The Veluz Bride

Ana

2011-12-20T19:59:00.000+08:00

I always get excited when I get destination weddings.
After attending one as a guest, uhmm okay, I did the bridal gown and the groom's suit too :-), and that wedding being the most fun I've attended, I knew that if I am going to get married again, it has to be a destination wedding.
Spirit is just different, it's just so alive!! Imagine the very people you love, flocking to that faraway place just to see you celebrate your love... :-)

Ana and Vince's wedding was no different. Both based overseas who went back to their roots just to make that lifetime commitment. Their wedding was uber fun and filled with so much love :-) And to top it all off, the photographer capturing and immortalizing the vibe that that place is known for. Kudos to Oly and my very best wishes to one of the sweetest couple we've met, Ana and Vince :-)

Hi Ms. V :-)

Alam ko marami ka ng mga thank you notes na natatanggap from your brides but here I am joining the flock of those who want to THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART....

I'm writing a note to personally thank you for making me a bride. I really felt every bit of a bride that day Ms. V, and it was because of your creation. I saw myself glowing whenever I pass a mirror or see my reflection, and I really felt beautiful that day. Everyone could not stop talking about how beautiful the dress was. My hubby gave a huge cry when he saw me walk down the aisle (sa sobrang ganda raw po.. para na akong apparition.. di nya alam it was the Swarovskis and champagne colors you used sa gown ko). Hindi lang sya ang umiyak, pati si Best Man!! I was so confused walking down the aisle and seeing both men crying so hard! Akala ko something was wrong! I'm just not used to having someone stare at me in awe hahaha! ganda ganda ganda talaga ng gown ko! :-)

We had such a great time during our wedding in Bacolod, ang daming nagtatanong kung sino ang gumawa ng gown.. so I would say, we made a commercial plug for you... watch out for more Bacolod Brides!

Sayang hindi na namin masyado naikot sina Ate Pot, Shawi and Jake.. busy kasi yung sked...

Thank you po talaga!

BACOLOD BRIDE :-)

Thanks too guys for taking care of my staff. I really appreciate the warm reception you gave them. My staff has nothing but praises for you two. And for that, I am extremely grateful :-)

Photos by Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto

Mavelle

2011-12-02T17:32:00.004+08:00

I'm at a loss for words.
She has written more than enough.. :-)

Hi Ms. Veluz,

Sa dami ng letters na you get from beautiful, happy brides from all over the world, I am so clueless how to start mine. I think I got through that part already hehe. Sorry for messaging you this late, ngarag busy talaga kami after the wedding. I was going to send you the photos of the wedding and the dress from Pat Dy's work but I saw that he already tagged you :-)

To you and your team, I am extending my heartfelt appreciation and thanks. Maraming, maraming, maraming salamat Ms.V! The dress was magical! Akalain mong babae pala talaga ako, akala ko kathang isip lang :-)

During the months of preparation for the big day, my friends would ask me, "Veluz bride ka ba talaga? Eh baket wala kang picture kasama si Veluz?" To this day, I still beat myself up for not having a photo taken with you when I had the fittings in your shop. Na-star struck talaga ako Ms. V. kasi :( I remember every day that I would visit your shop may dala kami camera ni Jairus but we would go back home empty-handed sa sooobrang starstruck ko sayo. Yes, sa tanda kong ito bigla ako nahiya. Magkakamot nalang ng ulo si Jairus at mega explain nalang ako sa ingglisero kong fiancee kung baket wala na naman ako picture with you..nosebleed and all :)

But on the wedding day, when they finally put the dress on me, no words were needed to justify it. It was a Veluz creation and I was a Veluz bride. Enough said.

The dress you made for me has truly been a great inspiration to our wedding. I remember my wedding planner would always say whenever i would get excited about our event design. "This all started with your dress really. It's all because of your dress." Our vendors here in the Bay Area couldn't stop talking about the dress. In fact whenever we would attend bridal events here and Jairus and I would be introduced to other vendors, the first line would be.. "You have got to see her wedding dress!". Yun muna ang mauuna sa introduction bago ang mga pangalan namin, haha! but I woudn't be more prouder, I was beaming with Filipino pride.

Thank you for creating a wedding dress that made our big day even more amazing. I coudn't believe my childhood fantasy was being realized- I was a queen for the day (yes po, queen-hindi princess, hehe). The dress make you simply fall inlove over and over again. It was pure magic!
Maraming, maraming salamat po talaga.

I would also like to thank your amaaazing team especially with Ms. Weng, Ms. Gercel, and Ms. Pot for giving me a joyful fitting experience, naks! They were sooo sweet, feeling ko talaga blushing bride ako with them.

I still do not have the official photos from Pat Dy. But I have the link of our SDE from Mayad Studios (hindi pa yata uploaded yung high quality version). You'll see there the wedding your dress has inspired.....yes, Veluz -inspired po ang wedding ko.:)

You are truly an answered prayer in this whole wedding experience and I couldn't thank God for hooking me up with the best designer ever. Ang lakas ko talaga kay Lord :)

Maraming salamat ulit Ms. Veluz! Balang araw, magkakapicture din ako with you :)

Mae

Photos by The Amazing Pat Dy
Video by Mayad

Thank you too Mavelle! You deserve all the happiness :-)

Janice

2011-11-10T19:06:00.002+08:00

Janice is one of the sweetest brides I've worked with, and her mom-in-law, one of the most loving.
Funny that I had to mention that but I am just amazed of how the mom-in-law was so hands-on in making sure I give the best to her future daughter-in-law. But after knowing her more, I understood why.
She's genuinely kind, not a mean bone in her body :-)
She listens and trusts.
Any mom will love her.
So I gave her this.

I don't know if its just me, but I believe she carried it magnificently :-)

Oh and special thanks to the Details Diva, Ernest Pascual. I gasped when I saw the beautiful pattern he designed for the couple. I adapted the pattern from the invite for the embroidery of the gown. As I always say, di naman ako magpapakabog sa invites no?! hahaha!

Kudos to Sid Estrella of Amis Print for the elegant invites :-)

Photos by Mimi and Karl

Video by Jason Magbanua

Coordination by Ernest Pascual

Hair and Make-up by Mickey See

Dot

2011-08-04T10:18:00.001+08:00

When you can't find the right lace, you make one :-)
Thanks Dot for letting me do this :-)

Hi Veluz,

I wanted to write to say "thank you so much." You and your staff and creations are amazing. I love my gown and my husband loved the gown as well. I did not want to take the gown off at the end of the night. That is how much I love it.

