There I was trying on my mom's earrings and using her mirror and the same mirror I held today to do some last minute touch ups. Thanks mom!
December 15, 2008
mirror ... mirror...
There I was trying on my mom's earrings and using her mirror and the same mirror I held today to do some last minute touch ups. Thanks mom!
Candid Shots!!!
here are some more highlights from our wedding:
http://picasaweb.google.com/AlvesM/WeddingPhotos?authkey=wLiu-r177-k
December 1, 2008
Thank You card inspiration
This was a carpet pattern I came across online and thought it was beautiful and simple. The design of the rug has a cut-paper style that caught my eyes and I wanted to implement some of the floral elements on my invitations (Chinese invite). To tied in the same design, I used it again on the Thank You cards.
Thank You cards are done!... well almost...
finally i'm almost done with our thank you cards :-) for those who are cking out our blog page - thank you for reading and i'm sorry that it has taken us this long to THANK YOU. It has been really busy with us since we got back from our month long honeymoon and one thing lead to another things are piling up but we're catching up. We like to thank all of our friends and family for celebrating our big day with us and all of your best wishes and lots of gifts we really appreciated! I will be posting some behind the scene wedding pictures so look for yourself on this site - you just might be tagged. we hope to see some of you soon!
October 2, 2008
July 28, 2008
Abount Hunger
When we first looked into wedding favors we came across many silly useless products.... so we looked into charity donations. We wanted to give something back to our community back to OakTown - East Bay baby!!! We started with our search with www.justgive.org and then narrow it down and selected Alameda County Community Food Bank.
We have donated 1,000 meals on May 31, 2008 behalf of you. We hope you too will look into supporting your local or international charity organizations.
Did you know each month, tens of thousands of low-income Alameda County residents cannot afford well-balanced meals for themselves and their families. Many never imagined they would need to request food assistance, but barren cupboards and empty pockets have led them to local soup kitchens and food pantries.
We have donated 1,000 meals on May 31, 2008 behalf of you. We hope you too will look into supporting your local or international charity organizations.
Paper Assembly Line
here's an image of the "Save the Date" assembly line... lots of stuffing and sealing - look out for paper cuts and don't forget to sort the English and Portuguese cards.
Monogram Shortbread Cookies
Finally i have some time now to update you on some of our fun wedding planning do's and don't and behind the scene...
Sweet Adeline Bake Shop in Berkeley have made my wedding cake and many other desserts that day such as Mango Cream Puffs and Monogram shortbread cookies. I have originally thought of making the cookies out out this custom rubber stamp design I've designed (see it... we're always leaning on each other hahahhaaa!!!) but it was unsuccessful... so i guess it will just be a rubber stamp.
Sweet Adeline Bake Shop in Berkeley have made my wedding cake and many other desserts that day such as Mango Cream Puffs and Monogram shortbread cookies. I have originally thought of making the cookies out out this custom rubber stamp design I've designed (see it... we're always leaning on each other hahahhaaa!!!) but it was unsuccessful... so i guess it will just be a rubber stamp.
July 25, 2008
Sale @ Gump's!?!
yep- i was the lucky one to walked passed the sales window last week and found Eva Zeisel's ceramic pieces for sale! i just couldn't believe it!!! her pieces are beautiful-- the graceful and sensual curves (you should see the water pitcher, it reminded me of my wedding dress) and i'm getting it at a sale price- i can't pass that up... so with out a doubt or a call to my new husband- i (we) bought a few vases and a sugar/cream set!!! i can't wait to have you over for tea time!
