What Makes a Good Event Planner?

Myra Gonzales

Events coordination is one of today's most popular professions. Nonetheless, not everyone in the field really have what it takes to make wonderful events happen. Hence, consumers should be aware of the qualities that actually make a genuinely good event planner.

Organization and Preparedness

Of course, the primary keys towards successfully managed occasions are organizational skills and utmost preparedness. Therefore, one should scout for planners with such traits. It is important that every detail is taken into consideration and properly decided on so as to avoid problems later on. Numerous specifications that require exactness and meticulousness should not overwhelm the organizer, and he or she should handle dates, meetings, receipts, and staff well. Through that, he or she can always be a step ahead of events and anything that can go wrong can be immediately addressed.

Creativity and Flexibility

Unique ideas and craftsmanship are also called for in this kind of profession. A good event planner must be able to visualize wonderful plans for each client, and with the greatest creative skills, he or she should manage to carry out all the plans efficiently. With that, clients can be impressed and happy about the special occasions in their lives. Certainly, flexibility is also another essential factor in customer satisfaction. An event coordinator should be able to adjust styles and services depending on what customers demand or specify. Also related to that is the ability to deal with sudden changes such as cancellations and unexpected weather conditions to still execute the planned occasion.

Customer Service

Individuals who want to hire event planning professionals should also consider customer relation skills including the way a planner speaks and acts in front of the client. He or she should be respectful enough while still maintaining a sense of friendliness or amiability. That is because satisfactory event planners should aim at knowing their customers well enough to provide them the personalized services they deserve. Approachability should be present as well so customers will not feel daunted to ask questions and demand certain specifications. Above all, communication should be kept intact so both parties can work well on realizing their dream events.

All these traits are present with the head planner of BrideChillax -- Myra Gonzales. Her trainings and experiences in the field of events planning have made her truly adept to the entire process of organizing wonderful occasions. Weddings, debuts, birthdays, christenings, and other events can be extra special once handled by Myra. As a bonus, she holds that certain passion for making dream events come true just like what she managed to do in her own wedding.

To see how Myra's magic works in events planning, contact her at 09173654254 or visit their team's website at http://bridechillaxofficial.multiply.com.

Guia Trinidad is the official writer/ publicist of BrideChillax.

How Arlington Made It Easier for Us

It has just been two weeks when my grandmother died and I must admit that the entire family still has not fully recovered. We still miss Lola Linda and I don't think we'll be used to the emptiness anytime soon. How can we manage to do that when we're just three days away from Christmas and Lola will no longer be there to laugh and cook? Truly, the pain of losing her -- no matter how peaceful she may be now -- is difficult to accept.

As I deal with the sadness of missing her, I suddenly thought about how we managed to carry out an organized and graceful burial for her. Our family members barely have any experience in arranging funerals and though the death was somewhat expected, we were still generally unprepared. Then I realized that it was through the help of our chosen funeral service provider, Arlington Memorial Chapels and Crematory, that we successfully completed the wake and interment that my grandmother deserved.

The staff of Arlington are truly decent and respectful, and they provide remarkably sincere services. I'll never forget how careful they were in handling my Lola's body. They treated her not as a lifeless corpse, but as a living person that is worthy of care and respect. I have seen other funeral service companies before and I know how they treat cadavers. However, the way Arlington handled the dead body of my grandma was different. They gently covered her in a clean white blanket and carried her to a stretcher towards their neat and presentable van.

The men that Arlington sent were wearing their uniforms properly and even bothered to wear gloves to ensure cleanliness and safety. More importantly, they uttered their genuine condolences before driving off.

Arlington also did an excellent job in preparing my Lola for her wake. Her makeup was appropriate and she was dressed beautifully. They listened to all our instructions as to how we want Lola to look like and they adhered to what we instructed to the best they can. When we arrived at the assigned chapel, everything was all set up and the room was clean and presentable enough.

The superb assistance of Arlington did not end there. A minor technical issue occurred as the air conditioning unit malfunctioned. They addressed the concern right away by sending electric fans and by opening the windows; however, when they realized that the air-con will not be fixed on time, they advised us to transfer to another unit where everyone will be more comfortable. What's surprising about it was that they allowed us to transfer to a bigger chapel with more facilities and amenities without making any additional charges.