I saw the photos on FB relating to the beautiful gowns you made for the Pinagayon Fashion show. All of the dresses are incredibly beautiful. I especially love the dress with the intricate beadworks at the back. Looking at the gowns you created makes me want to get married again (to the same groom, hehehe), just so I can wear your work. You are a genius at what you do. Thank you, again, Veluz.

Everyone at the wedding and after the wedding showered me with compliments on my beautiful wedding dress. Your fame is growing, since a couple of female friends guessed that you made the fabulous gown. I can go on and on about how much I love the dress for me and the work that you do. I'll stop to say another thanks and hope you have a fantastic, happy and equally busy and properous new year ahead!

Warmest regards,

Dot

Photos by Nelwin Uy
Hair and Make up by Xeng Zulueta and Felicity Son

Christine

2011-04-15T17:39:00.004+08:00

Christine emailed me about 8 to 9 months before the wedding. She sent me an amazing moodboard and immediately I felt she's one of those independent, never-cheesy kind of girl :-) But she's a lola's girl too and an only daughter, I knew then this is going to be one high-pressure, uber-stressful wedding gown. Dealing with moms is never easy but then again, I am always up for the challenge. I love moms but an unsatisfied one is definitely one of those things I absolutely dread.

Her mom expectedly asked for a meeting so she can present her daughter's idea. Okay, here it goes ..... Good thing Ms. Kutchie, one of the industry's well-loved planner, came along. At least I have someone to help me out in explaining, Ms. Kutchie more or less knows how I work, at least she will be able to back me up with a doubtful mom :-)

Her mom, is nothing short of amazing! loved her instantly! She was able to introduce Christine and present her ideas so well, it's like I was talking to the bride herself. She was giving ideas without controlling the conversation, she was listening without discriminating. She showed me her mom's panuelo and courteously asked if it's possible to incorporate it. It was a Ramon Valera creation. I fainted.

Ramon Valera was and will always be an inspiration. He was a visionary who was way ahead of his time. And to hold an actual Valera, much less re-work it for a wedding gown is something I never thought I will have an opportunity to do. I am overwhelmed at the thought and this I say, without a tinge of exaggeration.

This is Christine with Lola's portrait wearing the actual panuelo. Kudos and special thanks to Jayjay Lucas for this photo.

and this is what I did.

I am not even hoping that Valera will applaud what I did but I am just wishing he will not pull my leg in my sleep :-)

Thank you Christine and Mom for this wonderful opportunity.

Photos by Jayjay Lucas and Jamie Lihan for Imagine Nation
Hair and Make up by Eddie Bruan
Video by MG Digital
Coordination by Ms. Kutchie Zaldarriaga

Pat

2011-03-10T21:38:00.002+08:00

Hi Ms Veluz!

Hahakutin ko na lahat ng THANK YOU para maibigay sa yo pero kulang pa siguro ang mga iyon. Lahat ang sabi sa akin mukha daw akong princess!!! ako na ata ang pinakamasayang tao nun :)

I have never imagined that my gown to be that beautiful. I pray that God will continue to bless you more. Please stay genuine and down to earth as you are always. Even with your celebrity status and popularity, you are still approchable and very accommodating. This is one of the reasons I am very much confident that my gown will be wonderful. :)

Again, thank you thank you thank you. :)

Please also extend my thanks to your entire team for all their talent and efforts. :) Special mention to Ate Weng, Ms. Gercel and Ate Pot. :)

With lots of love,
Pat Chua-Abecina :)

P.S. I will seriously wear my gown on our 25th anniversary. :)

Coordination by Just Like Ours
Photos by Paolo Feliciano
Video by Chug Cadiogan

Dale

2011-02-18T22:06:00.018+08:00

Dear Ms. V,

I've been wanting to give my thanks for the magical gown you made for me on my wedding. I was debating on going to your shop the day after my wedding to personally give my hugs and kisses...but the post wedding errands and all held me back. even so, you were always in my thoughts, whispering a prayer for you, the lady who gave me the most wonderful gift on my wedding day.

I even told Gani during the ceremony that I was already sated by the fact that I look stunning in my gown...that I don't even care whatever happens in our reception...My wedding day is already complete!! I felt I was at my prettiest!! So when he was complaining about some of our wedding glitches, I could not relate, coz i was sooo overwhelmed by the fact that I was wearing the most fabulous gown I've ever seen. You made me so very happy. All superlatives are not enough to express and define how your work made me feel. Even if it was your birthday, you made sure to see me off, and you sent the most professional staff to assist me. I love them dearly, please also send my thanks, hugs and kisses to everyone.

You deserve all the success you have now, Ms. V. I could give my testimonial to anyone who would dare to malign or wrongly judge your work. My friends, even the most critical and judgmental ones, unanimously said I was stunning and gorgeous in my gown. For this wonderful feeling, for the happiness you caused me, thank you ms. Veluz!! I love you Ms. V!! Gani loves you...my family loves you..every one who saw me in my gown loves you dearly. I continue to pray for you and your family's safety, happiness and your success. May the Lord bless and keep you always. Love you mader V!! I'll definitely return to your shop one of these days.

Dale

Photos by Francis Perez of Pat Dy Photography
Video by Bob Nicolas
Hair and Make up by Robbie Piñera

Gani and Dale from Bob Nicolas on Vimeo.

Lethel

2011-02-10T14:34:00.007+08:00

Lethel is such a fine, classy lady and the minute I saw her as one of the gorgeous pink ladies at Jamie's wedding, I knew then that is the style for her :-)

But she's getting married in Boracay, and isn't it just right that when it's a Boracay wedding, the gown should be soft and light for that wind blown by the beach effect? Preferably in tulle or chiffon?

Oh
Okay.
Hmmmmm....
Oh well, the only rule I follow is - basta wedding gown, fabulous! :-D

long gown in Georgette Chiffon (reception look)

the big skirt in taffeta with fully beaded band for the ceremony

Raw Photos by Mango Red
Coordination by Amanda Tirol

Abi

2011-02-04T12:01:00.009+08:00

Ms V!