July 24, 2008
we are back!
i think some of you don't even know we have a wedding blog page... i guess we should of had our blog address bigger on the invitation. Anyhoo-- we're gonna do that on the thank you cards... maybe you just might to see yourself online or hear more about us (lovers!!-hahhaaa).
for those of you who came to our wedding -- a big thank you and we hope you had a good time, like we did... and for those who couldn't make it --- sorry you missed it and i hope this site will show you a little about what we have been up to and call me we should do lunch :-)
so we're back....
things are kinda back to norm... (we miss South America already) still got presents in our living room with no place to store it... we'll have to make some room in our closet or garage. i have all the wedding cards on display, so when we wash dishes in the kitchen we are reminded of your wishes :-) thanks! slowly we're catching up on bills and laundry - The next big task is to review our 1200 wedding pictures and over 2000 honeymoon pictures of South America... so lots to do.
June 14, 2008
hola from buenos aries
while marco watches the Euro soccer 2008 game... i have a few minutes to update our honeymoon. we took off from SF on Wed. 6/3 to south america, but our flight was canceled in Atlanta for a day so we hung out and explored the city and we visited the world of coca-cola company and tasted 73 beverages from all over the world. it was really really hot in atlanta like 92 when we got there.... then we flew to Santiago and arrived 7.30 in the morning and it was like winter weather where we can see our breath. we rented a car and drove to the country side 1 hour from santiago and visited a little village where they make all the chilean ceramics. did you know that people don´t really get up until 10 or 11am. we waited in our white little car... like a ford focus and waited for the town to be awake. then finally we got some Pan (bread) for 180 pesos for 2 (like 25 cents) and boy it was plain-plain bread. then we drove to a little beach town called Valparaiso and we were there for 2 nights visiting neighboring towns such as Vina del Mar-love both places and it was so relaxing there. the weather was a lot warmer like low 70´s still need a jacket at night, but by the time we left it go really cold so i had to buy a sweater. then off we go and drove back to santiago and exploring the city it took us all afternoon exploring all the little towns and finally santiago!!! the semi- big city. we were there for about another 2 nights in bellavista and took the subway everywhere. from santiago you can see some snow caps on the mountains of the andes which then we took a bus ride to Argentina.
the bus ride was about 8 hours to mendoza, a winery town but during this time ppl come here to ski. we drove through the andes in the snow then down the mountain ( we were asleep). we where there for 1 night and there wasn´t much there other than Malbec wines which we had - yum!!! then we got on another bus ride to Buenos Aries.... yes a 20 hours ride....not knowing that they stopped at 10 little villages with many passengers getting on and off the bus even 2am in the morning (marco!!!!.....) finally we are here in buenos aries after eating lots of jamon with queso (ham cheese sandwiches) i was ready for some really yumming food in the big city!!! so we´ve been here for 2 days now and tonight we are going to see a tango dinner-show ;) it should be lots of fun!!! with all this traveling we are both now sick... got a little cold. the weather changes from town to town, bus to bus,,, our poor bodies.... but another glass of wine and a warm blanket should be fine.
until then... adios!
the bus ride was about 8 hours to mendoza, a winery town but during this time ppl come here to ski. we drove through the andes in the snow then down the mountain ( we were asleep). we where there for 1 night and there wasn´t much there other than Malbec wines which we had - yum!!! then we got on another bus ride to Buenos Aries.... yes a 20 hours ride....not knowing that they stopped at 10 little villages with many passengers getting on and off the bus even 2am in the morning (marco!!!!.....) finally we are here in buenos aries after eating lots of jamon with queso (ham cheese sandwiches) i was ready for some really yumming food in the big city!!! so we´ve been here for 2 days now and tonight we are going to see a tango dinner-show ;) it should be lots of fun!!! with all this traveling we are both now sick... got a little cold. the weather changes from town to town, bus to bus,,, our poor bodies.... but another glass of wine and a warm blanket should be fine.
until then... adios!
June 3, 2008
April 18, 2008
It's Tammy's Birthday!!!!!
yep... it's my birthday!!! We celebrated my birthday at my aunt Therese's house and had dinner at one of my favorite chinese restaurant Darda in Milpitas.
April 15, 2008
Heath Ceramics is having a Sale!
To redeem, take a printout of this.
Heath Ceramics, 400 Gate 5 Road, between Coloma Street and Harbor Drive, Sausalito (415-332-3732 or heathceramics.com).
