This is really is it!

Photo by catholicpinoyblogger.blogspot.com

This is really is it... The date has been blocked.

We just made our reservations for the church ceremony at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Makati yesterday. Now, let me just clarify: this is not the famous and historical Nuestra Señora de Gracia in Makai ruins. This is Our Lady's Minor Basilica on the peak of Guadalupe plateau, Orense St, near the MMDA office.

I sometimes find it funny, because we really didn't look for other churches, nor did we went to any other church for ocular. It was like, we just knew what we wanted. In the words of the other guin, Kiko, we know what we want... (didn't i just said that?!)

Making the rerservation was easy, but kinds scary. The office has been so accommodating, since the first day kiko went there to inquire (an article which this guin is still waiting for, ahem ahem). Ate Ruby was very helpful and easy to talk to. She also assessed our papers and guided us with the things we need to submit.

Here are the things you need to know, in case you'd like to have your ceremony at the Shrine:

1. Both of you have to be there when you make the reservation. If you're just inquiring, either one of you can just visit the office. They'll just give you the packages.

2. Be ready to answer a questionnaire, or for an interview with the parish priest. In our case, we just answered the questionnaire the priest will ask during the interview. This is why you both have to be there. This is one of their major requirements. Take note: sharpen your Filipino skills. The questionnaire is in Filipino.

3. Submit the questionnaire to the office and be ready for an assessment. This will be based from your answers. Make sure that you did not leave any question unanswered. Just put "not applicable" on fields where you don't have an answer.

4. Downpayment of at least 50%, and the date is locked. Schedule for seminars and other requirements can follow afterwards. Just make sure all documents are ready at least 60 days before the wedding.

I'll still put in the churches we considered in Cosa Nostra, but those would have to wait. Pictures of the church, coming soon...

Tah for now!

c",)