This is my 5th attempt to post something on your wall. But every time i click Share nawawala ng message ko kaya ill just email it to you. Siguro hindi daw apt ang message ko kaya ayaw ipa-post. I dont know where to begin. Pupunta palang ako ng page mo i get emotional na. All I want to say is how grateful I am that out of all the designers in the world I was able to have you design my wedding gown. My gown exceeded my fantasy. It made me feel beautiful. Its all everyone is talking about. One of my friends even told me its the best she's seen by far. Sabi ko its gonna be the best your gonna see EVER! hahahaha!

Anyway please thank everyone in your shop for me. Everyone made me feel special. I always feel excited and pleased when I go to your shop. Haay. sana pwedeng ikasal ako ulit para pwede pa ako magpunta sa shop mo and have another one of your gowns made. Di bale I told Joey na may 10th year renewal kami in boracay at shempre ikaw parin ang gagawa ng gown ko.

I love you

love,
Abi

awww love you too Abi!! and thank you for the unending trust you and your mom gave me the entire time :-)

Photos by Nelwin Uy

Pinagayon

2011-01-21T17:14:00.014+08:00

It was early last year when Charette, one of my closest friends since puberty, called and asked me to join a fashion show. The last time I joined a full blown show was back in college and I will not admit here how many years ago that was. I was hesitant at first since making clothes for a show is not an easy feat. Entails so much work and the pressure to come up with fabulous gowns just for show is something I do not look forward to, I have that every week, from real brides and for real weddings. I've always felt, and I still do, that the aisle is my catwalk. And my brides, my muse doing my finale.:)

Charette is the only reason I am joining.

I had to find a reason to say no without her cancelling my being her matron of honor at her wedding. But she enticed me more since she said I will only be working with Piña. She knows how much I love the fabric. But then again, I work with it on a regular basis, and gets paid for it pa! Nope, still not it :)

She went on saying that I will be working with Piña woven from Camarines Norte.

Okay.....

Piña has always been synonymous to Aklan so I was surprised when I found out that Camarines Norte is producing the fabric too. I suddenly felt dumb when I found out that Camarines Norte has huge pineapple plantations everywhere and its climate and location is ideal for producing Pineapple. It has one of the most efficient cooperative in producing the fabric, they make it so well, but they just do not know how to market themselves. Charette showed me the material and I must admit, it is beautiful. The yarn has that fresh golden tint and the weaving had that organic nature to it. It was in that perfect quality, just like oldies used to make. It is luxurious and simply beautiful. Sad that their weaving industry is still unrecognized, so many people are left jobless and Camarines Norte still one of the poorest provinces in the country. If only people can be aware of their existence, demand and sales will increase, lives will be better.

Now do I want to be part of it?

How can I say no? :-)

Here are the wedding gowns I made for the Pinagayon Fashion Forecast 2010 that hopefully will encourage brides to look at Piña in a different light - soft and feminine. I dream of that day when brides will feel giddy and priviledged at the thought of wearing one :-)

Now here's the catch, if you need Piña from Camarines Norte, whether the fruit or the fabric, please get in touch with my friend - Charette Regala 09088942215 :-)
Let us support our local weavers :-)

That Moment 6

2010-10-08T13:05:00.005+08:00

This bride is one of the prettiest and most down-to-earth brides I've worked with. She has this beautiful olive skin and a body she has clearly worked hard to achieve. I must admit I admired and hated her for this :-) 25lbs in 2 1/2 months. Oooooh hate her again! hahahaha! We worked really well together. During fittings, we actually had more time smoking and discussing trivial things than the actual work. She'd fit, be happy and will ask me to step out so we can smoke together. Always like that. It was a cool and relaxing routine. Very her :-)

Come wedding day, usual preps, fun yet frenzied :-) Pressure was mounting with the commanding presence of the father of the bride and the hurried phase of just about everyone. Bride's excitement aka nervousness has begun ......

I was in front of the church just waiting and watching everyone when I noticed the window of the bridal car open. My bride peeks and calls me. She was nervously motioning me to puff from my cigarette. She wants to get out of the car and smoke with me. We were gonna do our fitting routine here between the bridal car and the cathedral doors.

"Ay hindi pwede, makikita ka nila, memya na!"
"Naman, ninenerbyos ako sobra, dito ka muna please..... ay hindi, dito ka sa loob, yosi tayo dito, buksan natin yung isang window.. sige na please!"
"okay, okay" I obliged seeing the panic in her face. I think the driver agreed with me as he discreetly stepped out of the car.
I opened the door when I saw the photographer approaching, and just like movie special effects, I emerged from the car in a cloud of smoke with my head spinning. But not my bride. She was nervous in the extreme!!"

"Madami bang tao Ms. V?"
"uhmm, okay naman, di naman masyado.. tama lang :-) That was me trying to calm her down as I gazed through the church doors onto the aisle overflowing with guests.
"Nerbyos ako sobra pero sobra gusto ko naman to eh, love na love ko sya eh, tsaka tama to eh"
"Syempre love mo sya, ano ka ba?!"
"Kaya nga! kaya nga kami papakasal eh! p#%&^.a o! kinakabahan ako!!"
"Sus wag na! Saya nyan, basta tignan mo si groom pag ninenerbyos ka"
"layo nya no!" (may point :-)
"Okay okay, daddy mo o mommy mo!"
"Wag daddy ko! Lalo ako iiyak!"

Then I saw this young man hurriedly approaching the car - "Ate, wala talaga eh!"

"Ha!!!!!! di pwede!!!!!" - my bride's quick reply :)...
"Ke lapad, ke bilog, kahit ano!!!!! isang shot lang! grabe nerbyos ko!!!"
About the same time that the coordinator was asking us to be at the door, a young woman
approached us with a tiny bottle, the hotel room bar kind. My bride took a swig and smiled at me!
"Hahaha ayus!!!!" :)

But no, not yet, at the door, she panicked again, brushing the veil away from her face, I could see that she might faint. She was so beside herself that i had to ask the church coordinators - who are well known sticklers - to please just wait awhile, she might faint I said. The photographer noticed it too. He asked me to just stay beside her a little longer as I had inching away form her so as not to disrupt the shot.

I moved in again and fixed her bouquet while my staff fixed her train and her veil.

"Ms. V, sobrang love ko sya eh.... tsaka love nya ko e.... tsaka gusto ko to eh! gusto ko talaga!"