*Deal valid through April 22, in-store only.
April 9, 2008
February 29, 2008
bon-bons!
Marco's mom have mailed us some candies from Portugal, which we will be serving at the dessert table. Can you guess which ones have we chosen?
February 19, 2008
i HEART day !!!
We both had to work late on 2/14 :-( so we celebrated over the weekend. I cooked Jamie Oliver's "Superb Chicken" and it was de-lish!! you should all try it!
February 3, 2008
Things to do near Lake Merritt Hotel
Lake Merritt in Oakland is the largest fresh and salt water lake located in the heart of an urban area. Numerous parks, walking paths, a golf course, and cultural attractions surround the 3.4 mile lake. Visitors can also kayak on Lake Merritt.
Lakeshore Avenue & Grand Avenue
The Grand-Lakeshore district is the crossroads of Oakland. Seemingly everyone in town spends time here, whether they walk in from the surrounding neighborhoods, ride in on one of the major bus lines that pass through or drive in for a couple of hours of shopping and noshing. The well-known diversity of the city can be seen here from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. most days of the week. The district is also just a short walk from Lake Merritt, Oakland's crown jewel, making it a great place to stop before or after a leisurely stroll along water. The Lakeshore Avenue shopping and dining strip is a shorter stretch than Grand, but the street is narrower and more businesses are packed in, so it's constantly alive with diners, shoppers and people watchers. The tree-lined street is a great place to stroll, eat, window shop, and catch up with friends.
Marco and I love Arizmendi they have fresh-baked goods, like bread and pizza, straight out of the oven and into your hands (ouch!) and good coffee too!
3265 Lakeshore Ave., (510) 268-8849
Michael Mischer Chocolates: Michael Mischer doesn't make candy -- he makes delicious variations of truffles and bon-bons. Yes, there are the mocha and caramel crowd pleasers, but those are mere opening acts to main events such as champagne, pear, tequila and green tea.
3352 Grand Ave., (510) 986-1822.
Downtown Oakland
Oakland Museum of California. The three–tiered Oakland Museum of California opened in 1969 with the mission of providing unique collections, exhibitions and academic programs to provide a deeper understanding of California’s history, its people, environment, and future. The museum’s permanent gallery collections include the Gallery of California Art that houses original art; California: A Place, A People, A Dream, which explores the social complexities of California; and Walk Across California, which explores California’s natural history. Visit http://www.oaklandmuseum.org/.
Chinatown
The hub of Chinatown is the Pacific Renaissance Plaza, a multi-story residential and commercial complex, which houses a large underground parking garage and features two levels of shops and restaurants. The plaza is also home to the Oakland Asian Cultural Center and the Asian branch of the Oakland Public Library.
Mignonne: Located in Oakland's Historic District, Mignonne is a French inspired boutique that carries home décor, personal care, and unique gift items for women and men. They also carry my pillows there. Have fun!
1000 Jefferson Street, 510.444.5288
www.mignonnedecor.com
G.B. Ratto & Co. International Grocers: They sell the wares found at most Italian delis (pasta, sauces, cold cuts, cheeses, olives, breads, sweets and excellent deli sandwiches), plus more exotic items from around the world such as North African harissa, Indian spice pastes and forbidden black rice from China. Pasta, grains, beans, spices and flour are all available in bulk, and their house label wine vinegars and olive oil are some of the best around. Tantalizing and mysterious kitchen gadgets abound.
821 Washington St., (510) 832-6503.
Caffe 817: Their fine breakfasts and lunches feature treats such as Italian eggwiches, polenta, sandwiches, salads, pizza and daily specials. The ingredients are mainly organic and locally produced, and the coffee is excellent.
