to do research, take time to conceptualise, take time to design and redesign, we owns our own internal team of designers I build to do what we do. And for every concept, it is more than just the decor, it is an integration of the concept, the staging, the floral sets, the lightings, even the musicians and the special corners to become the final product of what we envision.

And because of that, I am very fussy, I choose my suppliers, and I don't allow couples to determine the suppliers. The reason is simple, the drawings are from us, unlike some.. and the vision is birthed from us to the couple. Who knows better than ourselves to decide the vendors whom we think can do the job. And our vendors are like my close siblings, without them, I won't be what I am today. But without me, they won't deploy the vision I am seeing.. The cherry blossom trees wedding is a good example. It is not complete if we are not the one that create the painting ( with my in house designers) and give to the florist, without Brenda, the trees will not be erected to be as pretty as it was.. and without my lightings crew and my photographers, it will not become trees that can blossom like in a spring to an autumn time (all in a day).. it is not just one vendor who did the job and make it a wow factor.. no no no... it is a combination of many vendors with their expertise, and with Hannah as the brainchild for that vision. All my vendors from florists, sets contractors, lightings, photographers, musicians etc etc are my beloved, and I protect them as close to my own. Yet there are people who are jealous because they do not believe I have the favour of men.. and to tell you the truth. I am favoured not just because of what we do, not just because vendors like me, but because there's a God up there who takes care of us. Period. I love what I do, I believe in my team (in house and my vendors), and no one can take away that, except God.

And I have seen how gossip and rumours have killed the players in the industry for stupid reasons merely caused by jealousy and envy. Someone told me there are approximately 300,000 weddings in Singapore in a year, and think about that, even 0.1 percent of that is equivalent to 3000 weddings. Can 2 contractors serve 3000 well, can 10 planners serve 3000 well? let's say I make a mistake, and that is only 30,000 weddings in a year, isn't 300 weddings for those who can pay us still too many for the players.. In other words, there are enough weddings for everyone.. so why kill one another.. we are not open minded enough, we are very very narrow-minded.

In conclusion, this is Hannah, all my blog posts are true reflections of who I am. I can't bluff long in my blogging. Ask my staff, ask my vendors or even my couples who have been with me for years, they will tell you who we are. And trust me, we will go beyond Singapore.. I am just tired of the narrow-mindedness here... the world is the real market, why spend time talking behind someone's back killing one another, when we have so much to do in the real world.

My prayer is this : God, open our eyes to see beyond ourselves.. and let you be the judge of all words and works.. To God be the Glory. Amen

Be Gracious, Singaporeans... and learn to enjoy.

2010-06-06T23:19:00.003+08:00

Today, I was in the church service, and pastor shared about what causes discouragements. And interestingly he mentioned about Singaporean lifestyle.. we seem to work so much, then when we go for vacation, we never really rested.. but our minds are still working. And before we realise, we are back home to work again.

I pondered for a while about our lifestyle as Singaporeans, and compared to my experience with my recent trips in Seychelles. Singaporeans are definitely hardworking, driven and often too demanding.. yes, we can be perfectionists. Our environment, and the way we are brought up in this island has made us to be this way. We are always striving for excellence, and tolerated little for any standards lower than that. But the long term result is : we become kiasu (behaviour that expresses fear of losing), impatient and often we become less gracious... which I have begun to see more and more as I worked in this industry.

I was just comparing the clients I have served these past 7 years. We have a good pool of expatriates, foreigners, as well as Singaporean clients. And among all, the weddings that guests really enjoyed and are spontaneous tend to be the former i.e. expat and foreigners' weddings, or when one of the couple is a non-Singaporean. In the past I often wondered why those weddings are generally more fun to be in, and more interesting to plan.. and today I concluded some observations :

1) Singaporeans have failed to see that wedding is a celebration, not a showcase. It is not all about how well the wedding looks, but rather how great the wedding is felt. When the host learns to let go and enjoy, the guests' emotions are influenced as well. We often hear parents say I want the guests to feel good.. but often I wish to remind them feeling good is a community effort, when you choose to feel good, the people around you will somehow be rubbed on to feel likewise)

2) Singaporeans, pls do not be so conscious. I always love the sight of guests jumping onto the dance floor and dance, party and have fun. But it is hard to see that from a traditional Singaporean wedding esp it is held in Singapore. I could still remember I did a Bali wedding for a group of Singaporeans aunties and uncles.. and my bride was surprised that her relatives danced so much in Bali, something she has never seen when she was with them in Singapore. Why is this so? We care too much what people say about us, and allow that subtle voices to prevent us from being true to ourselves.

Breakaway self-consciousness.. and you will start to enjoy the freedom to being true, being yourself. It's ok to laugh over yourself, you are what you think you are. So stop becoming what people think you are, but learn to accept yourself, and be true.

3) A perfect wedding doesn't mean a perfect rating score. What makes a perfect wedding? I often asked. Is it all about 100 points for good service, good food, 100 points for a beautiful gown, beautiful bride, it is all about 10o points for impressive aesthetic setup etc etc..??? NO NO NO.. it's not abt scoring 100 points. We are not taking exams, we are creating and capturing moments.

Every moment is personal, sacred and subjective. What one envisions a perfect wedding is not the same from another. So instead of worrying whether you can score the perfect score for your wedding from all your guests, learn to be live in that perfect moment you have desired of.. when you are happily married, when you enjoy every minute with your loved ones, when you dance your heart out and have a good time..

I have so much stories to share with many couples.. and esp to Singaporean couples. I am proud to be a Singaporean, don't get me wrong, and I am a true breed Singaporean as well.. but having worked in this industry for long, and having travelled so much, I have come to a conclusion : learn to enjoy every moment you live in, learn to let go, and learn to experience the pleasant surprises God has created for each of us.

And for Singaporeans esp, let's learn to be gracious, when there is grace, there is true beauty..something can be planned, something is God's given. And life is perceived all together differently when you see thru the eyes of graciousness.

One unforgettable week experience in Seychelles...

2010-06-01T22:25:00.032+08:00

Just touched ground in Singapore, and so much to share with all my friends about my week experience in Seychelles. It was filled with drama, anxiety, excitement, cries and laughter.. the first wild ride that I have ever had in my entire 7 years of wedding planning, but it's worth it all. I know this project is a launch pad from God to prepare us for the international projects we would have in future.

Seychelles is an island with many islands contained around it, with a population of only 80,000 people, out of which 20,000 are in working community, and only 10% of the population are really well to do. The community is so small that everyone knows everybody, and the way to do business is really through relationships and network. Family ties are very importantly regarded in Seychelles, and everyone is careful to give due respect to one another, when working or coming together. In other words, if there's a quality matter in someone's works, one has to address the concerns in a friendly and respectful manner hoping the best the instructions could be carried out as discussed.

The wedding venue is Le Bourgeois restaurant at Le Meridien Fishermen's Cove. I could still remember how the venue was chosen. When we did our first site visit, the couple had already chosen another new venue they loved. But to me, that venue was nothing spectacular, yet since my couple loved it, we had no problem on the first venue, and had worked a concept based on the first venue overall. Then on the last day of our site visit, I asked the bride whether I could have lunch at Le Meridien Fishermen's Cove, since I heard so much about it. The moment I entered the hotel, I fell in love with the coastline and the viewing deck, and without thinking, I asked her : Why didn't you consider this venue. I could still hear the very words of bride saying : Hannah this place is too small for our wedding size, it can only take about 80 pax. So me being Hannah, asked : are you sure, I would love to discuss with the GM about it. So Mr Olivier Francais met us with us. And we made him walk through the viewing deck and started discussing how many tables can we put on the deck, so from the initial 80 pax, he compromised to house 150, to 180, to eventually 230 pax.. can anyone imagine what has happened. A venue that is meant for only 80 pax, we are now extending it to house 230 pax guests. The hotel has never done a sit down dinner for such size. Yes, Hannah is crazy.. but I could see the guests seated at the crescent shape of the viewing deck in front of the coastline, and looking at the waves, and the scenery, the fireworks.. what a sight. I love it.

26 May
We touched ground in Seychelles airport about 11pm, and Hari brought an extra small box of orchids intending to serve as additional flowers we want to bring for the couple. The rest of the flowers have already been packed into the air cargo. And never did we expect the customs officer refused to allow us to pass the 1 hand carry item through customs, and intended to destroy it since we did not have the documents he was looking for to justify the entry, and created a scene which was unnecessary. In the end, we had to have some other means to retrieve the box. Lesson learnt : When planning for events in remote islands, assume the worst restriction in customs, and never take any single chance.
2 am in the morning, my lightings experts, Sue came back troubled, sharing with me what had been going on in the past 2 days of setup prior our arrival. I was disturbed, it seemed like the local contractors given to us has issues over our leadership and much challenges are envisioned to follow. Eventually I just prayed: Lord, grant us the favor of men, so whatever we have envisioned for this event would come to pass.

27 May
We woke up early, prepared the team for the wedding rehearsal. And we were then told that there was a power testing in the timing we had, so there will be no power running in this part of the island. The event is regarded so important that the authority had to test the powers in this part of the island, to ensure the event has sufficient power to run the event on the actual day. We went through the rehearsal without any sound system, we were well prepared for this last minute change. Rehearsal went well, and I was ready to go on site for the actual constructions.I can't wait to see the outlook of the trellis which we have conceptualised and designed for the local contractors to build. Because of the extended size we have created to house 230 guests, we needed to build a shelter to house all the guests in view of the weather. When it rains in Seychelles, it is as bad as in Bali or Singapore or maybe worse, the rain comes in all directions in huge drops. Initially we explore the use of tentages, but the odd shaped of the crescent coastline and terrain is not feasible and it would look ugly. I still remember in one of those nights I was reviewing the concept, and I saw the existing Gazebo with some trellis within the hotel, and suddenly the inspiration came, why don't we build trellis along the coastline all the way from the walkway to the end of the restaurant instead of using tentage. I shared my thoughts with my in house architect, Irene, and we started working on the drawings. When the drawings was finally out, we love it, and we know it would be a beautiful sight. But we also knew this is going to be a very intensive and extensive setup. Imagine local contractors building a trellis area of 400sqm meter on the viewing deck of a coastline.. the amount of wood we need to use, the amount of labour we need to deploy, the limited time we have, yes it is insane.

So what you see now, is the process of building the trellis on 27 May 10. I have to say, it looked incomplete then, and my heart was beating fast.. can we finish on time, O Lord.
The trellis supposed to be completed on 27 May afternoon, so that the lightings crew could start their work which is another extensive job required, and then my floral team from Hari's end can begin his work.. clearly we could see what has been delayed.. The roof has not been even covered. O Lord, I know for sure we can't afford any rain, do another miracle for me again Lord.

28 May
One more day to the actual wedding, and everyone started to panic in the final deliverable. I worked up at 6.30am, went to site by 8am, and could still see many parts of the trellis undone. The father of bride was giving orders since the contractors are all related to him. Eventually I have to calm him down to assure him all would be well. Deep within, I was stretched. My team went around checking the installation of the roof, the painted trellis, the lightings, the canopy for the hanging flowers. The culture in Seychelles is pretty amazing, unlike in Bali, people do work all the way to midnight to get the job done. But here, because the working community is so small, and family ties are so important, we have had experiences when workers leaving site early because they want to spend time with their family, or they are tired, they couldn't work anymore.. so in that 3 days of building, we went through emotional pacifying and begging to make people stay. I found it hilarious.. but somehow we completed the trellis the evening on 28 May. God thank you.

Even the leaves for the canopy, we have to keep reminding the local supplier to ensure they brought in enough leaves for my florists to get the work done. We need to build approx 100sqm canopy for the bridal area. You must realise Seychelles is unlike Singapore, nor even Bali, it is so remote, equipment here is really really limited. We did not have proper ladders, materials etc, everything had to be either purchased from overseas, or we needed to get it from natural resources. When the local supplier told me he would get the leaves from me, I was expecting him to order the leaves from somewhere, only the day before, I realised he and his team were chopping leaves from the jungles, I was speechless. So on and off, we have to instruct him to cut more leaves. It was quite a teasing sight. I could see Hari and team rushing to put the canopy up with whatever little resources we have. But Hari never fails us always, we did the canopy within 3/4 a day, despite we only have 1 pretty poor conditioned scaffold to use. Eventually the 400sqm was completed in 3 days.

Our next challenge was the lightings and sound installation. We never seem to have a consistent pool of workings working for us. Often you see me & team calling up the lightings contractors to ask when was the team coming. and there were many explanations which up to a certain time, we really think it has become excuses. But like I say, because everyone knows everyone, no one dare to put force onto any. But I have to admit, me & Sue did not go easy with these guys.. there were trashing, and humbling persuasion. I concluded, they have not seen what we can do, and they naturally questioned our leadership and vision. For a good case, we are only required to bring the lanterns, and the installation of bulbs and lanterns were to be handled by the local contractors, but so much delay was experienced, we decided to do the hanging of lanterns ourselves with the bulbs that already installed by the contractors. We just could not risk waiting for the contractors to do it later than we required. Our photographer, Eng Hong ended up hanging the lanterns with 3 of us gals supporting his ladder and assisting him at 9pm to 1130pm, while we are still waiting for the contractors. Who can ever imagine that!!. But thankfully I am also glad we did it, at least we could control how the final look is liked. Despite we have given drawings and measurments and positions of the lanterns to the contractors, still I could see problems could go wrong with not precised installation. Yes, Eng Hong was God sent, I was grateful and at the same time sad, this is not his role afterall, but somehow when we are alone in the island, every member of the Singapore team becomes important.

29 May
Finally, the day has come. we slept only 3 hours, and last night, I spent some moments in the night just crying and praying to the Lord. I was overwhelmed by the project, not so much of the scope of work, but the local challenges and emotions arose in this event. I wish we didn't have to prove what we can do, but rather are giving time to perfect what we have envisioned. But it's alright for us, it was a project that definitely sharpens us.
No one in Seychelles has seen such wedding created in this extent, no wonder they called it the wedding of the year. For us, we know what we can do, but for the locals, it is their first, so it is pardonable. My team learnt to work within the local restrictions and found joy to laugh about it. So in few hours, the wedding began, and I got dressed up, ready for the party.
Hari did his final touches, and I must say, I always love his final moments, somehow he would get it through beautifully. Even though for this project, Hari was only engaged for the flowers and canopy, but it was not as easy for him because of local availability and resources. Everyone worked so long hours, and had so little sleep. I could tell we were all tired, and often when you are tired, you become less patient. But in the end, we had our memories.