She was murmuring while shaking her legs :)
"Kaya nga!!! kaya game na!!! Tagal mo na ito inantay. Ano ka ba?!... Game na ha!"
"Aaaaaaaaahhhhh shiiiit! wait... wait...", was her reply.
"Huy game! kaya mo yan! Inaantay ka na dun! Ang saya nyan! Hinga ka malalim! Game! Hey, promise, ang saya saya nyan. Pagkatapos nito, mag-asawa na kayo! Lagi na kayong magkasama! Di ba yun gusto mo?!"

"Tama.. tama... love ko sya eh.. sobra. tsaka love nya ko! Sya talaha.." and she smiled at me.

With that we signaled the coordinator to open the door.

"Don't move muna ha... wait for the door to open completely..."
"Love nya ko........ love ko sya sobra.... game.... game...."

She took her 1st step nervously with her eyes on me. I was holding my breath without knowing it.

I whispered, "look at your groom, he's there...."
She smiled and I felt her calm. Finally :)

She was a sight. I cried when she kissed and hugged her dad.
And laughed with her when she saw her groom :)

I miss her :)

Darlene

2010-08-18T09:46:00.000+08:00

Time and again, I am asked - Will the gown be heavy? Will it be difficult to move wearing the gown? Can I dance with my gown? Can I carry my train easily?

And I say - "The gown will be heavy, but glamorously heavy..." - with my sweetest smile ever :-)
I get mix reactions, some are amused and gets all giddy, others become more hesitant.
So there goes my endless litanya of

"When else will you wear a train if not at your wedding?"
"Kaya mo yun!"
"Para 20 yards lang ang tela na 4 layers?!? tsaka beads na sangkatutak, ano naman ang mabigat dun?"
"Ay tiis ganda naman, minsan lang eh!" :-)

Now no need to do that. I will just introduce them to Darlene :-)
Darlene went to the church on a trike but before hitting that, she ran.
She ran wearing an all lace gown with a tulle overlay and several layers of fabric underneath.
So who said its difficult to move in a wedding gown?
Nope, not Darlene.

LOVE her! :-)

Here's the excitement-inducing pictures of Oly Ruiz of Metro Photo and his take on what transpired that day.

And the fun fun fun video of MG Digital :

Gboy & Darlene from Mervin Gobaco on Vimeo.

Bride's narration of what happened and how she felt that day.

Congratulations Darlene! You are definitely one of the coolest bride I've worked with :-)

Oh and kudos to Eddie Bruan for a job very well done.

Niko, moving on

2010-07-19T20:04:00.002+08:00

From this day, Niko for Veluz is no more.
But this is not the end, but a happy beginning :-)
I believe I've trained him well and it's time for him to move on.
Just like a son on his 21st birthday.
Time to move out of the house.
And find his own place in the sun :-)

He will have his own shop and he will be making gowns too, this time as Niko Hernandez
Make me proud Niko! :-)

Oh but for the existing Niko for Veluz brides he will still be here to finish your gowns
And I will still be there to check on your final fitting :-)

My Brides by Jayson and Joanne Arquiza

2010-07-03T11:48:00.014+08:00

loving the clean and crisp look of Jayson and Joanne's pictures :-)

Therese
Video by Jason Magbanua
Hair and Make up by Tatin Yang
Coordination by Rita Neri

Zigrid

Video by Threelogy
Coordination by Events by Clarice
Hair and Make up by Jesy Alto of The Color Artistry

Michelle

Video by Jason Magbanua

Mitchy and James: SDE from Jason Magbanua on Vimeo.

Escie

Video by Bob Nicolas

Rudy+Escie from Escie Santos on Vimeo.

Coordination by Events by Clarice
Hair and Make-up by Val Villarin

My Brides by Jeff and Lisa

2010-06-15T12:31:00.017+08:00

indulge yourself in the "modern vintage romantic" photos from Jeff and Lisa.
i'm in love. . . :-)

Marie Ann

Sam

AJ

Veronique

My Brides by Pat Dy

2010-06-02T11:28:00.021+08:00

I have a huge folder of brides I've been wanting to blog, counted them earlier and the numbers are not a pretty sight anymore :-(
I had to find a common denominator so I can post them in groups, and the simplest form I found is /photographer :-)

so let's start with the very fashionable and passionate photos from the Pat Dy.

Leah

Abi

Josh

April

Hazel

Marie

2010-03-21T09:36:00.019+08:00

Marie's wedding is definitely one of the most beautiful weddings I've been to. My jaw dropped when I saw the venue for the wedding reception that I had to text my husband, that if we were to get married again, we will have to do it here, that perfect spot, that perfect way.

The reception venue is straight out of a Rogelio dela Rosa - Carmen Rosales film in black and white. Imagine a huge tree as the centerpiece, with branches forming a protective canopy over the dining area. Tables were candle-lit, arranged around it on a wooden deck for the sit-down dinner. A string band provided the soft music that meld perfectly with ocean's gentle waves. Red and white wine were served while guests lingered with smoked fish turon and spanish tapa. And like an afterthought, is that familiar provincial scent that completed the experience.

It was so beautiful.
It was surreal.
The simplicity, quaintness and romance of the entire event just stunned me. And Marie planned everyting :-) I felt so proud of her, of being there and having her as my bride.

here she is on her wedding day -
funny note - Marie got married to Javier who is Spanish, as expected, there were gorgeous Spanish guys around :-) Part of their culture is to bring the bouquet to the bride and recite a poem to Marie. Love it!

especially when Kosi, Angie Cruz' assistant, exclaimed - "andyan na ang mga Kastila! sasakupin tayo!!! Dali, pasakop tayo!" hahahahah! :-)

Beautiful raw and edited photos by Jeff and Lisa
Video by Phoeben Teocson
Hair and Make up by Angie Cruz and Ogie Rayel

javier & marie - highlights from phoeben teocson on Vimeo.

My Ondoy Brides

2010-03-17T16:02:00.003+08:00

This has been in my draft folder for the longest time :-(

I've been wanting to post a blow-by-blow account of what happened that day but just couldn't find the time nor the words to aptly describe what happened. I wanted to share the ordeals my staff had to go through just to be able to dress up these brides, some failed and some made it just in time. I wanted to share how courageously these two faced the day and with such admirable grace. I guess, there's not enough words, just feelings. Everyone in Manila felt the wrath of Ondoy anyway, so why bother reiterating it. But come to think of it, can we actually imagine how these brides really felt? Probably not for sure, but never mind. They looked totally beautiful, and they got married to their chosen one. Perhaps not exactly how they planned it to be, but equally meaningful and definitely more memorable :-)

Jamie

Photos by Paul Vincent
Video by Threelogy

Neil & Jamie from Bong Sare on Vimeo.