817 Washington, (510) 271-7965.
Lakeshore Avenue & Grand Avenue
The Grand-Lakeshore district is the crossroads of Oakland. Seemingly everyone in town spends time here, whether they walk in from the surrounding neighborhoods, ride in on one of the major bus lines that pass through or drive in for a couple of hours of shopping and noshing. The well-known diversity of the city can be seen here from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. most days of the week. The district is also just a short walk from Lake Merritt, Oakland's crown jewel, making it a great place to stop before or after a leisurely stroll along water. The Lakeshore Avenue shopping and dining strip is a shorter stretch than Grand, but the street is narrower and more businesses are packed in, so it's constantly alive with diners, shoppers and people watchers. The tree-lined street is a great place to stroll, eat, window shop, and catch up with friends.
Marco and I love Arizmendi they have fresh-baked goods, like bread and pizza, straight out of the oven and into your hands (ouch!) and good coffee too!
3265 Lakeshore Ave., (510) 268-8849
Michael Mischer Chocolates: Michael Mischer doesn't make candy -- he makes delicious variations of truffles and bon-bons. Yes, there are the mocha and caramel crowd pleasers, but those are mere opening acts to main events such as champagne, pear, tequila and green tea.
3352 Grand Ave., (510) 986-1822.
Downtown Oakland
Oakland Museum of California. The three–tiered Oakland Museum of California opened in 1969 with the mission of providing unique collections, exhibitions and academic programs to provide a deeper understanding of California’s history, its people, environment, and future. The museum’s permanent gallery collections include the Gallery of California Art that houses original art; California: A Place, A People, A Dream, which explores the social complexities of California; and Walk Across California, which explores California’s natural history. Visit http://www.oaklandmuseum.org/.
Chinatown
The hub of Chinatown is the Pacific Renaissance Plaza, a multi-story residential and commercial complex, which houses a large underground parking garage and features two levels of shops and restaurants. The plaza is also home to the Oakland Asian Cultural Center and the Asian branch of the Oakland Public Library.
Mignonne: Located in Oakland's Historic District, Mignonne is a French inspired boutique that carries home décor, personal care, and unique gift items for women and men. They also carry my pillows there. Have fun!
1000 Jefferson Street, 510.444.5288
www.mignonnedecor.com
G.B. Ratto & Co. International Grocers: They sell the wares found at most Italian delis (pasta, sauces, cold cuts, cheeses, olives, breads, sweets and excellent deli sandwiches), plus more exotic items from around the world such as North African harissa, Indian spice pastes and forbidden black rice from China. Pasta, grains, beans, spices and flour are all available in bulk, and their house label wine vinegars and olive oil are some of the best around. Tantalizing and mysterious kitchen gadgets abound.
821 Washington St., (510) 832-6503.
Caffe 817: Their fine breakfasts and lunches feature treats such as Italian eggwiches, polenta, sandwiches, salads, pizza and daily specials. The ingredients are mainly organic and locally produced, and the coffee is excellent.
817 Washington, (510) 271-7965.
Things to do near Newman Hall Parish
Telegraph Avenue (2 blocks down from church)
Almost as if we haven't lost a moment of time... Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley is still so reminiscent of the 60's that you will feel as if you have traveled back in time when you visit Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley. The shops and eateries are a mix of quintessential hippie-dom mixed with the current U.C. Berkeley modern day student. Both seem to blend together in a medley that makes shopping and eating here almost a cultural or historical trek as well as a great shopping one.
Some of our favorites are Bear Basics they got great T-shirts in the basement and go to Amoeba Music for some Bosa Nova. If you feel the urge to get some boba drinks then go to International Alley.
Caffe Strada-We love this college coffee shop. It's a great place to people watch and it's located at the end of College Ave. towards the campus. It also has a pleasant outdoor seating area right on the corner. Try the Bianca (white chocolate) Mocha.
2300 College Avenue (Bancroft Way & College Avenues), (510) 843-5282.
College Avenue (on your way out to 580)
Elmwood Shopping District is located on College Avenue in Berkeley just a few blocks South of the university. Here at the corner of College and Ashby you will find a special shopping experience featuring fine gourmet food, outdoor cafes, and shops that feature unique clothing, jewelry, gift items and quality personal services from local merchants.