Now, there is one thing I want to make mention particularly for this event to be successful. It was the hotel and team we have chosen and worked with. Le Meridien has a great GM - Olivier, without him and his team, none of this can happen smoothly.
Just imagine, for a hotel to allow us to expand the size of the dining area with extensive structure, which is a first for them, the amount of compromise and flexibility they have given us and the couple is beyond imaginations. Imagine the loss of business and guests stay for those days. Imagine the mess of construction processes they tolerated. I just have to say I love this man and his guts.. he has faith or rather he has extended his grace to us. Beyond the permission, he added initiatives for the settings, they brought in new table linens (from Heaven's Gift), new customised seat covers, new furniture for the buffet lines etc.
And I remembered on the last night after we had all the lanterns hanged up, Olivier invited us for a drink around 12midnight.. we ended up laughing at all the silly things we have done together.. and it was a great time of encouragement.

So you must be wondering, how did the wedding go? Everyone partied till 3am. The father of bride called me up the next 2 day, and say, Hannah, thank you thank you, send all my thanks to all in your team. Everyone in town is talking abt the wedding. I teased him : So any regret... No of course no, despite we have our rough wild journey in the beginning, but all was worth it. And I can't help but reminded him : even God is on our side, 3 days of no rain during the setup, and after the wedding is done, showers came only after we took out the paper lanterns.. what a timing... what can you say, God is so gracious, He is in this wedding from the beginning to the end. And my heart is reminded : Our Father in Heaven never leaves us in any situations where He will not be with us. Despite all the back pains, sleepless nites, scars and emotional challenges we have to carry.. but God is in it, and I am so thankful.

30 May
We slept a bit longer, and repacked everything, ready to go home. But again due to waiting time for contractors, we only managed to get all settled by evening. We celebrated Sue's birthday at Hilton Hotel, and it was another beautiful resort, I would love to do one wedding there.

31 May
Me & Irene woke up early, sent Sue to airport. And have a early breakfast, no hurry.. just enjoying ourselves. Today, the team except Hari (as always he has to rush back, poor thing), went for a tour in the island for the first time. We drove along the coast, took lots of pix, and visited Four Seasons. And I thought life now seems back to normal, no more drama.. before I knew, I sprained my ankle had a swollen one, I next hit a rock, and the car tyre was flattered on this rocky road coming out of Four Seasons. And Sam was my saviour, he replaced the tyre... and all was safe. haha,.. yes this is an unforgettable trip really for me.. I laughed at every moments of the preparations and the stay in Seychelles.

So what are my final thoughts?
This is a beautiful island.. God's craftsmanship is observed for sure.
This is an interesting island, an island that reminded me that the world is so small, yet the world is so different.
Finally it also reminded me, the journey to a wedding is always stressful, filled with anxiety, doubts, fear and excitement... but the only way to make it through beautifully, it is to come to realisation : God is in control, and He loves us too much to tarnish our dreams. In fact, He always make things beautiful in His time.

I believe more great projects to come.. and we are definitely sharpen for the future and ready for the journey ahead of us.
Lord, I just want to say : Above all that has happened, I love You.

One more week...

2010-05-22T22:38:00.004+08:00

This week we were all swarmed.. I spent time setting up my mac, and getting my files all transferred from my old pc, since it was infected with virus and that was not good. And in one week's time, I will get to see one of the wedding creations we have designed and have dreamt for long. It is our first overseas assignment that has such extensive setup and construction, building approx 300sqm trellis along the coastline...You can imagine all the works we need to do..

Yes, it is the wedding in Seychelles. It is not a destination wedding, but rather an overseas assignment for us. We are privileged and honoured to be considered by a Seychellen couple to create their dream wedding. There were lots of works, tension and anxiety involved, after all, no one in Seychelles has ever hired a planner from overseas, and no one has done such extensive setup in Seychelles for a wedding. So I could understand their sentiments. And as anxious as they are, I am as excited to see.
This is also the first time, that our designs are deployed by local talents, and the control becomes so critical, it was stressful to manage the diverse standards. But I really want the asethetics to be well managed, in the end, we decided to bring our own floral team up. All I knew now is the Lord must go before us for this wedding, lots of challenges, lots of natural restictions, all the impossibilities but there's only one goal - we want to see it happen, we want to see the impossibilities become possible.

And in the midst of all the preparation and stress, something happened within my soul... something refreshes me from within.. I saw the vision of Heaven's Gift for next 7 years, and it got me really excited.. and I finally understood the joy of being loved... and there's so much I wish to share.. but the time is not right..
One day, all will be revealed, and for now I just need to be patient..

In His time, He will make all things beautiful. Thank you Lord for everything You have given me. Thank you thank you. Help me to continue to believe.

Pls trust the experts

2010-05-10T23:18:00.003+08:00

I have been awoken up at this hour, not by sweet dreams, but by an unexpected call from a client who felt we have changed our design concept which she did not approve. And after talking for 15 mins, then she realised she was not looking at the same drawings we were talking about. It was a mis-interpretation of hers, and best of all, she has not finished looking at the rest of the other drawings before she concluded her thoughts. SIGH....

Honestly I was very disappointed, more than furious. After all the precision, and the efforts we put in, sometimes clients still do not seem to believe in us. And the way we were questioned, I often wonder how long do we need to show others what we can do, before they can simply trust us.

Yes, it is granted that wedding is once in a life time affair, and most couples are anxious of the outcome. Yet I often wish the couples could realise, we are entrepreneurs and experts who are passionate in what we do, and who has built a brand that we believe in. We are humans who have emotions like anyone.. and as experts, we do hold the responsibility of delivering what we have committed..

Lord, give me the strength and patience to continue this journey of creations in the midst of disbelief, uncertainty and doubts,.. when I look at artists like Colin Cowie, David Tuttera & Preston Bailey, I was encouraged, they must have gone thru even more than what I did.. Teach me to be wise and continue to persever.

A new me, or rather it has always been me..:)

2010-03-30T01:01:00.025+08:00

Just came back from Bali, and it has been a long long while since I put my hands into doing the actual floral arrangements for this wedding. We did not have the budget to fly any of our florists down to Bali, so we decided to work with local Balinese florists, and styled the look ourselves based on the concept we wanted -Pretty summer gardens in exotic Bali.

And I am proud to showcase the works. We customise our own lanterns, we believed God for great weather, and it was a fine day. The other side of Bali was having storms, while on the hillside we were in, were shining brightly with cool winds. Isn't God amazing.. and He gave us the best sunset we can enjoy.. At the end, every partied, even my couple could not believe that their relatives were dancing hilariously on the dance floor.. they had a great time.

And yes, I had a hair cut, real short, but chic. I love it, it was back to the look I had when I first started Heaven's Gift. I always had short hair prior to starting my own business, love the carefree, love the sporty look. Then I came to the wedding business, where parents were wondering did I look too young to plan their children's weddings.. so I had to grow my hair to look "old" and "feminine". Yes, it helped in some ways.. but after all these years, I think short hair still fits me best.. that's the real me. And I love it.

2010 is just so special.. I felt a new energy, a new love and a new outlook.. I can't explain. Somehow I know it will be a great year of great discoveries and fulfillment.. I can't wait for Him to unveil what's in store for me..

Love inspires

2010-03-19T10:13:00.003+08:00

Strangely, I seem to find time to blog only when I travel. I suppose in those moments, you review what you need to do for the trip, repack some items, and in the midst of the busyness of travel packing, you often have thoughts you ponder.. and I do have mine at this moment.

Last few weeks were crazy time for us, we have clients flying all over to see us, having meetings after meetings, and we have had 2 house parties to plan. It was a crazy 2 weeks. Precised planning with a client who knows what she wanted. I thought it was just a simple house party, but the precision was straining initially. I can't deny at the beginning it was stressful, to work with another skilled event planner cum designer, and you both rub onto each other (all aspects of energy and creativity).. and the irony is at the end of the two parties planned within 2 weeks, we connected, and somehow we found another good old pal whom we could hang out with. Isn't life amazing, that's what I love about my job.

This year, we achieve our bookings earlier than we expected. God is truly good, He promises amazing increase with rest and joy, and I believe strongly we have and will continue to have. I met some of the most amazing and lovely couples. The love and quirkiness they have with each other, the joy and fun in exploring the creations we have with them just thrilled me.. and in the midst of all, I experience love.. love that I cannot comprehend, love that I know God has brought within me..

My Inspirations and 2010...

2010-02-18T23:29:00.003+08:00

Am currently in Bali, and it is only through moments like this when I am alone, I get to have some space to think of about what I look for in 2010.. and honestly, 2010 will pass us by so quickly. As I travel from places to places, deals are closed, projects are conceptualised, and travel plans are made in advance, and seems like this year, I will be travelling more than I can imagine.. but I do hope I get back to the States again to be inspired and inspire.

I was looking thru one of my partner's website, and it was a great presentation of what he does. I pondered about the people who have inspired me to create and continued to dream and be romanced. My family, the people who stand by me to give me the space to do what I want to do. The partners I have in the industry, from every florist, every technician, every entrepreneur ..each of them brings into my life an aspect of creations... a longing within my heart always to do more, and believe for more.

The year 2010 marks the beginning of completion, the year of divine order. I somehow knew this year is going to be an amazing year for many who believes. And I can't wait to see what God has in store for us. So what is my goals in 2010 :

Believe, believe & believe. I believe beyond my imaginations, something great is happening
Be Happy, Be Yourself. The greatest thing man can ever have - is to be content to being himself and the contentment that all is well.
Bless others as you will be blessed. I want to inspire, but I want to learn to give even more. My God & my family has taught me : Freely freely you give, freely freely you receive.
Finally I want to be inspired and be romanced. Someone shared with me this, and it is so true : To love someone deeply gives you strength. Being loved by someone deeply gives you courage. So I will love deeply, and believe I am loved deeply.

I am back for more fantasy weddings...

2010-02-04T19:48:00.010+08:00

Yes, finally Hannah's back blogging. I have been so so busy since last July, from designing the new office and showroom, to travelling around learning and creating more spectacular events. And the time with Colin Cowie in Hong Kong in last Sept was inspiring.. and the last 3 months, we were just back to back with events after events and my hectic travelling schedule.. and in the midst of all, I told myself I need to spend time with family and friends, so I planned our parties (yes it is job hazard), but I had one of my best Christmas party with my partners and New Year family reunion.

Just finished watching the movie "Julie & Julia" one night, I was reminded I need to be back to write my blog, to keep the passion to inspire and be inspired. And I love to share with you two of the weddings we last created , both of my clients are amazing, the crowd was great, the mood was right and everyone was on the dance floor.. that's the sight I always look forward to have in any wedding..

So to me, weddings are spectacular, overwhelming and yet sweet and intimate. I still tear in some of the speeches moments, and I am thankful for that, I know weddings will still be dear to my hearts. And 2010, we will create more fantasy weddings.. and it will be a year of weddings across borders. So stay tune..

An Important & Sentimental Week...

2009-12-12T09:03:00.011+08:00

Wow, it has been 2 months since I last wrote a blog, that's not good.. I need to set some time for myself more in 2010. This week has been a very sentimental week. A year ago, 10th of December 2008 was the day my granny passed on, yes time flies. And looking back, during those 3 months after her death, we have created some of the best works we have ever imagined. I suppose during those moments, I buried myself in wedding creations and ignored the real emotions of the loss I have within me. And God is good, along with the memories, He enabled me to do what I can't imagine I can achieve, even till today I am still amazed how did I pass through those period of grieve and turn it around with His works of beauty.

The Maldives Impression

The Magical Dancefloor - one will love to have

Classic Elegance

Autumn Fantasy

Exotic Bali

Today, I have another wedding I have been looking forward to create for two doctors with big hearts... and may this be another impression for the coming year. 2010 - a year of destination weddings.

Perfectionist is it a good thing?

2009-10-22T23:51:00.005+08:00

I just came back after a long meeting with my contractors for our upcoming showroom. Sometimes I am amazed I get to meet really good vendors in a short time, even while busy planning for my level 1 showroom, I came across great Classics Interior Designer Firm - The Interior Library - true genius and quality workmanship in classics design. And it was basically a recommendation by Patrick, another honest and devoted sofa designer. So in this journey of planning for your own office space, I met great designers as well as good contractors. It was loads of work to do your own design, and I am convinced in future, I just hire a designer to do all the specs. But being a creative person myself, I just can't help doing all the research on my own.. job hazard.

And interestingly, one designer enjoys the chemistry with another. We all believe in value for money, but at the same time, we even hold steadfast to quality creations. I remember Moses teasing me, Hannah don't rush to confirm us, you need to be comfortable with us? I was asking him why he was so chilled out in not closing the deal, and the answer he gave was classic - That's because we know what we can do and we will do it well. Excellent, I chuckled, isn't that what we will say to our clients as well..

And eventually I paid the extra and confirmed Interior Library for the job. I know I may save more by getting my Carpenter to duplicate some of the designs.. but I am as crazy in getting the precision I want. So in the end, getting the right expert is the way to go.

So what have I learnt : Do your homework, but trust your heart. If you know someone who can do it, just let go and hand over the baton, and in return, you are pleasantly surprised to realise you are free from stress, and you can't wait to be wowed.

3 weeks leading to Hannah's Birthday

2009-10-08T23:26:00.013+08:00

This past 3 weeks was an eventful time. I got a chance to observe and personally coached by Colin Cowie, the Celebrity and Premier event planner from States to launch the opening of a hotel in Hong Kong. Colin Cowie is one planner whom I really respect and the short 1 week with him and team was an awesome experience and life changing moment for me. What touches me is in this 1 week journey, I was assured that whatever I have set my heart to do for my clients and my business in the past years were rightfully crafted and every process I have created was the right step to the business I have envisioned. You could almost hear from my heart beat crying out "Thank you, Thank You, Thank You Lord, You made all things beautiful in Your time". I really look forward for the day I will create an event with Colin, and I believe it will come.

I met up too with my ex-boss in HK who still amazes at the fact that I have become a wedding planner and how I have grown my business in the past 6 years. Someone who was so concern I chose the right path, and someone who has seen the hands of God in my life. Eventually he told his wife this "Hannah is one bold little woman, she has done things that always amazes me, and simply because the Lord that is in her, has shown her what He can do through her" Amen & Amen.
I also had a great time with my ex-brides in HK, and got to be introduced to a new potential couple from my ex-clients. So you can imagine, I came back from HK fully charged and refreshed. Then I headed back to being busy preparing all the concepts, mock ups for the food tasting, and every moment went by so fast, that 3 weeks have just passed by so quickly. I have literally forgotten my upcoming birthday, preparing a business trip that falls on my bday.. I am a workaholic :(

So we had a great wedding on 3 Oct at Raffles Hotel. My couple came today and gave us a box of Canele goodies with a little card..