Marion

Raw Photos by Terry Uy

Karen

2010-03-08T15:49:00.008+08:00

Karen was referred to me by Mimi and Karl and I couldn't thank them enough.
Aside from working with the industry's best - them, Ernest, Madge and Threelogy, Karen is such a delight to work with, mild-mannered, proper, no-fuss and just pleasant, not an ounce of bridezilla genes in her blood.
She lost 4 inches off her waist from the time we last fitted to two weeks before the wedding, but what's 4 inches among friends :-D
Nah, seriously, couldn't thank them enough, coz I had the chance to make this -

love love love the way Madge used the gown's trimmings as hair accents. Mental note - if with Madge, bring as much materials as possible, you wouldn't know what she'll come up with :-)

Karl is the groom's high school batchmate and college orgmate, so yes, they're pretty tight :-) And this slideshow is M+K's gift for them, one of my fave of all their works.

Jasper and Karen from Karl de Leon on Vimeo.

love the song, perfect for the beautiful images
haaaaay, kainggit! :-)

Photos by Mimi and Karl
Video by Threelogy
Hair and Make up by Madge Lejano / The Make Up Studio
Details and Event Coordination by Ernest Pascual / Events Events

Kite, not yet a bride

2010-03-02T14:30:00.000+08:00

I used to make children's clothes for some specialty stores more than a decade ago.
And sometimes, I do miss it :-)

This post is dedicated to the stage father :-)

Photos by Erron Ocampo
Hair and Make up by Jesy Alto

Angelica

2010-02-27T13:41:00.013+08:00

This is a classic gown with a shrug.
But then again, its the details that matter :-)

Hi Veluz,

I just want to thank you again for the dream wedding gown and the suit you made for us. It was really really really nice!! We love it and everybody does by the way:) Job well done as well as for all your staff,they have all been nice!! Again,thank you for making all the girls' dream come true:) Mwwaaaah!

Regards,

Tristan and Angel Capalla

Photos by Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto
Video by Jason Magbanua
Hair and Make up by Madge Lejano

Jeng

2010-02-25T16:24:00.010+08:00

We started out pretty awkward when we first met. There was a monstrous racket outside the shop courtesy of the Water Company which made it difficult for us to talk, the airconditioner wasn't running properly and the shop was still undone - we just moved in that time. The general ambiance was therefore quite uncomfortable. I sketched outside the office and presented it to her in the fitting room :-) I wasn't really sure if there was a connection between us but she seemed to like the design. She didn't outright reject it but she did ask one thing -
" Uhmmm makinang ba yan? Hindi kasi ako si simple and elegant eh. Ako si budburan mo ng Swarovski ha! kasi di ba? bakit naman ako magve-veluz pa kung simple lang pala yung gusto ko?! :-)"

Ayyyyy hahahaha! I love her! and yes, I suddenly felt the connection :-)

Here she is on her wedding day -

Photos by Nelwin Uy
Video by Threelogy
Hair and Make up by Jesy Alto and Raymond Ko of The Color Artistry
Coordination by Events by Clarice

Additional photos by Calvin Lee :

Kathy and my other bride

2010-02-18T09:21:00.019+08:00

Dear Veluz,

It took me awhile to write this email, mainly because every time i attempt to start writing it i just well up. "Thank you" is not enough to tell you how grateful i am to God that you were part of one of the most important days of my life and bindoy's as well. I feel that those words are too simple, but then, they sum up what i really want to say.

Thank you...for being part of the team that made our day extra special. God is really so great in you, He has gifted you with so much talent, and you use it so well. From the start of our wedding preps, when bindoy asked me who i wanted to make my wedding gown, i showed him your blog, and told him that i visit it so much that i memorized all your posts! haha! Like when we'd be at the mall and i'd recognize one of your brides i'd go "Veluz bride yan, 2007!" haha i guess that was more than enough to convince him i really wanted you. And he said that he would compromise on everything except on you, i had to have a veluz gown and that was it. No discussions. Period. (don't ya just love him??? :) heehee)

And that's not all, when it came to mommy's gown, he said the same thing. He wanted you to make the gown for mom, although we knew it was going to be a risk to ask you to do it, he said we should at least try and ask. He wanted this to be our gift to my mom. And you know what, wala talaga imposible kay Lord heehee, sinamahan namin ng dasal and of course my mom's pacute convincing powers, and you said yes! Needless to say, everyone loved the dress!! my dad cried when he saw me in it, and everyone, as in every single person we talk to about the wedding 'til today still can't stop talking about the dress. They all say "it was soooo beautiful, and sooo you!"

How do i say thank you to a person who made not only me happy, but my mom as well? if only you saw her prancing around the reception showing off her dress, telling every one proudly that it was made by you. How do i thank someone who went over and beyond what i dreamed the dress would be? who took time into each detail, who made sure every single stitch was in place...thank you for not only treating me and my mom as clients...we really felt you were like family to us.

I will never forget how you never left me while i was so nervous outside the church, kept me calm and smiling through all my nerves. How you said, "this is your moment, just look at your groom". and when the doors opened, and i started to walk, i saw you go inside the church and wait up there at the altar, you waited til i was there up in front...sniff...you made sure that i was ok before you left. I don't think you even knew that i saw you, but i did :) and my mom did too...sabi nya, na-gulat sya that you stayed til i reached the altar, bait mo daw talaga :) (amen to that!)

You were God's gift to us that day, thank you for being the best at what you do, for putting your heart into each design, for being a most generous and loving person.

I am forwarding to you my mom's thank you note :) every time people talk about my dress...she always says "maganda rin yung damit ko, si veluz din gumawa nun!" hahaha 2nd bride talaga! :)

Thank you thank you thank you!

Kathy

Dear Veluz,

Everyone said I looked so pretty during Kathy's wedding because of my beautiful gown! I really felt that I was Bride # 2! Thank you so much! All my relatives and friends were asking who made my gown, and of course, I told them it was you. Galing mo daw talaga - Amen to that! :))

Tita Tess

Real and Heartfelt Photos by Mimi and Karl
Video by Threelogy

Bindoy and Kathy from Bong Sare on Vimeo.