Some of our (Tammy's) favorites are Nabolom bakery and Far Leaves. Then there's Dish and Jeremy's for that last minute couture change.
Then further down the street pass Claremont going south is Rockridge, a wonderful shopping district stretching along almost 14 blocks of College Avenue. You will find 5 great bakeries, gourmet food shops, 5 art and photo galleries, a number of shops catering to children and one for just sleepwear. Along with so many unique shops and services, Rockridge can boast of 40+ eateries and a number of great coffee places.
Some of our favorites are Royal Coffee they make each individual press & drip coffee cups!, then walk 2 doors down to La Farine Bakery (pass the flower shop and wine shop)-for some yummy pastry, and we love Zachary's Pizza anytime!
Almost as if we haven't lost a moment of time... Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley is still so reminiscent of the 60's that you will feel as if you have traveled back in time when you visit Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley. The shops and eateries are a mix of quintessential hippie-dom mixed with the current U.C. Berkeley modern day student. Both seem to blend together in a medley that makes shopping and eating here almost a cultural or historical trek as well as a great shopping one.
Some of our favorites are Bear Basics they got great T-shirts in the basement and go to Amoeba Music for some Bosa Nova. If you feel the urge to get some boba drinks then go to International Alley.
Caffe Strada-We love this college coffee shop. It's a great place to people watch and it's located at the end of College Ave. towards the campus. It also has a pleasant outdoor seating area right on the corner. Try the Bianca (white chocolate) Mocha.
2300 College Avenue (Bancroft Way & College Avenues), (510) 843-5282.
College Avenue (on your way out to 580)
Elmwood Shopping District is located on College Avenue in Berkeley just a few blocks South of the university. Here at the corner of College and Ashby you will find a special shopping experience featuring fine gourmet food, outdoor cafes, and shops that feature unique clothing, jewelry, gift items and quality personal services from local merchants.
Some of our (Tammy's) favorites are Nabolom bakery and Far Leaves. Then there's Dish and Jeremy's for that last minute couture change.
Then further down the street pass Claremont going south is Rockridge, a wonderful shopping district stretching along almost 14 blocks of College Avenue. You will find 5 great bakeries, gourmet food shops, 5 art and photo galleries, a number of shops catering to children and one for just sleepwear. Along with so many unique shops and services, Rockridge can boast of 40+ eateries and a number of great coffee places.
Some of our favorites are Royal Coffee they make each individual press & drip coffee cups!, then walk 2 doors down to La Farine Bakery (pass the flower shop and wine shop)-for some yummy pastry, and we love Zachary's Pizza anytime!
February 2, 2008
Wedding Cake- check!
I read this on their website and thought I needed to taste her cakes!Everything is made here in small batches; this means we run out of some items on some days. We experiment with desserts until we find out what our customers want. Some of our ingredients are organic and local. We buy much of our fruit from farmers who sell at the Berkeley Farmer's Market. Our dairy is Clover. Our chocolate is German, Belgian, and Californian.
There is a great deal of effort and love put into everything we make. What else is the point of a neighborhood bakeshop? Many of our customers are also our friends.
It has been a wonderful day in the neighborhood.
After many searching and tasting many flavors of cakes--YES- I finally found one!! a baker that I like and the cake was sooo yummy! :-) You'll just have to wait and taste it for yourself. I'm also working on a dessert table - trying to get desserts from both of our cultures... it has been a challenge finding resources, but i think we're making good progress... how about some Mango Puffs dipped in chocolate?! who wouldn't like puffs!!
Lodging in San Francisco
Hotel Diva
440 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
1800-553-1900
Located in Union Square, near restaurants, public transportation, nightlife, and shopping.
Hotel Stratford
242 Powell Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Ph: 415.397.7080
24 Hr Reservation Line: 1.877.922.5928
info@hotelstratford.com
Located in Union Square, near restaurants, public transportation, nightlife, and shopping.
