Marriage & Family Archives

4 wedding catering companies with packages from $14.90/pax for budget-conscious couples

Soon-to-be-wed couples on a tight budget will find this post really helpful (we hope!).

We’ve searched high and low and curated this list of wedding catering companies that offer catering packages priced from just $14.90/pax.

Nothing above $22/pax in this list, so have a look!

Elsie’s Kitchen | Classic Wedding Reception

Price: $14.90/pax

Elsie’s Kitchen’s Classic Wedding Reception offers a buffet spread of Asian treats to start us off.

Kick off your celebration feast with mains like Nonya fried mee siam or mamak mee goreng.

Then, savor the smoky-sweet chicken yakitori or honey soy-baked drumlets.

Whether you crave satay pizza, dim sums, or gyoza dumplings, the finger foods deliver bite after bite of bliss.

And for dessert?

Indulge in chocolate muffins, kueh lapis, or buttery egg tarts—a sweet finale your guests won’t forget.

With beverage options like fruit punch, coffee, and tea, this cost-effective package checks every budget box.

Elsie’s Kitchen handles all the details, from setup to service staff, so you can focus on celebrating.

For a minimum of 150 guests, it’s an all-inclusive $14.90 ($16.24 w/GST).

Four Seasons | ‘Heart to Heart’ Wedding Tea Buffet

Price: $15.80/pax

Or treat your wedding guests to a tea buffet experience with Four Seasons’ ‘Heart to Heart’ package.

Satisfy your guests with a bounty of flavors, from roasted potato salad to wok-fried carrot cake with sweet & savory sauce.

You can also cater to vegan guests with tasty spinach and mushroom quiche or the traditional Nonya kueh lapis cake.

Then, complement the fare with refreshing tropical fruit punch or classic coffee and tea.

Price includes service staff, decor setup, and a tasting session.

How’s Catering | ‘Eternal’ Wedding Package

Price: $18.80/pax

Planning a wedding should be a joyous occasion, not a financial headache and that’s why we are featuring How’s Catering’s ‘Eternal’ package—a spread starting at just $18.80 per guest.

From staples like rendang chicken to multi-cultural favorites like prawn fritters, there’s something for every palate.

And it’s all-inclusive: salads, starters, mains, crisp sides, and an assortment of French pastries.

You will even score thematic decor, eco-friendly dishware, staff, and a complimentary tasting for six.

Bellygood | ‘Joyous Wedding’ Wedding Tea Break

Price: $22/pax

Last but not least, Bellygood’s Joyous Wedding Tea Break has you covered with a spread for a minimum of 80 people.

Start with assorted finger sandwiches filled with chicken ham and tuna mayo before diving into savory bites like roasted garlic chicken drumlet tikka, crispy tempura prawns with chipotle mayo, and flaky BBQ chicken puff pastries.

Steamed chicken siew mai and pan-fried carrot cake add classic Singaporean flair.

Then, refuel with mains like chicken ham fried rice and wok-fried mee sua loaded with seafood.

Round it up with mini chocolate eclairs and caramel green tea cakes for dessert.

Quench thirsts with iced jasmine green tea, lemon tea, coffee, and tea + customizable DIY stations priced per serving available as add-ons too.

Best Mother’s Day Gifts Under S$52

Looking to spoil Mom without blowing your budget? Whether she needs a little pampering, a new bag for her daily adventures, or something sparkly just because, here are the best gifts under S$52 to make her feel truly appreciated.

FOR THE MOM THAT DESERVES ME-TIME

Turn her daily tea ritual into a magical escape with this elegant mug, detailed with 24k gold accents. The whimsical design features fluttering dragonflies and blooming florals, full of vintage charm. Available in lilac or turquoise, it’s the perfect companion for her favorite brew. T2 also offers beautifully packaged teas in collectible tins for just S$36.

Price: S$45
Where to buy: T2 Tea

Image Credits: t2tea.com

FOR THE HARDWORKING MOM THAT DESERVES A BREAK

Whenever I walk into Aesop, my nose goes on a fragrance trip. Aesop’s ultra-nourishing hand balm is enriched with botanical butters and essential oils like cedar, clove, and patchouli. It provides intense hydration without greasiness, making it perfect for bedside use or tossing into a daily bag.

Price: S$45
Where to buy: Aesop branches or Lazada

FOR THE MOM WHO LOVES A GOOD TIME

Treat Mama to a bottle of Yellow Tail Rosé. Fruity and beautifully pink, it’s the perfect pour for brunches, catch-ups, or winding down after a long day. With its light and refreshing notes, it’s a fun and affordable way to say cheers with her girlfriends or simply celebrate herself.

Price: Now S$23.92 (U.P. S$29.90)
Where to buy: FairPrice

FOR THE MOM WITH THE SWEET TOOTH

Cat & the Fiddle’s limited-edition Mother’s Day cheesecake features a blend of berries and yogurt cheese mousse, layered on vanilla sponge and a graham cracker crust. It’s a heartfelt tribute to moms, grandmas, and all the nurturing figures we love.

Image Credits: catandthefiddle.com

Price: From S$35.90
Where to buy: Cat & the Fiddle

FOR THE MOM WHO LOVES TO SPARKLE

A Kind of OOOF offers mix-and-match jewelry pieces that can be personalized to suit Mom’s style. Their under-S$50 range includes handcrafted 925 silver and some gold-plated pieces. Use the code LOVE12 for 12% off until May 12.