For the eight days that we stayed at Arlington, I can truly say that we had a convenient experience. They quickly and politely respond to requests and inquiries, and they provided everything that we need. Above all, the Arlington personnel have a remarkable initiative that is heartwarming for a family who had just lost a member. They offer all assistance that they deem necessary and they execute them all efficiently. 

Truly, Arlington made it easy for all of us. They were behind our backs from the beginning of the wake until the end of the interment. 

Every night, as we pray for Lola Linda using the prayer leaflets Arlington prepared, I remember their goodness and their sincere services.

And I know for a fact that Lola is looking down from heaven, smiling and thanking Arlington for all the things they have done for her final days.

PHOTO SOURCE: http://wikimapia.org/4175191/Arlington-Memorial-Chapels-Crematory

Reaching the Glossy Pages of a Magazine

SOURCE: http://www.starmometer.com/

I have reached the glossy pages of a magazine!! Wait, allow me to rephrase that. My name has reached the glossy pages of a magazine!! Hahaha.

With the help of my mentor, Sir Nestor Cuartero, and my internship partner, Iris Joy Abarquez, the name REMIGIA TRINIDAD managed to be published in the January 2011 issue of Inside Showbiz magazine. 

The article that Iris and I wrote is about the celebrities that graduated or studied in the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas (UST.) We did not conduct any interviews, but simply highlighted how UST was able to produce distinct artists and politicians. The article was published in time for the institutions' celebration of its 400th year of existence. 

The UST starts have truly made the commemoration brighter and more colorful. Viva Sto. Tomas! :)

I fell deeply in love with "Ever After"

SOURCE: http://earleia.over-blog.com/article-downloads-ever-after-93061599.html

I have always been a hopeless romantic individual. Ever since I was a kid, I have always dreamed of finding that one person that will love me for the rest of my life. Of course, that inclination turned me into a fan of all romantic things in this world. It seems that all tear-jerking and heartwarming stories, songs, films, and books have cast a spell on me to fall more deeply in love with the idea of "happily ever after."

That enchantment probably led me to finding Karen Kingsbury's book titled "Ever After" in one of the corners of the UST Library - Humanities Section. The lovely cover charmed me in an instant and I did not even bother reading the synopsis at the back of the book, or researching for online reviews before digging into its contents. It was too late when I discovered that the novel involves the military! What?! I was never fond of the ARMY! What is even more awkward was that the manuscript was inspired by true stories. Although I was not comfortable with the idea of reading about the tough military love, I was too engrossed with the first few pages that I cannot let go of it just like that.

And so, I continued reading. Indeed, it was a typical love story between a young girl (Emily Anderson) who falls in love with a handsome army reservist (Justin Baker.) Their relationship was affected by the social and political problems primarily involving the war. Despite the usual tone and theme of the novel, there was something different about "Ever After." It has already been a year since I read the book, but I still cannot figure out how the author managed to come up with a typical story that can give a distinct impact to readers.

Probably, it was the "surprise" factor that made it different from other usual stories. At the middle of the novel, I was shocked (for real!) when Justin Baker died in the war.  It was unexpected since it did not even happen in a fight scene, and there was no indication that the lead character will soon face his end. I was expecting that he'll manage to go home and be unconditionally loved by Emily Anderson despite physical and emotional impairment. That, for me, is how I defined a love story. But Karen Kingsbury introduced to me a new and better definition for true love.

She sent a subtle message that love can exist even without the physical presence of the person. The mutual feeling can still be present through the loved ones left; through the people that has once been touched; and through the significant changes that has been made throughout his existence. Emily felt the love of Justin through his family, friends, and colleagues. And those people felt the same through Emily.

Believe me, the book was magical. I may not be that efficient in describing how the story really goes, but one thing is for sure -- Ever After is a novel that can reach hearts and spirits. It was surreal and it has affected my individuality in an incredible way. In fact, I cannot eat and sleep for a few days. My eyes were swollen for crying over it, and when I returned the book to the library, I would drop by every week to visit the book and stare at the cover. 

Once again, a spell has been cast upon me. I fell in love with the novel, with the characters, with the author, and with her idea of "Ever After."

