Choosing my wedding photographer

I've approached several photographers, and compared prices/packages - as my handsome & I decided that we will not be doing the cliché pre-wedding photography. I believe that a bride should only wear her wedding gown once, that makes it more meaningful for the bride and groom. However, many tends to debate that "we are young only once, so MUST take pre-wedding photograph to capture our youth" quoted from my darling cousin :P 

1

Photographer Name: Edwin Tan
Reference: http://edwintcg.com/blog/
Reason for choosing: Recommended by friends. This is also my darling cousin's choice for her fabulous wedding.

Source: http://edwintcg.com/blog/

Source: http://edwintcg.com/blog/

Source: http://www.prettyinwhite.com.my/portfoliocpt/edwin-tan/

Price range: Reasonable for a professional/reputable product and services.

Verdict: Fast response to inquiries, accommodating, transparent and his services are highly sought after - so ladies, if you're interested, please book Edwin in advance. His work includes within Malaysia and overseas. I would rate his overall price, package and services as 3.6 out of 5.0 - because his price range is above average. 

2

Photographer Name: Paul Kong @ CK
Reference: http://gallerieck.com/blog/
Reason for choosing: Featured in several social platform.

Price range: Reasonable for a professional/ reputable product and services - cheaper than Edwin.

Verdict: Fast response to inquiries, transparent and his services are highly sought after as well. I would rate his overall price, package and services as 4.2 out of 5.0 - because his prices is value for money. I may book him for our family photography in future.

3

Photographer Name: Grace Tan (Founder)
Reference: http://stories.my/

Source: http://stories.my/our-new-ride-the-volkswagen-kombi/

Price range: Above average, but with impeccable finished products.

Verdict: A little bit slow on response, probably they were in the midst of moving their studio. Highly sought after as well - provides videography & photobooth services. Loved both their photography & videography produces. For their price, package and services as 4.0 out of 5.0 - because their prices are above average. If you have enough budget, I would highly recommend. 

Rewind ~ Bridal gown hunt - Day 4

Day 4 ~ My last day of gown searching finally comes to an end - I've found THE perfect dress! Read below to find out more.

Bridal shops: 

1

• Absolute Bride

Location: B-06-20, Empire Soho, Empire Subang Jalan SS16/1, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Selangor 47500
Website: http://www.absolutebride.com.my/ or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Absolute-Bride/151372848266220
Why I chose to visit: Recommended by forumers for cheap prices and great quality.

Source: http://www.absolutebride.com.my/p/gown-collection.html

Source: http://www.absolutebride.com.my/p/gown-collection.html

Source: https://www.facebook.com/151372848266220/photos/pb.151372848266220.-2207520000.1398220188./530578483678986/?type=3&theater

My Experience: After reading comments from other brides about this place, I had high hopes. The owner pleasantly welcomed us into her shop, but in my opinion, do not have the professional knowledge on what gowns would best suit my body shape. The most disappointing experience is to put on the first gown and another 3 gowns after that - it did not feel comfortable at all, and I felt itchy wearing their lace gowns. It felt like it's "made in China" fabric. Although the price is fairly cheap compared to other bridal shops, I wouldn't want to be uncomfortable throughout my wedding day! A big NO-NO for me :(

*photo taking is NOT allowed in bridal shop*

2

• Pretty in White

Location: 21 Jalan 26/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Website: http://www.prettyinwhite.com.my/ or https://www.facebook.com/myprettyinwhite
Why I chose to visit: Curiosity 

My actual wedding dress

My Experience: I had my reservations when it comes to custom made wedding gowns - they are expensive! But I wouldn't want to miss a chance to at least TRY one of their gowns. Louisa Michael, one of the designer attended to me on that day. She voiced out her opinion on what should be taken into consideration, when choosing a gown for my body shape. Their rental prices starts from RMXXXX, and their custom made gowns can double/triple that amount! But their quality and workmanship is Exquisite!! Their lace feels so soft and not itchy, and the pattern on the lace is beautifully designed. Be warned, however, they do not have a wide range of dresses for you to browse - but it's enough for me to make my decision. 

In the end, I've decided to custom made my gown, which is a modified version from one of the dresses in their collection. I've got no regrets, despite spending a little bit more, but I just couldn't compromise on the quality that other shops had to offer. Moreover, this is my ONE and ONLY wedding gown, which makes it even more special. When my handsome saw me in my wedding dress for the first time on our wedding day, it blew his mind! 

*photo taking is allowed in bridal shop*

-to read on my bridal gown hunt again go to Day 1-

Rewind ~ Bridal gown hunt - Day 3

Day 3 ~ Do read on my experiences about the bridal shops that I have visited. I hope it could be useful for those brides who are searching :)

Bridal shops:

3

• Gowns Trees

Location: The Strand Damansara

Website: http://gownstrees.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/GownsTrees 

Why I chose to visit: Newly opened

Source: http://signatureweddings.asia/portfolio/gowns-trees-bridal-gowns-rental/

Source: http://signatureweddings.asia/portfolio/gowns-trees-bridal-gowns-rental/

My Experience: The shop was new when one of my bridesmaid and I first visited, so it had limited choices of bridal wear. Their designs are very unique and made us go "WOW"!, but the rental prices made is go "WOW" as well. Custom made is available, and you may want to bring your mom/mom-in-law here to rent their cheongsams - they're gorgeous, although expensive. They even have bridal car decoration services and since they newly opened, they encouraged their customers to take photo of themselves in their gowns and tag them on Facebook. When doing so, customers get to enjoy a certain discount rate.

*photo taking is allowed in bridal shop*

4

• Armadale

Location: F-G-03A, Ground Floor, Block F, Neo Damansara, No 1, Jalan PJU 8/1, Bandar Damansara Perdana, (By appointment basis) 47820

Website: http://armadale.com.my/web/ or https://www.facebook.com/ArmadaleWeddings

Why I chose to visit: Highly recommended by forumers/ other brides.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/ArmadaleWeddings?ref=stream&hc_location=timeline&filter=1

Source: http://edwintcg.com/blog/2011/12/armadale-weddings-edwin-tan-photography/

 Edwin Tan, their official photographer - famous for his works in bridal photography.

Source: http://www.twenty3.my/pages/locations

My Experience: First spotted my name & appointment time on the notice board, prior entering the premise. We were served immediately by Judy, the sales assistant. First impression - professional & established bridal shop, and the choices of bridal gowns & evening wear were endless. However, not ALL of the gowns are in NEW condition, but I'm sure Armadale will fix it when customer confirmed on those dresses. Judy recommended me several gowns, but again did not scream "THIS IS THE ONE". The price ranges from RMXXX - RMXXXX - prices for veil comes separately (since I'm only renting the gown, and not taking their package). I came back two more times with my mum, but alas, we didn't booked any gowns here, but it's worth the experience :)

*photo taking is NOT allowed in bridal shop*