Dear Hannah & Heaven's Gift Team,

We would like to thank you and your team for making our wedding such a memorable and beautiful day. When we first engaged your services, some people questioned us "if a wedding planner the right way to go?" We are so happy that we stayed with our convictions, Heaven's Gift delivered as what was promised. The Gazebo with the lanterns, the colour scheme of the rooms of the Casuarina suites looked absolutely fabulous. We both felt like we were the stars of a movie. The candy corner looked and tasted fantastic and the photo booth had people engaged and gave the guests' something that they had never experienced before. The confetti was.. well remained in the cone, unused.. and we are hoping that we can get a refund????!!! Joking aside, we have heard from our guests that they have never experienced such a fun wedding - P & G modern and chic wedding with a touch of blue is a blast.
Joseph, one of our groomsmen who has been to a number of Singaporean's weddings and that our wedding was the first for him that Caucasians and locals mixed so well and enjoyed themselves. Heaven's Gift - you have done it! Bringing cultures and people together, not an easy task... Thank you so much for making this the "best day of our lives" - Philip & Gladys Carrigan

You would have guessed I was so happy to read this. Yes, creating a pretty wedding is my passion, but making a wedding that my clients and guests have great fun at is my fulfillment. On my way back from KK to Singapore, I was pleasantly surprised with all the sms, facebook birthday messages from my friends and partners in the industry. Often you don't take your birthdays seriously, but a note from your loved ones and friends does carry much weight.
And today, I received another birthday greeting from Elena - my ex-designer who has gone to further her studies :

Dearest Hannah, Happy Belated Birthday!
Been wanting to say a big Thank You for all the opportunity that you've given me over the past few years. Still am not quite sure why did you believe that I could do something for the company when I did not have much to prove then...Thank You!
One thing that I'm always thankful for despite that I may not be as well-to-do as compared to my peers is that in the midst of working, I always had good bosses that are understanding, willing to take time to teach and give advice with regards to my career which really is a blessing. Especially so working at Heaven's Gift. Your belief in me has really spurred me to go beyond what I think I could have ever accomplished.
There was one day while I was at home organising my documents on the computer. I came across cards that I designed in the past and I felt embarrassed for a while. For me to think that those designs were marketable for weddings at that point of time! From that, I can say I have progressed and of course, it was not only just me, but us as we worked together, fine-tuning the cards and tweaking them into the final product.
I guess in the sense, Heaven's Gift is not just a gift for the couples that you plan weddings for but also a gift to me as an employee - a treasured opportunity to explore my creative potential and translate it into elements that are part of the day that mark the start of our couples' life as one and for me, each wedding a work of progress and accomplishment.
And on your birthday, I hope that Heaven's Gift continues to be a gift to you too and I'm sure that it will also be a gift to all that the company works with, be it the vendors, suppliers, clients, or employee :)
Happy Birthday once again, and Thank You! Elena.

I kinda stopped blogging.. due to my busy travel and planning schedules.. and yet I decided to pen down the 3 weeks' journey and all the pleasant greetings to remind myself, that the path I took to be a planner, a boss, an entrepreneur was God's gift to me. And on my birthday, I just want to say "Lord, thank you for everything, truly you will give beyond what one can imagine or comprehend".

I am on Twitter :)

2009-09-19T00:51:00.003+08:00

Somehow when I am outstationed, I am more adventurous.. and today I decided to be on Twitter. As private as I can be, I am intrigued to explore all these much talked about communication channels.. It was strange no one register hananhchong for twitter.. so I am fortunate to own my name on it..
Looks like I will be having fun exploring this new tool..

I am so inspired and motivated

2009-09-17T02:17:00.003+08:00

I am supposed to be sleeping, but couldn't sleep, so much is going thru my mind as I recalled the learning I have today simply by just observing Colin Cowie walking thru the details prior to the launch of the The Mira hotel.

Even as I am penning down my thoughts in this new post, my mind is blank.. I can only say I stand in awe of someone whom I really respect and one who is really really good at what he does. Somehow today's experience brought joy and a new inspiration to my soul..

Many local vendors often wonder why Hannah & team is so particular about everything. I will spend time and visits to relook at printing of wedding stationery, floral arrangements created by the florists, retesting the lights by the lighting crew, rechecking at the table settings etc etc. and why our team will painstakingly checking on every details..
After today when I compared what we have done to what Colin & team have done .. we have so much, so much to learn...I tell myself I am not going to be shy of striving to be meticulous, to be a perfectionist. If you want to be good at what you are doing, you have to really work hard to be excellent in all that you do.

The Y Generation that amazes me...

2009-09-07T00:01:00.008+08:00

A week ago, I wrote about my dream for Generation Y, and these 2 days, I am inspired much by Generation Y. I came back from a farewell party 2 days ago. It was the party to send off Charissa (one of my ex-interns /youths) to London for her pursuit in fashion design studies. And I was very impressed and touched by every item that was presented on that day. She has learnt well and she is a very very creative lady... the overall decor, the table settings and the favours were pretty, simple and chic, and it's very her...

And we have one amazing cake chef among us, Joey, who created this Mickey Minnie Castle for her.. and it's all handmade.. and it's unbelievable. Charissa's dress was sewn by her friend, some of her gifts were handmade, including the bouquet she was carrying.. and the presentation performances by her friends were touching and creatively scripted..

Today, I came back from another dinner party for leaders, where some of our kids and youth performed an item b4 all leaders. It was one performance I initiated to be "The Producer", and yet I have to be honest, other than me guiding the youth in terms of the theme for the script, getting control in terms of logistics & overall planning, the rest of the works from the script, the dance, the props, were crafted by our youths. And it was one professional and creative performance.

I came back very recharged, very refreshed, very inspired as much as I was very very tired.. having to dance so much with the youths, knowing I am at least 2 times if not more, older than them. This is the Y Generation of my dream. I long to see the future history makers, fashion trends makers, and most of all, leaders of the next generation. I am thankful that God gives me a chance to be a part of this legacy, and it causes me to rethink my long term goal in life.. Yes, being able to lead and see how lives are transformed is the greatest privilege. and I don't want to lose the passion to continue to do that.

My Dream for the Generation Y

2009-08-31T22:47:00.008+08:00

Last night, I had a great time chatting with a friend of mine who is a lecturer in one tertiary institution. We were commenting how Generation Y differs much from our Generation X. Today I received an email from a NUS student, requesting for a face to face interview with them for a school project they wanted to do on Heaven's Gift. Interestingly she listed all the questions she wanted to ask of me, and ended with a note "It will be good if we can have the interview tomorrow or Wednesday..." that's 24 hours notice, and imagine the email was received during my off day;)

I was just reminded of last night conversation, and I was again not surprised at this instant - "want it quick, want it fast" mentality of Generation Y. Do not get me wrong, I don't detest Generation Y, in fact I marvelled and often inspired by this generation. I personally handle a group of them under my regularly church ministry, and I am often amazed of what they can do , and how creative and talented they can be. 2 weeks ago, I gave an assignment for my church youth to write a script for a stage performance, and within few hours, the script was created, my job was only to guide and inspire them to make the script more consolidated and meaningful. And within 2 rehearsals, the entire youth group came up with amazing dance steps, skit etc and it was a well done piece of performance. That's Generation Y. They can come up with an idea almost instantly and they could surprise you with their talents and inspirations. They believe much in themselves, what they can achieve, and they will strive to make it excellent for the very goal they want to achieve. They are resourceful, and have a mind of their own, they are not followers, they are leaders.

Yet, in the midst of such individuality and efficiency, they sometimes forget about patience, tolerance and perseverance. We have received many internship applications, and I often wish I could have the ability to coach every single of those applicants. However, in many of those job applicants' responses, I often sense a lack of willingness to wait, be disciplined and be perfected.

I was reminded how my past mentos have trained us. We were only allowed to be promoted to next step, when we learnt to master the first step.. and often till we were grateful of what we had, we were then given more opportunities. And today, I felt the need to share this part of my heartbeat. I was joking with my pal, I am reaching my forties in few years time, it is so scary.. and yet it is as intriguing because it is the age of achievement and fulfillment. You have grown to master a skill, and you have grown to be grateful of what you have. And at the same time, you know you need to impart to the new generation

So this may be "2 cents worth advice" for the Generation Y, as I know some of you will be reading this post, may this post inspires you to seek more, to humble yourself to relearn some of life steps, and to believe that you can be a great legacy to the next generation.

Generation Y

Do learn to be quick to listen, and slow to speak. Learn to observe what your seniors behave, excel and be willing to listen to their advice. In the presence of counsel, there is wisdom

Be bold to venture into the unknown, follow your heart and pursue your passion. But do it with an awared mind of the cost and consequences. Passion is not just about pursuing dreams, passion is being focus and persever till it becomes a part of you.

Respect your elders - your grandparents, your parents, your teachers, your leaders, your bosses.. submission with humility is great gain. When you learn to make your elders successful, you learn to handle success in your life.

Patience, Perseverance with Tolerance. No success comes easy, no success is made overnight, It is a life journey of learnings and relearnings.. So for now, learn to give others time to catch up with you, and learn to be gracious to others. At the same time, press on don't give up easily when you are stretched or tested.

Finally, learn to let go. I was taught by my ex-boss, you only know you have become a Master when you are willing to let go the very thing that make you one. Sound "chim", but I only understood that much later. When you master a skill or talent, you take time to discipline and perfect it, until you are good at it. But how do you know you have become a Master of it? It is when you are no longer bothered by it, by the perfections, by what people say about you, by the fame or failure that comes with it, you know you have overcome, because you have learnt to let go. This is so true for myself too.. I only really grow when I learn to let go, and share with others.

So I look forward in 10 years time, the new generation of inspiring wedding planners and entrepreneurs.

Inspiration -Passion begets Passion

2009-08-29T00:00:00.003+08:00

I just came back from a dinner with one of my couples.. Eugene & Fiona, a very laid back and a very sincere couple. I am always blessed to have met such down to earth clients. This meeting was the final concept meeting, allowing my couple to envision what the final wedding night will be liked with all the details. Ead joined me for this meeting to have a time with couple as well...

And somehow, our conversation evolves from concepts, to photography, to medical, to passion and life goals... it was an interesting but heart warming discussion. I was reminded passion begets passion just like fire begets fire. I came back excited, happy and I can't wait to see the wedding in its final totality.

I ponder as I am write this new post...this is the kind of life I want to live. I want to inspire others, I want to be inspired. There are not many chances when we meet people of same philosophy, and when we do, we wish we could linger longer.. because we often seek to find that gathering of new ideas, new inspiration and eventually find like-minded friends and co-workers.

Hmm... not sure how to end this post, but for now, I want to say I do love my job. As crazy and hectic as it can be at times, it is as adventurous, exciting and intriguing. I can' wait to be in HK.. it will be one learning experience I will remember for life. This year will pass by with more than I have ever asked or imagined.

Join us for the Movie Preview of "The Proposal" and visit us at GV Marina on 13 Aug, 7pm.

2009-08-08T10:09:00.001+08:00

Yes, we will be showcasing our wedding works, together with our long time partners, Silhouette - the Atelier, 39 East Photography. So couples out there who are keen to know more about marriage proposal, planning your wedding, come and purchase this special preview tickets at GV Marina for 13 August (Gallery from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Preview Talk : 9.00pm-9.30pm. Movie Preview 9.30pm - 11.00pm) and we will certainly love to see you there.

It has been a long time since we last did a gallery, but somehow, the 6th year marks a new beginning into our next phase of growth. Looking back, I could still remember our first wedding workshop with Amanda Lee Weddings, 39 East Photography(then it was call Pentaserve Photography), Substance Films, Vividshots and Poppy Restaurant. And we were also priviledged to partner with Females Brides for couple of great wedding shows, including showcase of Vera Wang gowns.
Yes, it has been 6 years ago.. time truly flies..

Someone asked me "Hannah why are you entertaining the mainstream market, we always thought Heaven's Gift is targeting to niche market segment". I just laughed, in fact since the very beginning we have never really planned to target any market segment. Reflecting back, we started the business opening our arms to all customers (a rightful thing to do for new business), but somehow strangely, many of our couples that hired us were Inter-racial couples, expatriates, and couples who wanted a twist to conventional weddings. And we are so fortunate that all these years, our couples often come to us simply because they trust that we can deliver what they want, and their trust often amazes me. At the same time, deep down, I am also a heartlander, I want weddings to be as intimate as possible, more than just a showcase, more than just looking good. To me, a wedding is all about emotions and memories. To able to see your guests rush to the dance floor, enjoying the goodies corners we created, and we able to still tear for those exchange of vows, speeches.. that is true satisfaction. And the passion to share and educate more about wedding industry continues to burn within me, so here we are, you will see more of us in the coming years.

A reflection of past 5.5 yrs

2009-08-01T23:36:00.002+08:00

Today, I received a note informing me that I was nominated for the Spirit of Enterprise Awards http://www.soe.org.sg/files/nominees2009.php, and the voting for the awards is launched for the month of August. The voting will determine partially with the panel of judges to access who among the list of nominees are deserving entrepreneurs for the title.

I can't help but look back at all that we have grown over the last 5.5 years. It has been an exciting and a steep journey of discovery. From a one man company in a small serviced office at Maxwell House, we are now a team of five blessed with a two story cosy showroom and office space. But beyond the physical facade, I marvelled at how the Lord has led myself and my team to create weddings we have once dreamt of, to places where we can't imagine our works has ventured into.
Last week, I rededicated this business again to the Lord, with our fellow cell members who have witnessed how I began this business. We are now in a new phase of another level of growth. Honestly, I am unsure what's to come, and yet deep within, I am as excited and nervous as I have been 5 years ago. All the hard work and labour has now positioned us in a place that we are ready for more. As much as the uncertainties are unknown, the opportunities are intriguing..

When Pastor shared with me the word that she felt was rightful for me, I teared knowing that at the end of all things, the greatest blessing is the Lord.. and all that we have gained for the last 5 years were given freely by Him. Yes, many will say I am a different entrepreneur, I believe in destiny. I am not one who like to spiritualise everything, but I am one who have seen the works of my Creator, and I am fully conscious of who I am and who I will be in Him. I can only share with all who want a breakthrough in your business or career, "Today well lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness, and every tomorrow a vision of hope." So tell ourselves our job is to live and give our best for the day, I need not worry of what's to come, because the very step of faith we take to live well for the day, will turn all our yesterdays a dream of happiness, and all our tomorrows a vision of hope. So be encouraged.. the future is unknown, but our future is in the hands of a known Almight God.