The Andrews Hotel
624 Post Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
415-563-6877
Located in Union Square, near restaurants, public transportation, nightlife, and shopping.
440 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
1800-553-1900
Located in Union Square, near restaurants, public transportation, nightlife, and shopping.
Hotel Stratford
242 Powell Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Ph: 415.397.7080
24 Hr Reservation Line: 1.877.922.5928
info@hotelstratford.com
Located in Union Square, near restaurants, public transportation, nightlife, and shopping.
The Andrews Hotel
624 Post Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
415-563-6877
Located in Union Square, near restaurants, public transportation, nightlife, and shopping.
February 1, 2008
Lodging in East Bay
Marina Village Inn
1151 Pacific Marina
Alameda, CA 94501
(800) 345-0304
email: mailto:info@marinavillageinn.com?Subject=Marina%20Village%20Inn%20Website%20Inquiry
We really like this place, be sure when you book this place ask for the Water Front Room it faces the marina. It's not too far from the reception just through the tunnel to Alameda and it's at a really quiet location. Some of our family members are staying at this place. Be sure to mention "Tammy and Marco's wedding" to get a dsicount rate of $89.00 per night.
The Washington Inn
495 10th Street
Oakland, California 94607
510.452.1776
email: http://www.blogger.com/Raj@thewashingtoninn.com
Downtown Oakland and the inn is next door to lots of little restaurants, coffee shops, and Chinatown. Taxi distance from the reception. Be sure to mention "Tammy and Marco's wedding" to get a dsicount rate of $109.00 per night.
Your can also look into Marriott and Courtyard Hotels.
Hotel Durant
2600 Durant Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
510.845.8981
2 blocks away from the ceremony.
Claremont Resort & Spa
41 Tunnel Road
Berkeley, CA 94705
510-843-3000 - Resort Main Number
800-551-7266 ext.# 1 - Reservations
Very close to the ceremony.
1151 Pacific Marina
Alameda, CA 94501
(800) 345-0304
email: mailto:info@marinavillageinn.com?Subject=Marina%20Village%20Inn%20Website%20Inquiry
We really like this place, be sure when you book this place ask for the Water Front Room it faces the marina. It's not too far from the reception just through the tunnel to Alameda and it's at a really quiet location. Some of our family members are staying at this place. Be sure to mention "Tammy and Marco's wedding" to get a dsicount rate of $89.00 per night.
The Washington Inn
495 10th Street
Oakland, California 94607
510.452.1776
email: http://www.blogger.com/Raj@thewashingtoninn.com
Downtown Oakland and the inn is next door to lots of little restaurants, coffee shops, and Chinatown. Taxi distance from the reception. Be sure to mention "Tammy and Marco's wedding" to get a dsicount rate of $109.00 per night.
Your can also look into Marriott and Courtyard Hotels.
Hotel Durant
2600 Durant Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
510.845.8981
2 blocks away from the ceremony.
Claremont Resort & Spa
41 Tunnel Road
Berkeley, CA 94705
510-843-3000 - Resort Main Number
800-551-7266 ext.# 1 - Reservations
Very close to the ceremony.
January 9, 2008
About Us
Marco born in Angola, Africa in 1974, raised in Portugal, moved to the US in 1992.
Tammy born in Taipei, Taiwan in 1975, moved to the US in 1985.
We met through a co-worker over dinner. Neither of us thought much of it initially, but after only a few months of friendly lunches and many miles on Marco's motorcycle we could not stop spending time with each other. We were in love!
Our Bridal Entourage
Peter- groom's former NY work buddy ( aka.best man )
Stephanie-bride's cousin ( aka. maid of honor )
Clara-bride's childhood friend
David-bride's drinking buddy
Russell-bride + groom's outing buddy
Zubin-groom's drinking buddy
Mia-Bride's cousin's 4 year old daughter ( aka. flower girl )
January 5, 2008
Bridal Brunch
We had our bridal party over for brunch and also toured the wedding sites. Thank you all for coming on this windy-raining weather...
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