The traditions of bridal showers and baby showers are two endearing rituals that have grown in popularity.
Meticulously planned and graciously given by close lady friends and dear relatives of a soon-to-be bride, the bridal shower has various themes targeting certain areas of the new home such as the kitchen, the bathroom, the garden and the like.
One recent breezy afternoon in uptown Bauhinia Drive in Banilad, Nicole Liok, the beautiful fiancée of enterprising Charles Ong, was feted with a scents and picture frames shower hosted by her aunts Len Jarque and the author.
Among the well-wishers were mother of the bride Sylvia Liok, future sister-in-law Tracy Ong, aunts Danet Dabon, Mali Garcia, who came with her energetic 89-year-old mom Isabel Garcia, Marilen Jarque and cousins Isabel Velasco, Gigi Alvarez, Miren Jarque, Erika Ong and Cristina Sasnouvski.
In between passed around trays of tea sandwiches and Filipino merienda delicacies, innovative parlor games were played which drew laughter and cheers.
Soon after everyone partook of the delicious vanilla cupcakes topped with white creamy icing, which were lovingly baked by cousin Monique Jarque.
The highlight of the get together was the unwrapping of gifts baring many scintillating scents and unique picture frames in every imaginable size and color.
Before returning, everyone likewise received their very own picture frames as a token and reminder of a cherished afternoon.
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Meanwhile halfway around town, Helen Misa together with family and friends hosted a bridal shower for daughter Cristine Coscolluela at the prestigious Country Club.
As in most baby showers, guests sprinkled the soon to-be-mom with little necessities the new baby will need.
A few days later Cristine gave birth to a healthy baby boy who goes by the name of Santiago.