We have moved...

2009-07-16T00:50:00.003+08:00

Our new office is located at 42 Hoot Kiam Road, near Zion Full Gospel Chuch and Great World City Shopping Centre- another place to hang out.
Last week was a hectic week, we finally shifted to our new office on last Mon.. and being a perfectionist, I wanted to make sure the moving was efficient and orderly, so our team have everything packed ready to move in for the new space and by Wed, all was installed and everything was made ready for guests to meet us again, except we faced technical problems with Singtel which frustartes our operations... another long story.

Otherwise, I love this new place, unique and cosier.. and I can't wait to do up the showroom level, couple of months to go for that.. and soon it will be a pretty unit..

And now we are helping our landlord to look for tenants to occupy our quaint little ex-office in Jalan Klapa. It's approx 1000 sqft, from 2nd to 3rd level.. with false ceilings and lights, and carpets already installed.. ready to move in condition for any office.. so it will be a pretty place for small business such as design house, photography, artistic business related. Call me if you are keen to see the place. They are asking about $2.2-$2.4 neg.

Inspiration from Nature - Our Heaven's Gift

2009-06-27T01:03:00.005+08:00

Just got to see the pix from a wedding in Jan this year. I can't help to realise I love the concept of trees in weddings, many of our weddings last 1 year was inspired through nature particularly trees.. and I love the silhouette of trees. This is another wedding inspired by Nature, and I was reminded : Nature - The Heaven's Gift. Pix taken by Kelvin Koh from Lighted Pixels

Garden Bugs Kids Party.... I just love it..

2009-06-26T22:56:00.006+08:00

Last week, we did a school garden party cum 6th year old birthday celebration at Eton House. It was great fun, creating those details, the overall concept from decor to cake to the stationery, and as usual, I have my team to look into all aspect of details and designs to make the party pretty and fun. It was a concept of garden bugs filled with pretty lanterns & balloons, cheery flowers & butterflies with customised bugs games and telematches.... and having the kids dressed up in garden bugs was the best final touches.. I really love the final outlook.
To be honest, doing a kids' party takes up more energy than creating a wedding... but all the charming faces of the children and their spontaneity on that day brought us so much joy and laughter.. and it's worth it.

I am certain we will have more children parties coming on our way...simply because I definitely getting younger planning those parties ;) And Aloysus from 39east did a great job capturing those moments.

A beautiful concept...

2009-06-17T01:15:00.004+08:00

Managed to gather sometime to take a look at all the past months weddings we have created. And one wedding concept was worth sharing, and one that we are happy to showcase. The wedding that we spent substantial efforts developing the theme and creating all the pretty details.
And what pleases me most was the essence of the concept was well captured by Eadwine Lay from http://www.plushphotography.com.sg/. Thank you Ead.

I just love the colours, all the little details, and I am sure you will enjoy it as well.

Excitement is in the air...

2009-06-12T23:10:00.014+08:00

Back from Turkey, and somehow I was inspired by the Asian part of Turkey. I marvelled at the wisdom of Ancient Man, and I stood in awe the special provisions of God to His people. These were some of the places I love. Somehow I know 2009 and 2010 is going to be a year of unexpected reaping of His provisions... like what the saying goes : Soon all will be revealed and all will know in His time, He makes all things beautiful.

Cappadocia - Ancient Christians hiding places

Colourful Spices of Turkey

Ephesus TheatreImagine a theatre that holds 25,000 pax, and the Ancient architect could create it in such as way that when the speaker spoke from the stage, everyone at the theatre could hear him clearly - without any need of mikes and sound system.. that's genius.

Pamukkale - Beautiful Limestones..It was awesome walking down on these nature-crafted land

Bali Weddings - More to come

2009-06-06T14:59:00.020+08:00

These days, we see many advertisements and featured articles on Bali weddings.. and indeed Bali is a great place to get marry in. Received some great shots from Kuang (from 39 East Photography) who is such a great chap to work with. So enjoy some of his details shot I have asked him to take for me for this wedding..

And I simply love Balinese and our people who worked there. They just know how to serve the guests. And as simple as we think they can be, they are a joy to work with, we have a good team in Bali who we are proud to have. Building a floating stage and a floating dance floor was never an easy task.. but our team did it to our precision, and it is just perfect when all is completed. Our guests always have fun at our weddings, and you bet the photographers have great time capturing those moments.

So look out for more Bali Weddings Heaven's Gift is offering : Be it Simple Exotic Bali Weddings, or An Extravagant Celebration you want to spend with all your loved ones, we have something for everyone.

More pix from Gabriel Mendes

A Celebrity Planner Coming to Town...

2009-06-06T14:47:00.005+08:00

I just got back this week from Turkey, was a rested trip. I am pleasantly surprised when none of my couples called me, it was as what they have wished for me : Have a good rest Hannah, you deserve it. And I did have a great time.
Back to office, lots of things to consolidate. We got a few interesting updates and calls from the industry players. "Do you know David Tutera is planning a wedding in Singapore?" "Who is working with David Tutera?" "Are you one of them?" "Which florist has he chosen?" etc etc etc
It is not surprising, since this is the first time a Celebrity Planner from the States is coming to town to plan an event, and no wonder all of us want to be a part of it. We are all curious to see the players that will be involved.. but I am sure of one thing : It will be a great experience to see David, the genius at work.

A part of me is tempted to know the outcome, yet a part of me just simply trust the One Almighty.. If it is yours, it will be yours. If it is not, better things is awaiting for you. So I learn to focus on what I do best : Continue to conceptualise the best ideas for your couples, and wow your couples what you can do. And who knows, you may one day become a Celebrity Planner.

Children Birthday Parties

2009-05-23T16:01:00.017+08:00

Just gotten the photos from Eadwine, and I always love his shots. This is our first children birthday party, but we have had great fun doing it. Have been leading children worship for so long, but never expected myself to be doing kids party, such an irony... and I believe more to come from now on. So enjoy these details as we have enjoyed creating them - DanDan's Safari. Jo sourced the hats, and we all love the customised balloons and I have fun decorating the place with my gals, and not forgetting my brother Chris.

I am so glad I have Joey to do this cake (a tree house with all the cutie animals). Joey, you are a genius... and I know you will be a great Pastry Chef after the Sydney training. And one thing the kids have greatest joy in : queuing up to exchange their goodies - even the mums were excited to choose for them.

See the smiles of the children, that made our day!!!

More Social Events to come

2009-05-18T00:20:00.003+08:00

May is an interesting month, I get to create events beyond weddings.. and I love the new change. We had a great wedding on 9 May for Amy & Bill.. great crowd, great fun, almost everyone was dancing, something the couple has not expected.. but something I am always looking forward to - i.e. to witness all guests having a great time esp on the dance floor.

On the same week, we were approached by a corporate event company to plan 2 gala dinners for one of the conferences. Who will ever thought of engaging a wedding planner to design the gala dinner for another event company. It was a business opportunity I have not expected, but it was a partnership I look forward to foster.

And yesterday, we planned our first children birthday party for my cell member's 6yr old son - Daniel. My entire team enjoyed this new change.. from designing the invitations, to the games, scoreboard, safari decorations, and even the goodies and gifts corner etc etc.. we can't wait to show you the pictures. And we have never expected our first enquiry to spark off on the same day of the event.. I looked back and am truly grateful that even in times like this : God remains faithful and will always be faithful.

March weddings are awesome!!

2009-04-21T20:07:00.006+08:00

Finally, we have just received all the images from March weddings and I just can't stop smiling. In March, we have 3 weddings :

A British Indian Couple having a garden wedding at Raffles House in Fort Canning Park
A Taiwanese & Singaporean couple having exotic Maldives wedding at St Regis Singapore
A Singaporean and French couple having an enchanted wedding in Bali.

And each of the wedding setup is extensive and one of a kind. Yet strangely I was not tired, but was refreshed and energised, I just can't wait to do more of such weddings. I believe one of the key reasons for such energy was all 3 couples were trusting, and they allowed us to take one step further with the concepts and at the end of the day, everyone in our team had fun creating the concept and details. So enjoy the slide show, i.e. www.heavens-gift.com/couple.htm ; it may take slightly longer than usual, simply because Hannah just couldn't stop adding more pictures in the slide show.. :)

How to begin your wedding plan?

2009-04-16T20:33:00.010+08:00

"I am getting married!", this is the most magical remark every woman dreams to share one day. It's the dream that we may have been planning and fantasizing since we were little girls. And no wonder, it is stressful when we try to put our 20 years of fantasy to plan for that 1 perfect day we can't wait to have. So how do we begin our wedding plan, without overstretching ourselves. I am going to try to pen down all the necessary tips in 1 blog post:

1) Set a budget before you do anything.

This is such an important step in wedding planning, and ironically it is one area many have overlooked. When we are excited about getting married, we can't help to start shopping for all the essentials such as gown, wedding venue, photographers etc.. and often we start incurring expenses, before we even realise that we may have overblown the wedding budget. So take time to discuss with your partner how much you are going to put aside in your wedding budget, and do a simple spreadsheet to include all the expenses you can imagine of to spend. Do not just think about the food and beverages, think about the wedding details such as flowers, wedding stationery etc and put it a reasonable budget. Measure your budget against the market prices. Only when you have worked out a budget, then you can start narrowing down your shopping list, and selecting the right venue and vendors becomes easy.

2) Shop smartly for vendors.

Personally I don't believe in combing the entire bridal shops or wedding venues to find one perfect selection. As a busy executive, I believe in shopping smartly. Ask yourself, what are you looking for in a vendor : the skills, the designs, the style, the price. And with that, narrow down your selections, and visit max 3 suppliers for each category to complete your selections. In fact, if you have done enough research on the web or through the magazines, you usually need to visit 2 players, and you will know who you will end up with. Find an expert you trust, view their profile and portfolios, and measure the strengths against their price, and at the end, choose someone you are most comfortable with, because selecting a vendor in the wedding industry, is like choosing a property, you buy it not solely based on price or 1 specific factor , often your final purchase is coupled with a touch of your personal preferences. So go with your heart.

3) And finally, take time to think about your bridal party . A bridal party is the extended helps you would want to have. They are your "stress coolers", your "butlers" as well as your "help mates". Have someone who will look after you and is passionate to make you the most beautiful and happy bride of the day. Do not end up with others who are more paranoid and stress you further with more decisions and concerns to look after. I have witnessed weddings where the bridesmaids were more anxious than our brides, and instead of releasing the brides from worrying, the poor brides ended up worrying for their bridal party, which is really uncalled for.

And as a wedding planner, I can't help to add one conclusion : Pls find a wedding planner. These days, having a wedding planner is not a luxury, it is a necessity. You will often discover, a planner is more than a consultant, we are your bouncing boards for ideas, for some of us, we are your designers and executors of your perfect day, above all, your confidant whom you can share your dreams to, and together we shall unveil that little dream of yours to those whom you love to share with.

So have fun and enjoy every moment of your wedding planning.

Employment opportunities or internship with Heaven's Gift

2009-04-05T22:19:00.004+08:00

These past few months, we have received so many resumes that we stop counting how many applications we have had to date. A pity that most applicants do not match the fundamental profile of team mates we are looking for.. tho some of the applicants are very well educated, experienced, otherwise, I will love to meet some of them.

So I decided why not we pen down and share with you the profile of a planner assistant we are looking to hire. And if you are the one, do write in to us, we are keen to meet you.
Basically we are not looking for short term internship, if you desire to be an intern for us, we need at least a minimum of 6 months commitment, preferably longer period. The main reason is it takes at least 6 months, if not more for someone to know the basic fundamentals in the wedding industry. All of our clients are generally well travelled, business executives or expatriates, so the ability to communicate well, as well as presenting one's knowledge with precision is essential. I don't believe in trial and error approach, every member represents a part of Heaven's Gift, and you need to be confident and know what you are talking about when you face the client.

Nevertheless, I am willing to explore new or old blood who possesses the following qualities :

If you are willing to humble yourself and serve, imagine being a butler for the bride, helping her to wear her shoes, fetching things around for her or her family, and not perceive these tasks as lowly duties, then it is the first step to become a planner assistant.
To be able to work as a team. No one acts like a boss in our team. Everyone learns to support and help one another. It is through that, you get to learn even more and be an efficient planner assistant
Commitment, commitment and commitment. Contrary to what many think - wedding planning is so fun, it is actually a very tedious and strenuous job. We may start work late, but we work even later. Before the event begins, we are there, when all guests leave, we are still working.. Our working time stretches more than one can imagine. Clients' rest days is our work days, Client's work days is also our work days.
A passion for design. In fact, I am looking for more than a flair, I am looking for talents in design and creations.. I may not be physically handling all the designing, but I do know how to train one to be good in this area. We are looking for ability and availability.
Finally and most importantly, I do look for reliable and faithful team mates. The industry is too small, and too competitive. We are not looking for players who seek to take a short cut , and try to be the next competitor. We rather train someone who believes in the organization, has the heart to learn and contribute to the team, than for someone who watches and tries to duplicate. On a hind note, we know most of the planners in the industry, some have become good partners, whom we refer to clients as well when our hands are full. I always believe each planner is unique and draws a certain group of clientele.. but as any planner, I am certain no one embraces a "stealer".

And after reviewing the above checklist, and the demanding qualities, and you still think you could be the one for Heaven's Gift, then we want to meet you..
Please do not call or sms me to get a job which amazingly, some actually did, I just thought that is very unprofessional. You want to impress your boss with your first impression, send a proper resume and let us do the calling. I look forward to see the new batch of applicants who know what they are getting into.

I think many may be surprised to see my upfrontness, but it is good to know who you will be working with. I strongly believe in training planners of next generation to be professional and capable; despite some may perceive planners liken to the Hollywood movies - disorganised sloppy learners, I think it's time for a change. This is a professional and highly qualified occupation, so be different, and strive to be excellent.

Tribute to Adji

2009-04-02T00:47:00.003+08:00

I was just informed, an ex-colleague of mine-Setiadji Adityawan (Adji) from Jakarta has passed away due to a heart attack. I am in shock, and this is a dear colleague of mine. We both have grown stronger ever since our last encounter at the Marriott Hotel Bomb in Jakarta 6 yrs ago... I am speechless and all I can do is pray for the family, and Adji, this is my little short note to you as you are watching down from Heaven.