Cool profit on hot election day

I was cleaning my mail the other day and I found this link with the title "Cool profit on hot election day." Suddenly, I recalled the memories of my Manila-Bulletin-On-the-Job-Training during the summer of 2010. I can't help laughing at myself for doing silly things at the duration of the entire internship. And what is even funnier is that I cannot believe myself for having survived the Pasig police beat. Whew! Anyway, here is the copy of one of my first published articles.

P.S. Continue reading til you reach my name at the bottom. :)

 

Cool profit on hot election day

 

By FRANCIS T. WAKEFIELD

May 11, 2010, 2:40pm

Aside from having the chance to vote in order to choose our country’s next leaders, election day in the Philippines proved profitable for vendors, considered part of the “underground economy,” who doubled their earnings.

Vendors in Barangay Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City said that election day was a “profit day” – especially for those selling cold refreshing drinks from sago gulaman, to buko and melon juice to voters who had to line-up for a few hours under the heat of the sun to participate in the country’s first ever automated elections.

Fely Persincula, 38, married and who has eight children, said that she is expected to earn at least P800 from selling corn (mais) and “sago gulaman” to voters queuing in different polling precincts at the Pinagbuhatan Elementary School.

When asked why she chose corn and sago gulaman as the kind of goods to sell, she explained that it’s much easier to sell to the people.

“Madali kasi ito itinda at mabenta sa kanila lalo na at mainit ang panahon ngayon" (It's easier to sell especially since the weather is very hot today,) Persincula said.

Meanwhile, 35-year-old Angie Asomrado, who sells gulaman and melon juice outside the school, said she would earn more or less P600 for half day’s work.

Asomrado, who has two children ages 13 and 10 explained that if it was just an ordinary day, she would not earn that much money.

“Mas malaki ang kita ko kung araw ng election kumpara sa regular na araw (My earnings are much better during the elections compared to a regular day,” she said.

Maria Fe Reynancia, 62, who has been selling buko juice for the past five years, also said that her earnings doubled because of the high demand for her drink.

She said from a capital of P500, the money will double in just a few hours.

Reynancia, in the meantime, said that despite her needing to do business to earn money, she did not set aside her responsibility and duty as a Filipino citizen to vote during an election.

“Kahit kailangan magtrabaho, gumising pa rin ako ng maaga para bumoto" (Despite the fact that I need to work, I had to wake-up early in order for me to vote,) she said.

Reynancia said that she wished that elections would be held every day so that small-time vendors like her will earn enough profit to feed the family.

“Kahit hindi pwede mangyari, pero sana araw-araw eleksyon" (Even if it’s impossible to happen, how I wish everyday is election day,) she said. 

(With Guia Trinidad)

SOURCE: http://www.mb.com.ph/node/256878/cool-profit-hot-election-day

The Effects of Computer Mediated Communication to Language Development

Computer mediated communication (CMC) is defined by experts as any form of interaction that takes place through the use of networked computers. Instant messaging, voice-over Internet protocol (VoIP), e-mail, video and audio streams, as well as blogs are just some of the most common tools of CMC. Later on, the term was also applied to other forms of text-based interaction including text-messaging through mobile phones.

SOURCE: http://techcrunch.com/

The main contribution of CMC to the world is the eradication of communication barriers by bridging the gaps of interaction. Specifically, it has solved the problem of slow communication processes that mainly revolved on snail mails and telegrams before. With CMC, everyone has truly achieved immediacy. People can now exchange messages, photos, videos, and even video calls in an instant. Hence, it has been considered by most as the best tool to keep people together and keep their relationships intact. They are most applicable for individuals who are working away from their families, or who are maintaining long-distance relationships.

This innovation also helped the formation of more friendships or social relations since it allow most people to feel free from discrimination. They no longer have to worry about being judged for their physical features or economic status since they are not dealing with others in person. Regardless of race, height, skin color, and other factors, individuals can gain the confidence to interact. Several studies revealed that this has not only served as foundation for romantic and social bonds, but has also supported professional and business connections. Moreover, since CMC encourages participation among users, it has been widely applied for learning purposes through different online instructional tools of educational institutions.