Coordination by Teena Baretto of Hitched
Hair and Make up by Gela Laurel

Jill

2010-01-30T11:15:00.002+08:00

It wasn't really love at first sight when I first met her.
She's very pretty but she seemed like a rich spoiled bratty girl with a red Ferragamo headband and a gorgeous fiance - the type of girl everyone likes to hate (of envy) :-)
But she's not a dumb blonde, she's a doctor! how can someone be so lucky?!?
She wanted lace... lots and lots of lace and lots of detailing.
I drew a sketch and computed the costs.
Then presented it to them, and just like my usual line, handed the quote with "think about it first po ha"
and then she said - "ah no need, you're my non-negotiable" with the sweetest smile ever.
My heart melted, and from that minute on, I was in love with her :-)

Months passed and I've loved every minute with her. She was continuously losing weight, her determination is really admirable. It was a production nightmare but she was such a delight to work with, that it didn't feel like work at all.
There was even one time that she blurted out after a very fun fitting - "hay naku, I really love it here, this is such a happy place talaga"
to which my staff replied - "ay!! Mcdo ito! pakiantay lang po ang mascot, s'ya po sa final fitting! :-) hahahaha!

Her wedding day is exactly my birthday and I told her from the day she inquired that I can't be there at her wedding, but somehow I couldn't bear the thought of not seeing her at her most precious day. And it was all worth it, she was soooo beautiful and she looked perfect. ... as she so lovingly put it, "blog-worthy" :-)

entourage gowns by Niko
Choy's Suit by Randy Ortiz
Hair and Make up by Gela Laurel
Awesome pictures by Pat Dy
Stylish coordination by Ernest Pascual of Events!Events
Video by Bob Nicolas

Choy and Jill from Bob Nicolas on Vimeo.

2010

2010-01-26T12:55:00.003+08:00

I am very very thankful for all the inquiries I am getting.
I feel so blessed to be given this much trust from brides.
I cannot thank all of you enough.
But I am closing bookings for 2010.
This is to give way to all my overseas brides who are waiting patiently for the sketches. To all those who've been waiting, I have temporarily pencil booked all of you until I've given you the sketch and the costs and the option to refuse me. :-)
For those who've already set schedules with Gercel, we will proceed as per sked.
But from this date, I will no longer be accepting inquiries for the entire year.

Again, I am very very thankful, but I can only do so much :-)

Jamie

2010-01-09T11:09:00.010+08:00

She was in a crisp, casual white when I met her and wearing blings that were so well put together.
Her arm candy was tall, dashing and definitely her best accessory that time :-)
She had no pegs on hand, but I knew instantly what would suit her.
She can pull it off, only her....
Once in awhile, I get that feeling, of knowing one person instantly - felt it when I met her.
I can feel my excitement inside but I had to make small talk so I asked her what her color or theme would be and she said, plum and green.
"No, you're not!" Oops! there goes my being proper, my mouth got ahead of me :-(
She raised her eyebrow a bit, so I said, "Please, just give this a shot."
I gave her this -

Photo by Mango Red

She is undeniably pink and black, perfect balance of strength and femininity.
I was almost finished sketching the dress, when she suddenly blurted out - "don't show it to me!! Oh my God! I won't be able to sleep!!
hahahaha!

I knew then that I was right, she is pink and black :-)

here's their awesome video by Phoeben Teocson

albert & jamie - same day edit from phoeben teocson on Vimeo.

and some photos from her sister :

Blessed new year everyone!

Vanessa

2009-12-16T16:57:00.012+08:00

Nope, this is not a photo shoot.
This is a real wedding and she's a real bride.
An absolutely gorgeous bride :-)

I love that he calls her Amor
And she calls him Mahal :-)

Photos by Nelwin Uy
Video by Jason Magbanua
Coordination by The 3rd Party

Ginny

2009-12-04T12:50:00.008+08:00

She said she wants a different kind of Filipiniana.
I said - "yehey!!!"

and this is what we came up with :

love the entourage gowns too! made by Rosalyn Lagdameo

I'm a huge fan of Ginny's dad, so imagine my "kilig" when he tapped me on the shoulder and said - "good job... good job" I wanted to hug him - "tenchu dad!" ahahahah! :-)

Photos by Nelwin Uy
Video by MG Digital
Hair and Make up by Jessie Glova
Coordination by : Right Connect Weddings

Father of the Bride

2009-12-03T09:32:00.005+08:00

Deonah is one lovely bride and definitely, her daddy's girl.
Naiyak ako!
I suddenly miss my dad after watching the video.
Come on brides, give the 1st man who ever loved you a big tight hug. :-)

Deonah
Photos by Dino Lara
Video by MG Digital

Walter & Deonah from Mervin Gobaco on Vimeo.

Smart Cookies III

2009-10-13T14:37:00.009+08:00

More projects from other Smart Cookies :-)

Photo : Nelwin Uy
Video : Jason Magbanua
Hair and Make Up : Toto Bagamasbad

Kristine

----------------

Photo : Jeff and Lisa Photography
Video : Phoeben Teocson
Hair and Make Up : EJ Litiaco

Joey

-----------------------

Photographer - Erron Ocampo for Imagine Nation Photography
Coordination - Just Like Ours
Hair and Make up - Jesy Alto of The Color Artistry

Therese
----------------------
Photo : Nelwin Uy
Video : MG Digital
Hair and Make Up : Madge Lejano and Felicity Son of The Make Up Studio

Diana

Smart Cookie(s) II

2009-10-07T18:05:00.028+08:00

I was working on my Smart Cookies Part II and found myself linking Oly's site 4 times!
Anuvah!! :-)
He can fill one solid post with his beautiful photos.
And so why not?
He is a Smart Cookie after all :-)

Here are Oly's works, which in my opinion definitely deserve straight As :-)

Photographer - Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto
Hair and Make Up - Madge Lejano of The Make Up Studio
Coordination - Ernest Pascual of Events! Events!

Tania
--------------------

Photographer - Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto
Videographer - Jason Magbanua
Hair and Make Up - Madge Lejano of The Make Up Studio
Coordination - Events By Clarice

Sharon

------------------------

Post Nup Photographer - Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto
Post Nup Hair and Make Up - Madela and Steve of The Make Up Studio
Coordination - Ernest Pascual of Events! Events!