Tribute to Adji, my dear brother..
What can I say about you, my pal..
You have had been a warrior who never stop fighting the good fight.
You have had been an encourager who never stop expressing your love for us
You have had been a brother who protect and stands by me all the time esp in my days in RPS..

Sometimes life seem so uncertain, so unpredictable, and yet I know from the bottom of my heart that you know like I do, that our unknown future is in the hands of a known God
I simply trust that you are resting in Him, I prayed just as much as I prayed for my granny...
that He knows what's best for your family, and He will take care of you, and your loved ones, just as He is taking care of mine and my loved ones..

Exotic Bali - another great Bali wedding...

2009-04-01T18:36:00.006+08:00

I just touched ground from Bali, and when I logged onto my inbox, I was thrilled.. one thank you note from my couple from the Bali wedding, one link from Gabriel Mendes blog for the pictures he took, and one sms from Kuang whom I brought in to take some of the details shot.. every note from the team just makes me want to do another wedding soon in Bali.

The couple enjoyed themselves, the guests were spontaneous and they knew how to have fun, the team behind the scene were great. I would not have done it without you guys, thank you once again..

One thing I love about Bali, the people are so patient, they know how to make their clients happy. Usually in Singapore, besides having to supervise the setup, and the testing of sounds and lightings, my team has to further supervise the servers to ensure they response to the guests' requests, but in Bali, we just need to get the setup and details ready, and the Balinese and Javanese servers always amazes me, I just don't need to supervise, they sure know how to serve the guests well.

This wedding is as challenging as any of my other weddings, we need to build the dancefloor, the floating walkway and stage on the pool, and the first time we did it in this venue - Atas Ombak. So imagine while band was performing, guests were dancing, and next you know, everyone jumped into the pool the moment the party began.. yes, it's crazy.. but everyone had fun.. I know my team was crazy trying to ensure no one slipped and hurt themselves.. esp my bride. At the end, all went well... So enjoy the pictures taken by Gabriel, and I can't wait to see the rest and the lot from Kuang too

It is Heaven's Gift...

2009-03-15T03:46:00.004+08:00

Today is another amazing wedding.. I can't help to log on to my blog in the wee hours of the night to record the experience. Today is just another miraculous encounter of God's faithfulness. Few hours ago, we planned a wedding for an British Indian couple at Raffles House in Fort Cannning Park. It was a small wedding with extensive logistics setup. We have wedding ceremony under the tree decked up with hanging flowers, bird cages and lanterns. For cocktail, we have Raffles House transformed into the Blue chill out room, where guests enjoyed their canapes and welcome drinks. We were then welcomed by the lion dances to the dining area at the Flagstaff lawn which is the down the steps below the Raffles House. After dinner, we were wowed by spectacular stunts of the Bhangra dancers, ushering guests back to the Raffles House where the real party began.

One could imagine the extent of the setup. I love to work with great spaces and landscape. Can't deny one of the greatest challenge is to ensure all setup is completed in the midst of uncertain factor like the weather. The day before the wedding, we have to setup the tentage, carpeted the entire flooring including the stairs, the platform etc in the rain.. I still cannot imagine how much we went through to complete the setup..

According to weather report, it was supposed to rain in the morning, but it didn't. The weather was really hot and humid, by 5pm, the clouds filled the sky, and everyone around me was telling me Hannah the weather did not look good.. could we go to plan B. I remembered very clearly a voice within my heart said : Hannah, do you have faith? And I knew immediately, what to do. I asked my groom the same question, it was interesting when Faizal answered : Hannah, must I make a decision now... I simply nodded my head, and we both answered : let's go with our faith.. having all done we have created.. and let me share with you, the moment we agreed in our heart to go ahead, you literally saw the clouds moving sidewards.. we got our ceremony done under the tree with perfect weather.. and we have had the lion dancers coming down the stairs with no signs of raindrops.. and despite the clouds stayed darker later in the evening, God was so good He held the rain till we went back to the Raffles House from the dining area, and only when everyone started dancing, the rain came..

What can I say, God did it again.. it's another Heaven's Gift to me and my couples.. And the truth is all our guests witness the miracle, esp my couple and my team. Everyone had fun, I have mine as well simply watching the transformation of His wonders.

The meaning of wedding...

2009-02-22T00:11:00.003+08:00

Today, I was invited as a guest to an old friend's wedding... and honestly the feeling of being a guest than a planner in a wedding is not just different, but it is a privileged place to be in away from my daily role.
The wedding started off with a few hiccups, yes I can't help to put on my planner's hat. Sound technician was not doing the job well, video montage was replayed, music pieces for key items were played wrongly, dancers were not positioned on the right platform and ironically pastor's phone went ringing half way through his heartfelt preaching.
Yet despite all these little oversight, I would say this is one perfect wedding I ever attended that was filled with intimacy and touching moments.
I witnessed the most loving and sincere couple, their love was vividly seen and felt. Every speech was great from the Dads' speeches, to the bridesmaids, and to the couple, all was unplanned for, and yet everyone was so real. Honour was given generously to the family and the couple. I actually teared couple of times just listening to the speeches.
And to end off, we have a great song - "Two words" sung by a friend, a beautifully scripted poem read by the Bride's sister (whom I have seen her grown up since age 9), and a fun-filled , creatively scripted wedding video from the church youth. Every moment in the wedding was so candid, so real, so spontaneous, so intimate, and most of all, the presence of God was clearly felt in that wedding.
I went back encouraged, refreshed and told a friend of mine who was there as well.. When a wedding is beautiful, guests walk out that place, encouraged and touched and the memories of that day are held dear. Vice versa when a wedding loses that, it was just another event. I came back praying God, make all my weddings ooze out intimate and touching moments, amidst of all the creative settings. I seek more than a perfect setting that wow the guests, I want a wedding that reflects the true meaning of celebration and love. Amen & Amen

Whenever I see the photos, it makes my day...

2009-01-20T17:26:00.014+08:00

Today, one bride called me up, enquring about our services, and apparently she knew quite a few of our clients.. and it was strange to hear her commenting about last wedding, which I have yet to see any of the pictures. Only then I realised Kelvin Koh from Lighted Pixels has already posted the pictures on his blog.. and when I saw those detail shots, and the smiles of my couple... all these put a smile on my face...

Below are some of the details shot I borrowed from Kelvin Koh from Lighted Pixels. Kelvin, pardon me.. and you can find more about the other pictures from this link http://kelvinkoh.livejournal.com/79583.html

Thank you... my beloved brides.

2009-01-11T22:22:00.006+08:00

It took me a while to share what I am going thru in my last blog post.. After last week's new post, I was touched with unexpected kindness and gestures. An old florist of mine sent me a basket of lovely arrangement, the choice of flowers were the exact range of flowers I often love working with her..Thank you Jane, all these little thoughts mean a lot to me.

The week was filled with encouragements from my ex-brides and new brides... When Linda reminded me "I don't think God gave you your gift just so you can plan beautiful weddings. I think He meant for you to do greater things, one of which is to touch the lives of others whom you may otherwise never meet in your daily life. But through weddings, through your interaction with different people, you become a messenger..."

Yes, I am a life of His grace. My blog has always been my bouncing board for reflections and records of how the Lord has brought me through in my journey as a wedding planner. And yet at the same time, I am reminded as I am a blessing to others, my brides have also become a blessing to me. When a client is more than a deal closed; a wedding showcase presented... you are often God's gifts for me... Despite my blunt honesty of who I am, how I feel at this juncture of my life, you simply accept me as who I am, and stand by me..and I am grateful...

Beloved brides and friends, thank you for every moment you have shared and will share with me. It once again reminded me I am blessed, very blessed.. This verse came to my mind " We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose. "

An unexpected season...

2009-01-05T13:42:00.002+08:00

Have stopped blogging for a period of time... I believe many wondered. And mainly Dec has been an unexpected month for me. My granny passed on in Dec.. She was sent to hospital in the midst of 2 huge weddings setup for us. Even in the midst of her being critically ill, I have to remain strong and calm for the weddings of my clients in Dec, and even on the day of her last memorial night service, I was at another wedding. Within a week, she was gone, and to me, that was the most unexpected occurrence for the year end. I have never expected the grief that I would have been going thru this season. Christmas and New Year was painful to pass by.

I have not rested nor have the time to really grieve over the loss. In the midst of the grieve, we still had to remain happy to be the miracle worker for our clients. To the Chinese, it is not auspicious to talk about death in the midst of preparing a wedding. And as far as my clients, no one really knows about granny's death. In the midst of turning other's fantasy to reality, my heart sank deeper.. it is an irony I could remain strong and resilient as we planned the events. Demands for the weddings always grow intense near the day of the weddings... sometimes, you wanted to react to those unreasonable demands for many are results of paranoid behaviours. Though it's pardonable for couples to behave these ways (since it is their one and perfect day), but for you to remain sane in fulfilling those demands amidst the emotions within, I think it is a miracle.

And yet the last few weddings setup were one of my best works so far, esp the day when my granny was critically ill, and I was seeing one of my amazing transformations. My florist said to me, this is almost like Preston Bailey's impressions.. I couldn't smile.. because for that moment, it is no longer important, my beloved was critically ill..and nothing mattered then... all I want was a miracle for my granny. But it did not happen.

As much as we knew she's in Heaven... I know not when I will stop grieving.. it was the first time I actually detest my job... and may God help me...

This is life...

2008-12-07T00:07:00.005+08:00

This past 2 weeks was hectic for me. Recovered from the jet lag, planned a high profile wedding.. (but I must that was a great wedding and my clients were happy), had a series of food tasting, wedding rehearsals and now preparing for the upcoming wedding anniversary.
Throughout the journey, I witnessed joys of a loving couple, tension between couple and parents over minute wedding details, as well as the faithfulness of another who have decided to renew their wedding vows after 20 years of marriage...In the midst of all the events, and my daily duties as a planner, I got news that my Granny was sick and had to be admitted to hospital immediately.. part of me was burdened with my granny's conditions, the other side of me was managing my client's wedding joys, woes, expectations and details... And then I decided to tell myself, Hannah paused and breathe.. God is in charge..
I was reminded what Mindy Weiss once said in an article.. after thousands of dollars is spent on flowers, and even when the hurricane comes and blows them away.. just remembered God above is still in charge of our lives..

That is so true.. as much as I am a fairy godmother to many couples, but I am also a little child before my granny.. I learn to simply trust that all will be well.. Pastors in weddings always say what God puts together, no man can put a sunder.. and yes, what God has brought in union in any relationship, let no one dare to take away what He has in store for us.

It's a inspiring trip...

2008-11-24T15:55:00.009+08:00

I am back... Everyone was asking me, so how's the trip? It's one of the most inspiring one I ever had. I love Orange County, such an organised city, with one of the most friendly people I met in States. Even the custom officers greet you with a smile, you felt so safe in that place.

And of course, this conference in Newport Beach was quite different from the one I went last year. More couture, more inspiring and meeting with Colin Cowie was a great lifetime experience. I never expected such a meticulous and genius party planner, could be so down to earth and so gracious in his thoughts. I think that makes him stand out from the other celebrity planners. Every setup this time was more interesting than the previous one esp the luncheon with Colin.

Hearing his thoughts on what he thinks, he feels and how he creates bring me to appreciate life as a whole.. every part of him speaks about the kind of life and philosophy he holds dearly. If you want to know more about him, buy his book : Colin Cowie Chic. It's not about weddings, but it is about the lifestyle he upholds. Some may think he is extremely too obsessed with how he plans his life, but I felt that is what makes him excellent. I remembered one key note he reminded me from Wizard of Oz. A heart is not judged by how much you love, but how much you are loved by others. So true, isn't it.

On an interesting note, this Sun (after so many weeks away from church), I heard Pastor preaching the same thing : Excel in whatever you do, and if you want to excel, you have to discipline yourself to do what you don't like to do, to able to enjoy the very things you love to do. And one of such is being meticulous and being discipline to excel in every details. What an interesting match to what Colin has spoken.

I got to visit San Francisco as well.. visited the Fisherman's Wharf, the South Bay, which is the San Francisco Peninsula, beautiful homes, golf courses, and the nature, and one of the richest places in States. Have fun in these pictures.

Away in States...

2008-11-06T02:11:00.003+08:00

In couple of hours, I will be on the plane heading to Newport Beach for an annual wedding planner conference. This time, our special speaker is Colin Cowie, the celebrity planner who plans all Oprah's parties.. can't wait to meet him.. and can't wait to give myself a break for the day to day hectic schedules..was told this time, besides myself, there will be couple of Singaporean planners coming along, will be great to meet everyone..

Though part of me can't wait to leave Singapore, the only part of me worries about my granny at home. Just visited her, and was more comforted. She had a fall on Sun and hit her head. She looks better now, as she descibed her fall, she could still be smiling and her expressions were so innocent. I could not help but smiled at her. My granny is always such an encouragement, I know why I got my endurance spirit from. Oh God, pls take care of her... and pals out there, pray along with me..

Another great wedding....

2008-11-03T01:28:00.004+08:00

I just came back from a wedding, and as usual.. after a wedding, I always seem to have a surge of energy within me, it must be rubbed off from the excitement from the wedding. Tonight's wedding is another great wedding for me.

I have a British-Singaporean wedding. A British groom with great intelligence and precision and a Singaporean bride who is down to earth and very generous. My joy as a planner is often I get to see the extreme differences of my couple, and yet at the end of the day, I witnessed their love and how it has transformed both of their lives.. and today was another such example. The groom said his speech in Mandarin, sang a Mandarin song to the bride and her guests, and finally had non-stop "Yam Seng" with all his guests... everyone was simply having fun.

The event started with expectations of accuracy and precision. I often know before a ceremony, every one somehow looks tensed because I suppose everyone wants to ensure all goes as planned. The rain came twice during the setup. We decorated the perimeter of the Palm Gardens fountain at Raffles Hotel, everything was beautiful and the rained poured.. Actually we are quite used to that, somehow rain does appear in weddings esp the unpredictable weather in Singapore, but often it does stop at the right time. True enough, it stopped half a hour before the wedding ceremony began.

And then everything after that was a breeze.. because when you know even Heaven was good to this pair, all would be well for the day. I enjoyed every minute in this event. The Chinese crowd had so much fun in the Yam Seng sessions, the band was great, and most of all, everyone was so spontaneous.. I was surprised when the mother of the bride came to me during dessert course, and asked if they could sing some songs. Sure, why not..