Nevertheless, it seems that real-time interaction -- the main advantage of CMC -- also turned out to be its major drawback. Of course, this has allowed immediate exchange of messages between users; however, it has also served as a constraint to some extent. Experts claimed that because communicating individuals want to represent effects that are only possible in face-to-face interactions, they tend to do informal “spoken” style of writing. With that, they develop and demonstrate a prototypical combination of spoken and written media.

Several studies stated that the different means of computer mediated communication has exhibited some notable linguistic features that can or has already affected the language development especially of young users. Primarily, in using today’s text-based message transmission via short message service (SMS) and instant messenger, people tend to abbreviate words too much; thus, seriously affecting grammar and diction. This is acceptable in the World Wide Web since there are no actual rules that must be observed; however, this can be detrimental to individual users as they completely adapt this form of writing in the actual world.

The first CMC feature concerns orthography or the science of spelling through the sense of sight. It has been common in online chats and text messages to see informal “phonetic” spellings and abbreviated words. For instance, the word “love” is typed as “luv,” and phrases like “don’t know” are reduced to “dunno.” Another alarming CMC attribute is related to vocabulary. A lot of slang terms are commonly used, and interjections are always present to add a touch of emotion into the messages. For example, expressions like “phew!” and “oh” are injected to sentences to show the emotional intensity that the sender want to relay.

CMC users also possess the tendency to develop telegraphic language that seriously affects their grammar knowledge. Aside from improper capitalization and punctuation, they also do sequences of multiple coordination or subordination of sentences, also known as “chaining.” According to experts, this is because they follow their “stream of consciousness” in writing; hence, they simply attach interaction features or questions directly to sentences without observing the proper way of putting them.

Finally, they exhibit paralinguistic and graphics concerns. There are instances where individuals make use of improperly spaced and multiple letters for emphasis. For instance, they type in the word “please” with multiple "E"s to show their eagerness. Some also capitalize all letters to demonstrate anger or shouting, while some simply opt to apply emoticons like “:-)” for a smiley.

If all these CMC features are not addressed appropriately by professionals, the next generation can possibly go back to telegraphic way of communicating. Experts asserted that the technological contribution of computer mediated interaction must be used for the advancement of knowledge and communication skills of people, and not to their linguistic deterioration.

Pinoy Nationalism: Fact or Fashion?

SOURCE: http://www.zazzle.com/

PROUD TO BE FILIPINO -- that is the nationalistic statement written on the shirt of a not-so nationalistic teenager who is busy digging into his quarter-pounder while listening to Greenday.

Obviously, that lad and his shirt do not coincide.

Actually, that scenario is not an original. There are a lot of people out there, both young and old, who would boldly wear stuffs that say they're proud Filipinos but couldn't even stand up for what they know is best for the Philippines.

The scent of Filipino pride is indeed everywhere. Form shirts to shoes, jackets and pins, even accessories are now used to promote patriotism. Designs also vary, but of course, one of the most commonly used is the Philippine flag. As the symbol of our country, the colors of the flag served as an inspiration to many of the designs. Its sun and three stars are also evident together with some of other famous symbols that represent the country. The faces of well-known Filipinos like that of our national hero, Dr Jose Rizal, as well as other patriotic individuals such as Ninoy Aquino, and Manny Pacquiao are also printed on shirts, bags, pins and other accessories.

Aside from those mentioned designs, loud statements like "Proud to be a Filipino, and "The Filipino is Worth Dying For," also hooked the "nationalistic side" of Filipinos.

But what could've started such a sudden rush of Filipino blood?

Francis Magalona

The life and death of Francis Magalona contributed a lot to the in-demand nationalistic fashion sense of Pinoys today. He started a clothing line called FMCC (Francis Magalona's Clothing Company) that carried patriotic patterns and the most well-known are "three stars and a sun." Since the ‘90s, he has already been influential especially to the youth. However, unlike on other Filipinos, Francis Magalona’s nationalism was something genuine and consistent. In fact, his love for his country lasted even until his death as his pride for being a Filipino was also pronounced through his songs. The strength that he showed as he fought against his sickness also proved that he belongs to the brave Filipino race.

SOURCE: http://infophalanx.blogspot.com/

 

 

SOURCE: http://odnid-aitum-ognim-layp.blogspot.com/

Ako Mismo

Another influence could be the advocacy called Ako Mismo. It became known because of its advertisement that includes celebrities and its unique emblem -- a dog tag.