Heidi the Diva :-) she got Mimi and Karl as her photogs naman for the pre-nup and wedding. Pictures to follow in my next post. Ayaw nya ng top caliber photogs no? Di siya adik sa pictures, promise :-)

----------------------

Photographer - Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto
Hair and Make Up - Peddy Acebo
Coordination - Events By Clarice

Leslie's Wedding

Leslie's Post Nup

Gmail

2009-09-28T12:03:00.004+08:00

This is what I get when I open my email -

"You have run out of space for your Gmail account. You will not be able to send or receive any emails until you delete some items."

and I did, masunurin naman ako eh ...
deleted 3500 messages, but it's still there :-(
so I opened another account.
here's my new email address -

veluzbride@gmail.com

for those who've been emailing me or waiting for sketches, please use the new one.
thank you :-)

Smart Cookies

2009-09-05T12:09:00.001+08:00

I was helping my daughter make a 3D model of a volcano a few weeks ago, I asked her to make it on her own and just improve on it later. It turned out okay, more like a hill with a small spout on top :-( she got so frustrated. I told her let's do it all over again. Her jaw dropped, but she started working on it again. If she's not completely happy with it then do it all over again. You have to give it your best. It turned out pretty well if I may so myself, complete with some orange colored lava :-) It turned out one of the best in her class. She was ecstatic!

"Mommyyy!!! para kong Smart Cookie!" (they call the honor students in their class Smart Cookies) then innocently she asked -
"I'm like you mommy no? inuulit mo lagi yung gowns?!"

"ngyak! juice mio!..hindi naman! pag pangit lang!"
"yeah, but you do it di ba? hanggang maging pretty?!"
may point sya...

I love making gowns! It's as fun as playing with your favorite doll, dressing her up and making sure she's so pretty your friends will die envious :-) It's like making the best project in school so good that the teacher will acknowledge it in front of the class, that even if you're not the smartest, you get to be at par with the school's smarties. It's like getting a Best in .... uhmm Home Economics?!?! or Best in Spelling?!!? maybe trivial to some, but still worthy of a medal. Bakit ba?! eh may best kaya! :-)

You get up on stage, stand beside the school geeks, and just feel triumphant. In my case, I work sooo hard in improving my craft that I find myself side by side with the industry's geeks... errr the industry's best :-) Am I lucky or what?!?

Here are sample works of the Smart Cookies, in no particular order :-), and their lucky and intelligent brides :-)

Claricel
Photographer - Dino Lara

Videographer - Threelogy

Charnel and Claricel from Bong Sare on Vimeo.

Coordination - Ernest Pascual of Events!Events!

Hair and Make up by Eddie Bruan

Camille

Photographer : Mimi and Karl

Videographer - Jason Magbanua

Camille and Rey from Jason Magbanua on Vimeo.

Hair and Make up by Cathy Cantada

Jan Li
Photographer : Pat Dy
Videographer : Phoeben Teocson

Kat
Photographer : Paul Vincent
- love that this wedding was a year ago! :-)
Coordination by Just Like Ours

Gina
Photographer : John Mateos Ong
Hair and Make Up : Madge Lejano of the Make Up Studio
Coordination by Events by Clarice

- stay tuned for more projects with other Smart Cookies :-)

Abet

2009-08-30T11:33:00.006+08:00

nope, he's not a bride
he's the driver and it's his birthday!
at aangkas ako, angkas na!

Birthday from Bong Sare on Vimeo.

Happy birthday!

Vilma

2009-08-18T13:33:00.009+08:00

Hi Ms. V,

Here are the pics I promised you and Niko. I'm so sorry it took such a long time. I had to organize and edit them pa. Ang hirap isabay sa mga to-do's ng newlywed.

Your gown was truly beautiful and extraordinary! Everyone kept asking who made it. It was certainly more than I wished for. I cannot imagine the amount of work you put into it. Biruin mo 100++ yards of tulle hand stitched to the skirt. The guests had to touch and examine the skirt themselves, sobrang kakaiba daw! Pati yung beadwork ang ganda-ganda, yung fit din especially, yung concept...

And working with your team is such a dream. Everyone was very nice and accommodating -- it's true what everyone says about the Veluz team.

Thank you for the experience of creating my gown with you. It's one of the moments I'll cherish most when I remember my wedding. You were a part of the happiest day of my life. Saya-saya nung buong wedding! You truly make every bride beautiful -- such a wonderful gift.

Vilma

Hair and Make-up by Angie Cruz and Ogie Rayel

Chrish

2009-08-03T18:25:00.007+08:00

Hi Ma'am Veluz,

I'm RJ, the then fiance (now husband) of Christina Hoyumpa. :)

The moment I saw her up close and beside me at the altar, I knew I had to write this letter. I wanted to personally thank you so much for creating such an exquisite gown for my wife...making Chrish even more beautiful on our wedding day. During the ceremony, I couldn't help but look at her from time to time, she was simply breathtaking...of course, all praises followed about her gown and how lovely she was during the reception. And if you asked if she was happy about her gown? VERY..:)

From the great staff that helped her since day one (Niko, Gercel, etc.) to the free coffee every fitting day, thank you so much for making my wife not only stunning, but also the happiest woman on our wedding day...and that, to me, was all that mattered. :)

Again, thank you so much and Godbless. :)

RJ

PS...i've attached some awesome pics by Mimi+Karl. :)
PPS...and thanks for pushing me to wear a suit...:)

Photos by Mimi and Karl
Video by Threelogy
Coordination by Jody Liwanag of Events Experts

Tonel

2009-07-14T13:22:00.002+08:00

Tonel is one of the easiest and sweetest bride I've worked with.
She'll text me each and everytime we fit expressing her gratitude for being my bride.
It was overwhelming.
She was so in love with her gown, she named it Marguerithe.
Love her!

Look at Niko in the following pictures.
Ayaw nya ng pictures talaga, di sya mahilig magpose eh ehehehe :-)

Hair and Make up by Madge Lejano / The Make Up Studio

Photos by Mangored
Coordination by Just Like Ours

Oh and it was my first time to work with Mayad and it made me look forward to more :-)
Their onsite video.