Often in local weddings, you never get to see Chinese crowd step to the dance floor voluntary.. but this wedding, I saw that.. Aunt sang her numbers, and relatives supported her by joining her in the dance floor.. I saw the groom coming to me smiling "I didn't expected this, from Yam Seng to Karaoke.. it's amazing, but this is great.. everyone has fun, thank you so much for making this possible..."

Sometimes I do hear comments : weddings can be boring... I differ from that thought.. weddings are intimate, spontaneous and a joy to remember, it's all about how real you want it to be.. and today, I witnessed another real wedding...I just love my job. Thank you God for once again making me feel great about my role.

Our recent creations..

2008-10-31T23:51:00.015+08:00

Yes.. have been so busy with the past weddings in Oct.. and every one is so beautiful..

In fact, our weddings from July to Oct, most of the them are inter-racial marriages, and it is so pretty to witness the various traditions and cultures..

My team has fun managing the projects, and I have fun conceptualising and creating each of the designs. And together with our floral partners, they complete what we have envisioned.. "Beautiful Weddings". Enjoy our creations!

Blessed is the man...

2008-10-13T00:30:00.003+08:00

Sat and Sun news were bad.. the financial institutions are in trouble, Singapore govt declaring we are now in a technical recession.. everything looks gloomy.
And even at church, we continued to pray for the economy and the nations..

However, one thing remains... our hope is in the Lord. Somehow in the midst of all these uncertainties, everything looks so bleak.. then I was reminded of my business, how it was started.. and how He has provided, I told myself, Hann, there is hope.. God will be faithful as He has been faithful.

Pastor came to me and asked, so how's your business, has the recent poor economy affected yours too.. I pondered a while to answer that.. Honestly, it should have.. but then when I looked at the recent figures, it doesn't seem to be. I did receive many calls and applicants asking for a job, we did not have as many enquiries, so theoretically it is worrying... but somehow I knew in my heart, something is happening.. I can't tell what it is.. but I know it will be a time of testing, a time of strengthening, a time where the fittest will survive..

So as I was writing down and drawing my thoughts.. I draw a tree with bed of roses by the sea (so calm that the yacht floats gently) and the verse came to my mind : Jeremiah 17 : 7-8. and just as I was drawing as I was listening to Pastor's preaching.. Amazing, he read out the same verse in my mind :

But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."

Our new online wedding store is launched!!

2008-10-07T21:27:00.003+08:00

Dear Customers and Friends,

Today, we launch our new wedding online store. I have always dreamt to go back to my retail roots, and finally today is the day...
As a wedding planner, I am always looking for new ideas, interesting supplies, but there's indeed limitations in local markets, so in the past 5 years, we have customised and created various supplies and stationery for my couples. Many of these little touches are still our treasured creations. And I was just thinking : why not share our products with brides out there, instead of keeping to ourselves.

Besides the products we have created, we also carry some of the internationally established brands from stationery to wedding favours, do take a look at the products we have prepared for you, log on to www.heavens-gift.com/shop.htm for both US and local ranges, or simply go directly to www.heavens-gift.com/store for products we carry in our local store. I hope you will find something interesting and apt for your bridal party as well as for your guests, allowing these little touches to be your ambassadors of good taste for all.

What a day!!! Myself exposed.

2008-10-07T00:08:00.005+08:00

Today, I celebrated my bday with my family in the zoo... yes, it was quite an unexpected experience.. but my sis suggested, "why not, it's a family place."So I woke up early, charged my videocam, and off I went to fetch my granny, and decided to treat my family to the zoo.

Honestly, I actually enjoyed it, despite the drizzle, we went with our raincoat and saw the beauty of nature and creations. Somehow, zoo brought back many heart warming feelings about family. I thought the day went off as planned, perfect... and after fetching my family back, I headed for my church meeting. And my day ended disturbed.. I was caught off guard, not expecting the fact my members' absence to a meeting could bring so much emotions... I somehow discovered a lot more about myself.. and often such moments are those you hardly want to confess.. and for once, I decided to do it on the blog, maybe it's the best confrontation I can have at this moment.

My life has been surrounded by my family, my business and my church life.. these 3 areas have almost occupied my entired time in a day... I almost poured out as much as I can trying to juggle all these.. Since young, I was always taught to give, impart and hopefully during my life journey, I get to see lives transformed under my leadership and ministry... and honestly besides desiring a happy family, my next dream is too see lives transformed.

Yet past 2 days, I got to see some behaviours and attitudes in the people I led in ministry.. and my heart ached. Have people become so self absorbed, so self centered.. that everything they do is more for themselves, their convenience, their benefits and not one out of passion and commitment... As I evaluated my ministry, I too reflected on myself.. have I brought up a group of people that are seemingly so talented.. but yet the hearts are so self absorbed.... what has gone wrong... I never desire to be a leader, just a simple woman that can get to do things she loves.. and often, I am put in positions or limelight more than I have wanted. I thank the Lord for the grace to be in those limelights.. but sometimes I am equally frustrated with those exposures.

I messaged my best friend today and asked for prayer.. and I knew what would be the reply.. Don't worry Hann, you will come out of it.. I know you can. Yes, I will and I can.. that's the image everyone thinks of me when they see Hannah.. but what they have not seen, is the warrior up there is also a child within... at the end of today, I was reminded about my Lord, Jesus Christ. He was bruised, beaten and criticised by the very people He loves... and despite all, He still gives..and when I compared my current situations and what He has done.. I am ashamed.. and I can only pray : Lord, make me to be more like you.. and help me to know my end.. this breath of mine is made worthwhile by the very grace of you and you alone...

Reminisce my past 4.5 years

2008-09-21T00:28:00.005+08:00

It's strange.. last night I could not sleep... have been busy preparing for my online shop as well as the marketing activities for 2009.. and all of a sudden, the flash back memories of where I have begun 4 and 1/2 years ago appeared so vividly before my mind...

I remembered when I first started, I was a one man company. Always believed then I needed a showroom, a proper office, instead of following the rest just working from home.. Despite the caution of overheads, I followed my heart, because to me, I wanted a place where I could make my customers feel cosy at home, where the wedding ideas could be inspired from. Those days, I did everything from concepts, to designing to packaging and even to arranging the flowers, with the assistance of my part timers. That one man journey lasted for about 1.5 yr. Eventually, I built a team, and moved from a small service office, to now a little homely attic where many love.. I am amazed myself. I am grateful for all that He has given.

My assistant asked me today in one of our training, how did you start, were the wedding creations as pretty then. I laughed. In fact, if I really looked back, I was very fortunate. My first few couples' weddings I have planned were all inter-racial or expatriate weddings. I did not look for them, but they found me through my website. And just thru a simple phone call away, I was engaged by mere trust. My couples have given me the portfolio I could not have imagined today. From the very beginning, I met couples that were different, the weddings I planned have always been fun, spontaneous and intimate because of the couples I have. I have thus been inspired to make weddings the same for all my other couples.

Everyone might have thought that Hannah has started the business easy, having all these amazing couples. Yet what they did not see was the countless efforts I strive to make every wedding different. I was eager to learn, to create, I was looking for something different in each wedding, simply because I believe every wedding is a reflection of every couple I have.. and I want to make the wedding uniquely theirs, as much as I want it to reflect the creative part of Heaven's Gift. And last night all the flash back, just made me pause to thank God for all that He has done.

Today, as I was training my team, I learnt to share the experiences, to train a team that will have integrity in what they do, to be humble to serve, and to always be passionate to learn and create. Looking back, every time when I am in the office, I have not stopped working on something.. even at home, my mind is clicking.. but these days, I also learn that a rested mind will go a long way.. and that's something I have to remind myself and everyone I meet... work hard, play hard, and learn to rest as much... The journey is long.. but the rewards of discovery are many... so if you want to explore and step into the adventures of future, learn to take time and reminisce the moments... Someone up there wants to talk to you so that you can run as far as you desire to.

Bali... a magical place

2008-09-17T20:17:00.010+08:00

Just came back from Bali, and it has been a fruitful trip. In the past, I would feel the place was too religious and contrary to my faith. Yet these past few years of frequent visits, I grow to love this place. It is filled with beautiful people and amazing wonders. Below are some pictures I have taken over the years.
Now I understand why so many couples love to get married here. And Heaven's Gift will be launching Bali wedding packages for couples who simply want a simple intimate, no fuss destination wedding. And we make it affordable for you.

One change I do notice tho, 10 yrs ago, Bali was a place for the couples, the singles.. to date, Bali has become a family place. It was interesting to see couples bringing their children even their parents and rent a villa to stay. A great place for family retreat. I am considering for mine too..

I simply love Balinese kids... They are so lovely

It's time to relax, and away from the busy citylife

I am heading off to Bali...

2008-09-07T22:46:00.002+08:00

I have been running back to back for weddings (too many last min weddings these days).. and still trying to keep my schedule of children worship ministry and my cell ministry.. inevitably I have not rested much these past 1 month...

Nevertheless, at the end of each wedding, when I received the thank you notes from my couples and esp from their parents, I know all has been well. It is always interesting to see the change from the first time I meet the parents in food tastings to the actual date of the weddings.. From their initial moments of uncertainty - "why my children want to hire a stranger as the planner" to the final realisation of the beautiful wedding details and moments shown on that day. This is something I am proud to be able to witness.

I just know I need to put my body to rest.. This week I will be in Bali to do some site visit and concept creations for a wedding... and I am really hope I get to slow down and get some time off..
Singapore life is becoming more and more hectic... and if we are not careful, we will be swept by the crazy pace, and forgetting to tell ourselves - Be healthy, and be happy, remember to take time to spend with your loved ones... and I am reminded : tomorrow, I must pay my granny a visit. oh Hannah.. you have so much to do...you really need to slow down.

An interesting twist

2008-09-03T21:36:00.015+08:00

We took some pictures of our last Safari wedding in Raffles Hotel.. yes, it was an interesting theme with a twist, no one expected that.. the final settings were better than what we even have expected.

The cutie beanies we have for our guests.. I just love the baby elephant...

The leafy wedding cake

An unexpected email from my bride....

2008-08-18T23:15:00.013+08:00

I was just checking email on my off day.. and I received an unexpected email that ends my today with great joy...

"Hannah...I've been looking at the wedding slideshow that Kuang made for us over and over again. I am reliving the wedding days. It has not been that long ago...just over a month...but I am already nostalgic. Looking at the pictures, some of the stress of the day comes back and so does the feeling of joy and fun we had throughout the events. It is only now sinking in - SO MANY people took the time to come to our wedding and give us their wishes. We are truly blessed. And the wedding would not have been possible without all your effort and commitment. It would have been impossible to find someone else to manage the wedding better than you did. I feel like getting married to Lois all over again. If that does happen, it goes without saying, you will be our wedding planner. :)" Nisha (my bride from the Indian wedding I planned this July)

It is so strange, this morning, her aunt just called me to assist one of the relatives for the coming Sat wedding requesting help, and now receiving an email from Nisha, did bring such joy that ends my today perfectly well...

Now looking back, I am so glad I took up this wedding...It was my first Indian wedding, and it changed my perspective of Indian weddings far from what I have been hearing. I heard so much horror stories from the industry about planning Indian weddings - poor payments, lots of demands, unfriendly relations etc etc.. yet my first Indian wedding has been a blessing to me...

I still remembered when Nisha first came to me, she was panicking with the last minutes details she had to look into it, and she never stopped sharing how much she loved our works.. I could still recalled telling her, can I meet your family first, to see what they are looking for.. (behind my mind, I was cautious having heard so much stories). Eventually, I took up the wedding, trusting that God has a purpose for me for every event. And I have never met such a generous family, who spent time, thoughts and efforts to ensure all the guests were well taken care of, from their accommodation, to transportation, to all special F&B arrangements (even their day to day diet, not forgetting an Indian wedding lasts a week), to even organising daily islands trips for all the overseas guests. I am just amazed.

The family trusted us more than I could ever imagined... I still remembered couple of times, Nisha uncle actually told his PA and some suppliers "You need to be able to work with our planner, Hannah. If she's not comfortable, we will review the arrangement. At the end of the day, she is the one directing the event" (I paraphrased the last sentence).

Honestly, to be able to receive such approval is an unexpected grace that the family has shown me. I don't claim to be the planner that knows it all, yet to be given such freedom and trust enables my team and I to express our works even more beautifully than what we can think of..We created an Indian wedding with a modern European twist. I suppose faith begets faith.. When someone trust you, you somehow shine under those wings of love. Once again, I love what I can get to do : Turning someone's dream into a reality...through the grace of my couples and by my beloved Father in Heaven.

P.S. Nisha & Lois, allow me to share your beautiful moments..

My brides, my friends....

2008-08-13T21:37:00.003+08:00

Today, I received a small package from the mail, and when I opened up and saw the Hello Kitty stickers, I smiled, it was from one of my ex-brides, Nicole from Dec 07. She just started her hobby in accessories making, and she made a pair of ear rings for me... When I saw the way it was crafted, the colours, I was touched. Nicole has known me enough to create something I like.. Simple and Elegant. It was definitely something I would love to wear... and strangely ever since I designed her wedding, from someone who doesn't like Hello Kitty, I actually bought a Hello Kitty doll for myself from Japan. Amazing, isn't it...Somehow, over these past years, my brides have become my friends, and an influence to me as well.

As a planner, I am privileged to get close to the bride's dreams, her thoughts and sometimes her private life. And often, these relationships complete my role as a planner. Though I am a planner that consistently seek for creative ideas, unique setup, and beautiful details... it is not the creative works that made my day.. it was the friendship I have received over the years that help me to believe in what I do.

Last Mon, I had lunch with another bride, we were sharing and exchanging our thoughts.. I then realised I opened up so much about my life that I almost forgot I am the consultant :) Life is amazing, it's the people you meet and befriend that makes you who you are. And I am one of such for sure... I was talking to Hari and he was right to remind me : We may at times wonder why we meet certain clients... yet at the same time, when we received clients that are so unexpected, so thoughtful, so gracious... they do seize our wondering.. We thank God, we have the best job, to do what we love and what we believe in... and to even be blessed with friends in the midst of it, it was a precious gift from God.

Wedding planners in Singapore

2008-08-05T23:42:00.002+08:00

Last Thursday, there was an article about Singapore wedding planners. Somehow the journalist has written in an angle that made all the planners sound so candid.. twisted in her own angle of writing.. Nevertheless, I was also happy to see the faces that were appeared in the papers.
Most of them have become a friend and partner with us over the years. And to able to see all your partners gain a standing in this market makes you feel the industry has become more and more respected.