Instantly, the red, black and white tag became part of everyone’s outfit, and the result -- a fad. Actually, that accessory could have been the best morale booster for Filipinos. Imagine how beautiful and heart-warming it could be to witness millions of Filipinos wearing their Ako Mismo dog tags while walking hand-in-hand and strongly united under a single aim. However, that is not the case; most of the people wearing it are just doing so because they want to fit in. They might not even be aware that DDB Cares is behind this advocacy and that its main goal is to energize and rejuvenate the Filipino youth and eventually move them to action.

Hopefully, it’s not yet too late to animate the young Juan dela Cruz.

Filipino Pride

Talented Pinoys who made it big around the world contributed as well to the emergence of nationalistic modern clothing.

Just like Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao who gives the Filipinos so much honor every time he wins in an international boxing game. He has his own limited clothing line which is way more expensive than that of Francis Magalona’s. Probably, these were originally made for his foreign fans who could afford it and not for his local supporters.

The Philippine All Stars -- the dance group which gave pride to our country by winning in several international dance competitions -- also started the idea of wearing Philippinized apparels. It was evident in their pictures that every time they would compete, they would be wearing shirts which have designs derived from our national flag.

Although their moves were that of the American hip-hop, their love for their country is still visible especially when they give their best at every contest in order to take home an invaluable award for their nation.

SOURCE: http://watch-mosley-vs-pacquiao.blogspot.com/

Fact or Fashion?

Every Filipino has the right to show his loyalty to his motherland in whatever ways he wants. Statement shirts and metal dog tags are perfectly acceptable outlets for patriotism. Nonetheless, Pinoys should constantly be reminded that nationalism is a serious matter dealing with devotion of national interest, unity and independence. One must stand up for what his shirt is saying.

So, is nationalism indeed the most dominant virtue of the present? Or is it just the latest fashion trend?

BGC Passion Parade rolls into town

May 24, 2011, 11:10am

SOURCE: http://www.ourawesomeplanet.com/

MANILA, Philippines – BGC has been celebrating seasons by highlighting people’s zeal for the arts, music and sports through innovative activities like an outdoor orchestra, art tours, and alleycat bike races -- all held as part of the ‘BGC Passionfest.’

This summer, in its commitment in igniting and nurturing people’s passions, BGC has become totally unstoppable.

On May 28 and June 4 at 5PM, in cooperation with One Serendra and Two Serendra, BGC will hold the country’s first ever Passion Parade.

The parade, set to go along the main thoroughfares of Bonifacio High Street, will feature an exciting and colorful display of 7- to 12-foot high colorful, giant balloon sculptures and a huge assembly of BGC’s very own ‘passion communities’ composed of runners, cyclists, skateboarders, Miata sports car and Mini Cooper enthusiasts.

The gigantic balloons will represent some of BGC’s public art installations like Reginald Yuson’s ‘Hearsay’ and ‘Specific Gravity,’ and Conrado Velasco’s ‘Tinstaej no. 85,’ all found in Bonifacio High Street; as well as Gerardo Leonardo’s ‘Balanghai,’ and Reynato Paz Contreras’ ‘The Trees.’ Subjects of passion such as camera and pet dogs will also amuse everyone.

Watchers would enjoy free handmade balloons twisted like ladybug bracelets, skateboard helmets, flower head dresses and fish head pieces.

The participating passion communities, led by Miata Club Phils., Pinoy Mini, Loop Bikers, Mountain Bike Phils., and Barely Legal Running team, have prepared surprise gimmick acts that are a must-see. They are all eager to be at the Passion Parade to share and mingle with other enthusiasts.

Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc. will hold a ‘Sketch Up’ wherein 5 sketch artists will give out sketches of people with the public art installations as backdrop.

Don’t let this summer end without being part of something as exciting as this one-of-a-kind BGC Passion Parade. Everyone is guaranteed with an afternoon jam-packed with fun activities for the entire family. Experience the blazing exchange of passions only at the ‘home of passionate minds.’ 

For more photos, visit:

http://www.ourawesomeplanet.com/awesome/2011/05/a-guide-to-the-first-ever-bgc-passion-parade.html

Release Written By: Guia Trinidad

Tactical Mix