Janice

2009-07-08T13:01:00.006+08:00

veluz!! until now I'm gushing over my wedding gown pictures!!! It still makes me teary eyed esp when I saw my husband and dad's face when they saw me. All my guests came up to me to have a closer look at the dress, I got jealous! hahaha! You made every girl that night want to get married. I really can't thank you enough :-)

Thank you for taking care of me and all of your other brides. May God bless you more --

Janice

Carina

2009-07-08T12:54:00.005+08:00

Photos by Mimi and Karl
Coordination by Amanda Tirol

NIKO FOR VELUZ

2009-06-12T19:47:00.002+08:00

It's up! finally :-)
Please do check Niko's work
Proud of him :-)

NIKO FOR VELUZ

Gisela

2009-06-12T15:09:00.013+08:00

hi ms. v, i've been wanting to send you a note after our december wedding, but work really demanded and is still very much demanding time from me after our wedding, i have but few words to say (although long overdue) i can't even think of the most eloquent words to describe how i felt when i saw what i describe as a classic creation of yours, very simple yet stunningly elegant bridal gown, and oh i so love everything :)
my deepest gratitude to you (your brilliant mind and the execution of every gown you make) and to your wonderful and accomodating team especially to niko and gercel, i simply adore you :) i wish you all the best and i am pretty sure that your lovely brides in the future will experience the same happiness and satisfaction as we, your past brides, experienced as we walked down the aisle wearing one of your gorgeous pieces :) here are some (but lots) of pics of my beautiful bridal gown, it's been five months and i am still getting compliments from friends and relatives here and even abroad!:) and i give all the credits to you, my long-sleeved blouse was certainly my best accessory :) plus the long train... perfect :) Gisela

Jaybee

2009-06-12T12:54:00.013+08:00

I really want to blog stories about my recent brides but I just can’t find the time to do so.

In lieu of stories, let me share their love letters. I’m getting a lot of it lately and its turning me all giddy :-)

Hi Ms. V!

Hello! It's been a while.

Ayaw pa ako bumaba sa pagka high ko sa wedding eh, its been almost a month. Kahit na i was back working na a few weeks back pa, i'm still in dreamy dream land about everything.

Ms. V, a million thanks to you and to every one of your crew for making my most beautiful gown. Everyone said it was so beautiful, and I was so beautiful. haha. But I really felt at my best with my gown. Feeling ko princess ako. (feeling wow, looking wow!) haha. From the moment I put it on, there was something. At first I felt really nervous, hirap tuloy magsmile for the pictorial. After a while, feel na feel ko na pagka princess ko. haha. When I got to the hotel lobby, everyone was looking at me. On the way to the chapel to meet my prince, people in cars passing me by were waving at me with amazed smiles, and wave back naman ako. hehehe.

Thanks also for being there to help me dress up (and to Niko and the ates). It really meant a lot to me. Earlier during the day when dumating sila Niko lang without you, I felt a bit disappointed but later dumating ka, I was so happy. And thank you for seeing me off at the chapel. I really appreciate you being there. Kahit na I might not have shown it because I was feeling nervous na, with the door waiting, the music playing and my groom waiting, I really am so thankful that you were there to support me. Thanks po talaga.

Anyway, I'm glad to report that both moms were very happy with the gown. My mom was very, very happy. Likewise, my mother in law was very impressed. And everyone -- the ninangs, guests, suppliers from the photo, video and even caterer were awed with my gown.

Ako, i super love my gown. When people say 'your gown is so beautiful', I say, 'yes, it is... ayluveet!' I got the proofs of the pictures na from m+k and super maya't maya tinitignan ko talaga. Eh yun nga lang pictures from my fitting (my second to the final fitting), I look at it always, kung pwede lang magasgas ang picture. In fact, my mom wants to do a sort of postnup, to take portraits of the family in our wedding day attire, and I am so excited!!! I'm gonna wear my gown again! =)

But the best part of it all, my favorite part of the whole wedding, is the walk down the aisle. My wedding has had its minor glitches here and there. For the super oc bride that I am (almost all my suppliers noticed my oc-ness), that would have been a disaster. But just thinking about my walk down the aisle, feeling like a princess walking down to her prince and all the smiling faces looking at me, and seeing my crying groom, that makes everything perfect. The first thing my groom said to me when we met was, "kainis ka, pinaiyak mo ako, you are so beautiful." That stretch of moment, that's my dream wedding. Nothing that might have gone wrong could ruin that perfect moment. I am gonna cherish that for the rest of my life. Thanks ms. V for being a very big part of that very special moment in our life. Thanks at pinaiyak mo groom ko. haha.

Cya, cge na, naiiyak nako eh. haha.

Thanks again Ms. Veluz, Niko and all the ates. And I miss you all. Pwede ba mag visit diyan sometimes? Please? Promise, di ako mang gugulo. =)

Jaybee Valle-Sison

photos by Mimi and Karl

Kristine

2009-06-06T09:01:00.011+08:00

Kristine is probably the most relaxed bride we've worked with.
She is so relaxed that everyone else did the panicking for her. :-)

She moved her wedding date three months earlier, that left us with just two months to finish her gown. She was smiling sheepishly when she told me about it, not a hint of panic, just sweetness. Now how can I get mad at her?!

She wanted Blahnik or Choos for her shoes, and she got one the night before her wedding, just before the store closed. Did I mention her wedding is at 10AM?

She started her preps very late on her wedding day that brought her coordinators to frenzy and she assured them while smiling, that everything will be okay! Juice ko, baliktad na ba ang mundo?!!

Before she even walked down the aisle, she saw some guests hurriedly walking to the church, saw her and apologized for being late and she giggly said - "hey! it's okay, I'm waiting for you talaga eh!" kakaloka!

And just before That moment, like I always do, I told her "walk slowly ha, enjoy your moment".... the door opened with her saying softly - "don't worry, I will"

And oh my! she did. She had the most graceful walk I've seen.
She was a sight.
All panic faded at the sight of her.
She glided.
Shoulders straight, chest out
Glanced left and right, acknowledging her guests.
She even laughed softly when she saw her groom crying.
She was awesome
The guests applauded.

Jason captured it perfectly and his team's onsite video couldn't be any better. It fitted her to a T.

Madge made her smoky eyes which absolutely made her look stunning even for a morning wedding.

Ms. Rita Neri handled the day long event, with authority that is just right for her. I even remember Kristine mentioning a couple of times during our fittings how right Ms. Rita is for her - giving her direction and organization, coz she absolutely has none! hahahaha! I believe so too. I would've made her stand in the corner, or a slap in the bun had I been her coordinator. hehehe :-)

Here she is on her wedding day -
Beautiful pictures again by Mimi and Karl