In the past, you won't get to hear a wedding planner promoting another... Everyone was cautious of everyone.. and yet the last 1-2 years, things have begun to change.. a group of us have realised each of us planner is different and unique, and we attract our own range of clienteles.
And instead of hiding from one another, we began to realise industry sharing is a great way of growth for each one of us, at the same time it is a motivation to see this industry grown to be more professional and respectable by many. The other good thing is our couples get to understand our roles better, and that helps us to serve them better and more effectively in accordance to the way wedding planning should be.

I was really happy.. today, when I received an email from Kim sharing some warning of scam email.. it was comforting.. because we no longer see ourselves as industry enemies.. but rather partners that will further motivate one another to grow and share..
I strongly believe that this will be the way the wedding industry will move towards in the coming future. And may the wedding planners path the way...

Japan - a land of wonders

2008-07-30T21:52:00.012+08:00

I am back, refreshed and feeling a bit tour-sick(if there is such word) from Hokkaido... Not sick of tour, but rather I wish I am on a tour again..
This trip to Japan was quite different from the previous, I got to discover the natural beauty of Hokkaido, enjoying every bit of being a tourist, not sourcing for wedding products, simply enjoying the luxury of being a tourist. You get to wine, dine and be merry.

And in the mist of enjoyment, the Japanese creativity and attributes does inspire me.

So what have I learnt from this amazing land, amazing people :
1. Nature is a true beauty and an unimaginative creation. I saw the growth of spa resorts at the valley of the active Volcanoes. Despite the volcanoes can explode, human beings seem to get used to that, and leverage on such high risk resources. Opportunities vs risk - I can now see the rationale...

2. Japanese are a breed of creative genius. A simple wild flower like Lavender is converted into vast rangeof beauty products, beverages, yummy lavender ice-creams, household items etc etc...

3. This is a land that consistently work to serve the consumer. Just as in the last visit, I am always amazed at some these inventions : warm seated toilet bowls with great functions; highways built with sound proof high walls to reduce noise pollution to the nearby housing estates; wide range of awesome toys, music boxes minatures, loads of pretty lavish sweet goodies that can turn a food market to a food garden, more than one can imagine..

4. Genuine, authentic products... I love this, no more pirated products, no imitation goods, everything you see is authentic and true. You don't have to be worried about getting the best bargains, because everything is the same.. fair, and the only difference is the element of creativity and innovations..

In many ways, I love Japan, particularly Hokkaido.. and the smiles you get from the Japanese promoters always make your day.. so much we can learn from them... They are a true inspirations..

I am having my annual break

2008-07-18T03:16:00.003+08:00

It's past 3am, and I am still working... some last min instructions and follow up before I head off for my annual break... I will be away only for 10 days in Japan (it seems long, but actually not), and I really hope I do not have to bring my laptop(in the end I still bring my mini Vaio just in case).. have been working very hard the first half of year, and felt I needed to go away before I continue for the next half of year...
Always believe a refreshed soul and mind goes a long way..
So in case I don't reply to your email, rest assured all will still be well... and Hannah will come back more inspired and refreshed to create more beautiful weddings and moments...See you after 28 Jul... God bless.

Everything is possible!

2008-07-12T23:50:00.004+08:00

Last night wedding was awesome. I was aware the setup was huge when I designed it.. but never have I expected the 2 hour turn around was truly challenging... I wanted to create a 7.5m square structure of 4m height to build it like a huge Indian Mandap (where live band is positioned at the main stage, and guests dancing within the Mandap) - with details that have a twist between modern European design and Indian detailing..

We had the ballroom at 5.30pm, everyone from lightings, sound, floral, band .. and we have David Gomez Quartet, so all expectations of quality details were high...When the last min clocked in i.e. 8pm.. all was up, one last step - photography of the details.. and I have to say the atmosphere was intense... last instructions for lightings and ok, all ready, the banquet door has to be opened.. when guests walked in and started taking their cameras out to take the stage and setup.. I was happy, once again, we made it for the setup we wanted..
I did panic when I saw the truss erected and seemingly leaning forward to the hotel chandeliers. Everyone held their breath.. and once again, my team has not disappointed me. Thank you guys for all the hard work. Even Tama Goh turned to me and said "It's amazing to see such a setup in such a short turnaround time"... and I have to say "Tama, thanks for rolling up yr sleeves and gave us a hand. I did not expect to see him smiling as he assisted in supporting the ladder for my floral team. After all, he's a celebrity himself. But I suppose everyone was united to see a setup completed as envisioned...

When the host, Uncle of bride came to me and said "Hannah, I have to say, looking from the two wedding setup this week, I saw yr strengths and the way you conceptualise - the word is "Understated Elegance", not loud nor tacky, that's your talent as a wedding planner. I was honoured to receive this new compliment: Yes, that is always what I wanted for all my weddings and parties... and hearing those words, once again brings me comfort and assurance in all the steps I have taken in creating the weddings I have envisioned for each bride.

The Almighty One reigns !

2008-07-11T09:47:00.005+08:00

Wednesday Indian wedding ceremony was great.. Though I have to say, this short statement has travelled through much thoughts and efforts both from Planner and Host's point of view. My bride's granny felt and fractured her hip, and she was sent to A & E early in the morning.. while the rest were preparing for the wedding.. Yes, it was a period of intense emotions.

As a planner, I can't do much to ease their anxiety at home.. all I want to do is to pray for her granny just as I have prayed for mine (my granny fell and her spine bone suffered compressed fractured, took her almost 6 months to have her walked properly without pain, so I knew the pain having seen her endured thru). And I have to say, I do love this bride.. Nisha is so cheery and so assuring all the time.. that I just want all to go best for her..

And of course, the day started well, my team could build the tentage, set the stage, and set the dining, stalls and kitchen area before caterer coming in to setup the dishes. Yes, it's one wedding where we have live kitchen, food stalls like a little carnival. It was great fun, seeing the moments pass by.. with the final touches from the floral team.. and finally waiting for the arrival of the guests. Interesting, when all was done, it started to drizzle.. and my heart wondered for a while. Lord, you did say today would be another great wedding... hmmm... I decided to just be still...
Finally when the guests come, the rain stopped.

Kuang, the photographer came to me after the ceremony shots was over and said"Hannah, tonight's day light is awesome, one of the best.. look at the pictures.. " He was happy that he could have such great lightings... and I was smiling and thanking God... now God I know why the rain. For normal day, it will be sunny, glaring and humid.. but You set the time, the weather, and even the moments for us to able to capture it with mere human hands.. and truly the Almighty One reigns. My prayer : You will reign in this family.

Eve of each wedding

2008-07-09T00:36:00.004+08:00

This week, I have 3 celebration events for a couple. You would have guessed it, it is an Indian wedding. In some ways, I could say it is my first traditional Indian wedding that I am planning. or should I say not that traditional.. esp it is still an Inter-racial marriage of an Indian bride and a French groom..
This wedding has enabled to see how knitted Indian families can be. Last night, we had the Mehndi & Sangeet, I hardly see the crowd eat, but everyone was dancing and partying till 2am.. the friends and relatives offered dance items and special dedication as a blessing for the couple.. it was colourful.. Tomorrow is the wedding ceremony where couple will be prayed for in a Mandap. It will be interesting, my first witness of an Indian ceremony.

Yes, you must be wondering why am I still up late writing my blog... ya, that's always happen on eve of a wedding. It was not stress, not last min work (as all have been settled, my colleagues are a great when comes to completion of work). I never understand why.. the eve of a wedding, my energy level is extremely high... I will be checking websites, blog.. or reviewing my marketing plans... haha.. ya I have to agreed that I am a workaholic..

Or maybe after all the planning... you left only one area you know you can't plan - that is the Mother nature... and often I spend quite some time on bed just talking to God above... Lord pls help me to believe that tomorrow's another great day you will provide : cool wind, no rain.. and great weather... esp when it is another outdoor wedding, and I took a step of faith not to erect any tentage, and rely on existing shelter alone...
Then as I was reading my blog.. when I saw the text I wrote for my own profile and it was a reminder :
"Every wedding is a dream fulfilled, every wedding is a gift from Heaven"
So Father, I simply trust this wedding in Yr great hands... You will great the desires of my heart.

How to manage your dream wedding vs the wedding obligations

2008-07-02T22:13:00.008+08:00

2 days ago, I met up with one of my couples for 2009 to walk thru the concept. The meeting was interesting, before I even got to share the concepts I have personalised for them, they were sharing all the concerns they have to manage from families' expectations, requests, to weddings traditions etc, and all that literally drained them out.
I was sad when the groom said "It is becoming so different from what we have envisioned in our wedding, I can't wait to get it over having to manage so much obligations." (paraphrased) It was only after the concept was shared, I finally could see their eyes lighten up, and suddenly hope arises, there is still something to look forward in a wedding.

And such emotions are apparently quite common in Asian families. Or should I say in all families. Marriage is never a two person affair, likewise wedding is never a two person celebration. It is a family affair, a gathering of the loved ones and friends whom you love to share your celebration with . No wonder, we are stressed, simply because we do not want to disappoint those whom we love.

So how do we manage family traditions, expectations vs what we desire in our wedding. I will share my two cents worth in this area :
Before you even start planning for your wedding, ask yourself the following questions :

To what extent will you involve your family in the planning, i.e. from wedding budget, wedding designs, wedding traditions, wedding program etc?
Other than you and your partner, who will be the people you want to seek counsel from for your wedding ?
At the end of the day, how much of your guests' comments are going to affect you, or rather how much do you want that to affect you.

The above questions sound rhetorical, yet the more certain your answers are to those questions, the better you can to manage your fear, your expectations as well as those of your family.

To put it simply, if I decide that my parents are the ones I trust to seek council from in my wedding, then I will tell myself, whatever they advise me of, I will not allowed myself to be uptight in their final decisions, simply because I trust them. And how much I am allowing them to be involved, will be the same amount of grace I am extending to them. At the end of the day, I will choose to be happy, contented and not be affected by any, other than those I have entrusted my faith in, simply because it is my wedding - a celebration of our joy, and the joy of my loved ones. The same applies if you decide otherwise.

At the end of the day, I will reiterate what I always learn : Wedding is a reflection of the host... how it will begin, and end is a true reflection who the host is and expects of.

Knowing your couple..

2008-06-19T21:27:00.006+08:00

Have been very busy these past few weeks, it's the month where concepts are created, and couples flew in every week to discuss what we have developed for them. I always love such meetings, every time when a proposed concept is shared, I could see the smiles and excitement my couples begin to have as they envision for their upcoming wedding. That's how every couple should feel abt their wedding.

I met up a bride from Perth today, and I remembered her groom asking me over an email, "Hannah, do you have enough information about me to help you to conceptualise, since I have not shared much during the last interview..." I assured him yes I think I know both of you well, don't worry. And today's concept was another smooth sailing experience.. my bride just loved the proposed details, and it was almost I have known her for some time. If the groom is here, I could even be certain, we can confirm all details despite the wedding is 4 months away.

To me a wedding is a reflection of the couple... their love story, and their unique experience they are going to share with many, tho it is also a reflection of the planner. My joy as well as my challenge is how much do I strive to know my couple.. and how much our creations further reflect that. My colleague often ask me how do you ever know what they want? I don't really know how to reply that.. all I knew is I never stop dreaming, I never stop inspiring the fantasy within them...and I've learnt to never doubt my judgment and my creativity, but be confident that God has given me enough talents to do the job I have been placed to do... Like what my mentor always remind me : Love your job, and love life, and let your work be a reflection of the life that you live...

The launch of our new website....

2008-06-03T18:00:00.007+08:00

Finally, after 5 months of on and off working on the web in the midst of all the weddings, we finally launched our new website.. It is strange, the first person that check our website is not my partner, supplier or friend.. rather my brides..

Felicia, one of my earliest bride in 2005 : Hey Hannah, saw yr web, happy 2 C yr biz has grown and God is blessing you.. I refered a few friends to your website:)

My recent brides, Linda commented : Love the feel of your new website. Feels even more pro and content-rich now, and the online shop is a great addition! Faith : Hey, saw your website. It's beautiful and yr interview.. You look really glorious.

Can't deny all these little comments made my day. We uploaded the site on last Sun(just 2 days ago), I could not wait any further.. have been directing my designer for so long from overall concept, to personally selecting the backdrop design and colours, to the content writeup, what pix to fit into which section, whose wedding to showcase, how to ensure navigation is user friendly etc etc .. and finally I decided ok.. enough of checking and editing, let's just launch it.

Sometimes I think it is more difficult to create your own designs than creating others.. I ended up becoming a perfectionist... and poor Eugene, he's patient with me. I think I eventually taught him how to be feminine from someone who has never created a wedding nor lady's portal to one who's eventually understood my language and my thoughts. Thanks Eugene, you are a star.

I suppose the change from the former site to this site, shows how Hannah has evolved as a wedding planner and designer. Some may like the new site, some may not... nevertheless it is true, the new site shows how I have grown as a planner, an artist as well as an entrepreneur. And at the end of the day, I still want to remember who has helped me thus far.. The Faithful one above... Thank You Lord.

My joys & woes as a wedding planner...

2008-05-29T23:24:00.007+08:00

These few days have been raining unexpectedly almost like a thunderstorm. And I will be having an semi outdoor wedding in couple of hours. Tomorrow's wedding is for a charming British couple who has a great sense of humour and whom I have enjoyed working with greatly. I woke up early this morning after hearing the thunders, and I was praying real hard "Oh God, pls don't let it rain, my poor lighting guy are climbing up the trees to hang up fairy lights for tomorrow's wedding. And beside, this couple is so so so sweet... early today, I went down to look at the setup, and as usual, my vendors and partners were so supportive despite the rain, the ants on the trees and the slippery grounds. They waited for my approval before they could call a day off.

That's why I always tell my couple : Pls trust us, Hannah is more meticulous than what you can imagine.. but often I learn to give my partners space.. after all, everyone wants to be happy doing a job. My joy as a planner is I get to create interesting weddings, and I am supported with tremendous gracious and generous suppliers who have become valuable partners. If you ask any of my suppliers, they will tell you Hannah knows what she is doing, and she is precise to what she asks.
On the other hand, as an artist, I do often get weary when I have to justify to my couple of my vendor selections, why I insist the way I approach in my planning, how I have envisioned the end product to be (despite they can't feel it for the moment).. and patiently waiting to the event day where all finally get to see what I have envisioned. The journey is often painful.. and every time, this long journey forces me to eventually decide whose wedding I want to plan . I know it may sound obnoxious.. but that's my woes as a planner.

I suppose every artist has his or her fair share of joys and woes.. and I just have to keep telling myself.. let the joy of creating beautiful weddings override all my woes. To me, a wedding reflects who my couple is, as well as how much Hannah and team have enjoyed in that wedding. I will say to all who wants to consider engaging a wedding planner, a designer, or a photographer etc for their wedding... do trust the people whom you have selected.. a true artist takes pride in showcasing his /her works, and desires to see his clients happy in receiving it.
Ok, enough thoughts for today... when I look up to Heaven, I find a new strength to press on..

These pictures make my day!!

2008-05-21T21:42:00.006+08:00

Ead dropped by today to pass me some pictures, and a simple cute remark he made (I paraphrased) "Hey, you designed a big wedding last week, shot by KC... how come I do not get to shoot such setup, so jealous...."

Sorry Ead, photographers are chosen by couples.. but I am certain you are in my preferred list of photographers.. so don't worry, you will get that opportunity...

I went quickly to check on the pictures taken by KC in his blog... and I have to say, those pictures made my day. And to large extent, I do love details shot.. and contrary to what local photographers' feel, details shot does further show the capabilities of one photographer from another..Billions of dollars are spent globally on good wedding details and lots of magazines and editorial publishers spent time to search for these... Besides, couple spent so much on these, which separate their wedding from another.

I will conclude, whether it is detail or people shots, all these make up a beautiful wedding, so fair share of emphasis should be put on it.. my 2 cents worth.

Enjoy these pictures from KC from Grey Matters http://greymatterphotography.blogspot.com/2008/05/details.html

Sick but happy...

2008-05-15T00:50:00.011+08:00

Finally I regained my voice. Have been sick for almost 2 weeks. Just had one huge wedding setup last Sat.. one wedding which I could not wait to see it expressed to the fullest according to what I have envisioned. (Tell you more once the pictures are ready)

The long hours of staying awake for the setup did make me wonder how did I make it through each event. I can only thank God I have great partners, and team to keep the dream going. I totally lost my voice after that wedding.. but it was one setup that urges me to create another wedding of such scale almost immediately. My only regret was I did not get to take some posed shots of my team with the Cherry Blossom Trees..yes, yes..I do love to pose with my details. :)

It was such a joy to see guests taking pictures again and again with each of the details..I laughed, somehow the Cherry Blossom Tree created on stage glowed so beautifully. I really wished I could bring that stage back home. Thanks much to Brenda & team from Fiore Dorato and my lightings crew who supported me to deliver the concept so perfectly. I can't wait to show you a glimpse of it, so here's one poor shot taken by me. Look out for more abt this wedding in my upcoming website.

I am glad my voice is back. Am invited to do a talk with the Ngee Ann Poly tomorrow... seems so much on my plates.. but I know all will be well.

The Garden Wedding..

2008-05-07T23:58:00.003+08:00

Saw the pictures from Ead, and love the shots. He's definitely getting better and better...
and this was one wedding, where concept was thought 8 months prior to the wedding, and it was one wedding I can't wait to see my concept fully developed into deliverables.
Cookies corner, dining under the tree.. and most of all, a celebration that God is remembered thru out the wedding...
So enjoy these shots taken by Ead :
Couple : Shuming & Edmund
Venue : Shangri-la

http://eadwine.livejournal.com/2008/05/07/

Love is in the air

2008-05-03T23:35:00.006+08:00

I just got the pictures for the last Garden Wedding at Shang, imagine dining under the trees of lilies. . can't wait to show all of you more of the upcoming wedding designs, look out for my new website..

Here's a peep at it... Shuming & Edmund smiling beautifully at each other. There's truly love in the air, at the end of the day, that's what I long to see at each wedding... the love my couple has with each other, and the joy they shared under our creations..

The true meaning of wedding...

2008-05-02T21:32:00.006+08:00

Yesterday was labour day, and I was planning for the wedding of Keon & Faith. I have to say I am very blessed planning the wedding. They came to me 7 weeks before their wedding, wanting something different and Keon was sweet, he granted Faith's desire to get a wedding planner, tho to them, having such a large group of church friends who can assist, getting a planner is unthought of for many.. but I am glad they did. Faith is always so trusting, and allowing me to do what I thought best reflected both of them. Despite all the comments they could get from their friends, they trusted their planner. And the more they do that, the more I want to ensure they have the best for their wedding. Finally, when I saw their smiles esp Faith's as she marched into the ballroom, and how happy and relaxed they were, I rejoiced. When she held my hand and said, "Hannah, thank you.. I really loved what was created...", "It's my pleasure.." I replied and I meant every single word.

It was also one wedding that I actually teared when I heard Keon's speech. He allowed me to realise how appreciative we should be to God, to our family as well as people around us. We may want the best aesthetics for a wedding, we may want everyone to wow at the decor, or the special details we created for our guests.. but ultimately what touches the guests' hearts is the essence of celebration. Wedding is all about how a couple has found each other, it's all about how God has orchestrated the union of one man and one woman, so differently but so matched for each other. It's about celebrating the union with yr loved ones, it's about appreciating people whom you love and whom you want to rejoice with. Finally, wedding is a celebration, not a showcase, once again, this thought echoes so much deeper in my mind..

I just love cookies & candies

2008-04-15T23:37:00.004+08:00

Just got this picture from Eng Hong from39east.

I am in the current craze for creating cookies and candies corners, or rather I was.

Something I felt guests will enjoy and love the thrill of rekindling their love for old time favourites. Have done 3 of such concepts, but 3 very different feel... so when all the pictures are out.. you will get a glimpse of it. All these are so unique and it challenges me to make every one of them so different, and each concept that reflects my couple.

My colleague asked, so are we having cookies corner again for June weddings.. I said, no more, it's time to move on, because I just like the thrill to do something different and be the first to do so in Singapore, and I am certain it's time to move on, good things are treasured when they are limited.

And this is my first creation for Joelle & Jos wedding - 1920s vintage charm

I have the best PR Director...

2008-04-13T21:21:00.012+08:00

Last week passed me by so fast. Was busy preparing a wedding for 12 April (that was yesterday). Imagine having yr dinner under the trees in Shang Island Ballroom. can't wait to see the pictures..

Ok I was deviating from what I wanted to share. I received an email from Business Times, they wanted to interview me regarding wedding trends in Singapore. Last wed, I had my interview, and was noted that I was the last planner to be interviewed. As usual, I was simply myself enjoying the interview process, tho I must admit I was pretty tired due to major setup on coming wedding. Strangely next day, I received an sms from the journalist : Hannah, do you mind if we change the angle of the article.. we decided to do a featured story of you, my editor felt it was interesting to feature you.
This news came unexpected and was a pleasant surprise for me.
In the midst of busying, preparing other's weddings, God has been good preparing my PR direction. Attached is the link of what Business Times has written abt me.
http://www.asiaone.com/Just+Woman/About+Me/Marketing+Series/Story/A1Story20080414-59675.html- Becoming a Wedding Planner.

I was reflecting, in the short span of last 4 years plus, I have not spent much time nor funds on advertising nor PR management, and yet, I have been very fortunate to be featured in many different medias, and our weddings were fortunate to be featured in some magazines. Many asked how did you reach those journalists.. I smiled : I never look for them, they came to me.. and now looking back, I was reminded.. it's really not coincidence, it's divine.. God has been my best PR director, every move, every coverage was predestined by Him.. and I am grateful. Heaven's Gift is truly a gift of His love and provision to me. Thank you Lord.

We grow as an industry

2008-04-03T01:34:00.003+08:00

Today is an interesting and fruitful day. I started the day meeting Kuang from 39est ,simply chatted since he just returned from his wedding in Arizona...
Later some of us planners gathered together to have dinner.. Initiated by Esta from Truly Harmony. Despite I was actually really busy, I decided I should make time to join such community.. and I come back refreshed.

In the past, it would be a strange thing if planners gathered.in fact players in Singapore wedding industry are often close up, afraid someone would come and steal the ideas for another. But time has changed.. those who are open often are those whom you can trust to share and build the industry. I am so fortunate to have met so some of them, from photographers to planners to florists, designers etc..

For brides out there, when choosing your vendors for your wedding, look out for suppliers whose work are tested and proven. But at the same time, be weary of those that bad mouth the others in the industry. You will know who you can trust by your gut feel.. and always follow your heart when choosing your vendors, it will not go wrong..

Often, is the simple things in life that makes a wedding beautiful...

2008-04-01T00:32:00.003+08:00

Ead showed me some pix he took when he attended Kuang & Juli's wedding.. Yes Chi Kuang from 39east, our great photographer... http://eadwine.livejournal.com/tag/weddingpics
Kuang did tell me he's not wearing a suit for his wedding, and it's a simple celebration at the house backyard..

And when I saw the pictures, I was so happy, he truly stands up for what he believes.. And I have to say I love the pictures, I love the setup, so simple and so pretty and real. You can tell they are in love, and everyone is having fun.
Not much elaborate setup, but some lanterns, and flowers in vases, but loads of intimate moments with their loved ones.. I just love those shots.
It once again reminded me, simple things in life makes a wedding beautiful...

Emotions within..

2008-03-28T00:15:00.003+08:00

Granny got a minor heart attack this morning.. she fell yesterday... and tomorrow I have a wedding, one I look forward to plan. When all happened at one time, I just know I need to be still.. strangely the song that played in my car echoed, "Lord I trust you, I trust you..."

How do you budget for your wedding?

2008-03-22T08:46:00.005+08:00

In all my initial meetings, I always do a budget draft for my couples. Budgeting is key to any wedding plans. Without a budget, one will fail to envision what's the depth involved in a wedding.
So for a while, I have wanted to share this with all of you. The following percentage is what I called an estimate for a decent wedding in Singapore, and we are referring to an average wedding concept, not one that is lush and extravagant. A decent wedding will also mean you will put aside some money for decor, for weddings details, and not entirely have all yr weddings details been provided complimentary by your venue owner. Often, we love what we see in bridal magazines, those intricate touches and wedding details, but such details are often not provided by hotel or venue owner. So you need to set aside money if you want your wedding to be personalised.

Cost to set aside :

Ceremonial Rental & Ceremonial Reception - 2 to 5%
Banquet Rental & Banquet Reception - 30 to 50% (the larger the guest list, this will increase)
Wines and Special Beverages - 10 to 15 %
Wedding Cake -3%
Floral & Decor Setup (which may include lightings) -15 to 25%
Bridal gown & suit -3 to 5%
Makeup artist & Hair Stylist - 2 to 5%
Bridal Party Floral Essentials - 3 to 5 %
Wedding Stationery (invites, escort and place cards, menu cards etc) -2 to 5%
Wedding favours - 2 to 5%
Entertainment & Sound system - 5 to 10 %
Actual Day Photographer & videographer - 10 to 20%
Wedding Planners - 8 to 15%
Special corners - if you decide to have Polaroid stations, special candy corner etc - 5%

Other personal costs which we do not consider into a wedding budget, as they can vary and be as large as one desires :

Rings
Gifts for your bridal party and helpers
Honeymoon
Overseas guests travel and accommodations
Special transport and tour arranged
Pre or Post parties

The percentage may vary as the size of your guest list varies.. so take time to work out your budget and decide between both you and your partner, which of the above items are priority to you, those will be the one that will be taking the major segment of your final budgets.

Trust this is helpful to you all.

All was well until one artist irriates me...

2008-03-22T08:29:00.005+08:00

Have not been blogging.. actually have been a good month of consolidating as well as spending time with loved ones.. went to Melaka and came back refreshed...
Sometimes, you have much to say, but you just do not know how to begin.. maybe life was too good...

Until this morning, I was irritated.. someone who promised to deliver her works on time did not... Usually, my couples trusted my choice of artist recommendation, because I do take pride who I recommend..
Yet somehow I realised when you are too nice to the artists, some actually took you for granted..
It has been 3 months, and the album was not delivered, I wonder why the long wait.. later I realised the artist has not touched the work yet.. and that drives me to the wall.
Certainly, she's not going to be in my list of recommendations for future clients.

Count each day yr blessings...

2008-02-27T23:38:00.003+08:00

Today is an unforgettable day...
Have a great lunch with Jas. Met up my ex-bride, Jas from 2005, a very creative lady with great talents in gem accessories creations. I remembered when I first knew her, I ever told her to try exploring her talent and set up a business in this line.. and a year later, she started her business.. am happy for her. Just as I left after the meeting, and was crossing the road (Not jaywalking, but with the green pedestrian light on!!!), a van dashed across towards me, and stop 30cm away from me... I was stunned and furious and stared for a long time at the driver...

The whole afternoon, that incident kinda shaken me for a while. For that moment, I was thinking I might have been killed, or in the hospital now... so close, and God was watching over me..
It was good later, that I met up with Marie & Chris and run through my wedding concept for them... we had a good time, and the ideas once again re-energises me, and the afternoon trauma left me for a while....

On my way home, I pondered.. God, life is indeed short, and I am thankful I still get to do the things I enjoy, be blessed with couples that provide me the opportunities to create the beautiful weddings I have been dreaming of, and be protected and covered by His grace.. and most of all, surrounded with His love that is everlasting.

Learn to be still, new joy comes...

2008-02-18T12:11:00.005+08:00

Today is my off day... Yes, I do have off days, and am trying very hard to discipline myself to keep them as off days, and stay away fr work (but I have compromised by making some business calls, well it's necessary :) Usually, if we have no weddings on Sun, then Sun & Monday are our official off days... So for me, I don't get to have Mon Blues :) In fact, Mon is my happy day, I get to slow down myself, and relax my system, and usually creative ideas and refreshing moments come quickly during these periods.

I am now waiting at the car servicing centre, so I have my laptop.. reading some blogs, and updating mine as well.. Jus gone to Mac to have a long breakfast and was taking a bus to the mechanics to collect my car, (have not taken bus for so long), asked the driver the bus fare, when he knew where I was going, he said "never mind la, it's so short, I would give you a free ride... unexpected favour, I am happy... somehow when you are relaxed and not stressed, favour comes and you are quick to give thanks.
This period is my conceptualisation period.. so it's always good when my mind is relaxed, I get to see things beyond the natural eyes.. and I was reminded : Be still, in quietness and confidence trust, you will find your strength. So stay cheerful, stay focus, stay relaxed.. this is true.. when one is contented, all will be well... and even in the midst of uncertainty, miracles happen all the times.