Price: Gifts below S$50
Where to buy: A Kind of OOOF

FOR THE JETSETTER MOM

If Mom is constantly traveling, she’ll love Ouai’s travel-sized minis. These downsized versions of their bestselling products are perfect for staying fresh and glowing while on the go. Personally, I swear by their Hair Oil! Prices start from just S$14, while regular-sized products are available from S$23 and up.

Price: From S$14
Where to buy: Sephora

FOR THE STYLISH MOM WHO NEEDS AN ON-THE-GO BAG

Korean brand Diff is known for its lightweight, durable, and fashionable bags that handle everyday chaos with ease. Luckily for me, I got my Diff bag during Chinese New Year when they had a sale. It usually retails for nearly S$70, but I snagged it for about S$60. I just dump everything in without worrying it’ll break.

Give your mom a similar experience with the Hug Bag. It has a glossy finish, gold buckle details, and an adjustable strap that works as a shoulder or crossbody bag. Tip: Watch out for seasonal promos like Easter, Chinese New Year, and possibly Mother’s Day for the best deals.

Price: Small size starts at S$50
Where to buy: ION Orchard, Basement 3 Atrium or @diff__singapore

Sources: 1 & 2

Loving on a Budget: 5 Ways to Save Money on Dates

Love shouldn’t be costly! You can keep the romance alive without draining your funds with a little creativity and intention.

Whether you’re in a new relationship or deep into forever, here are some fun and thoughtful ways to date smarter and spend less.

#1: DRESS TO IMPRESS

You don’t need a new outfit every time you go out. Co-ords are having a moment and for good reason. They’re cute, comfortable, and make styling effortless. A matching set gives you candlelit dinner energy without the hassle of putting a look together. No co-ords? No problem. Shop your closet, borrow from a friend, or upcycle what you already own.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Paint a denim jacket, crop an old tee, or swap out buttons on a cardigan for something more current. It’s cheap, fun, and totally personal.

#2: PLAN MEANINGFUL DAATES

Think quality over cost. Cook dinner together, explore a new hiking trail, or check out local free events and pop-ups. As long as you’re doing something you both enjoy, the connection will shine through.

#3: CREATE A SHARED BUDGET

Having a money plan is not unromantic. It’s smart. Set a weekly or monthly amount you can comfortably spend on outings. Swap lists of restaurants, movies, or events you’d love to try and take turns picking. This keeps things fun and financially stress-free.

#4: OPT FOR THOUGHTFUL GESTURES

A handwritten note, a playlist of your favorite songs, or a homemade dessert can mean more than anything store-bought. Celebrate milestones with intention, not just money.

#5: GET CREATIVE & COZY

Once you’re feeling comfortable together, bring the date night home. Cook a full meal, light a few candles, turn on your favorite playlist, and end the night with a movie marathon. With a little effort, home can feel even more special than a night out.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Building a beautiful relationship does not mean spending a lot. It means showing up, being thoughtful, and finding joy in the little things you do together.

Sources: 1 & 2

7 Tips to Stretch Your Dollar While Raising Kids & Fur-Kids Under One Roof

My late-night scroll led me to a video of a mom getting her two-year-old to train alongside her dogs. One of the pups has a history of biting, so she was teaching her daughter to be gentle while helping the dogs adjust to her presence. Parenting and pet parenting don’t come cheap, especially in Singapore.

Consider these no-fluff ways to stay financially sane while keeping your baby and pets happy.

#1: DITCH THE FANCY PET FOOD

You don’t need to splurge to give your pets healthy meals. Many premium pet food brands like Wellness Core and Taste of the Wild come in affordable “family pack” formats or generic equivalents with similar ingredients. Remember, look for real meat as the first ingredient and avoid meat by-products or corn.

#2: AVOID SPENDING ON PET FASHION

Yes, they look adorable in tiny tutus. But instead of splashing out on pet couture, invest in essentials like a durable collar, ID tag and comfortable leash. Your pet doesn’t care about trends, but your wallet will definitely feel it.

#3: GET INSURANCE FOR YOUR BABIES

Vet visits in Singapore can cost hundreds or even thousands. For instance, a single emergency surgery could set you back S$3,000 or more. So, consider pet insurance providers such as Happy Tails by AIA and Liberty Insurance. These insurance providers offer plans from S$24 per month with coverage up to S$10,000 per year.

The same goes for your baby. MediShield Life automatically covers Singaporean newborns. You can opt for a life insurance plan to protect your family if anything unexpected happens to you.

#4: DIY GROOMING AT HOME

Professional grooming can cost between S$50 and S$100 per session. With the right tools like a good brush, nail clippers and pet shampoo, grooming your pet at home becomes simple and affordable.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Tip: Flea-fighting shampoos with ingredients like tea tree oil, oatmeal or coconut extract provide a natural and effective boost.

#5: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GOVERNMENT BABY GRANTS

Take full advantage of Singapore’s Baby Bonus Scheme including cash gift, Child Development Account (CDA), and dollar-for-dollar matching up to S$15,000 (depending on the child’s birth order). Moreover, CDA funds can be used for preschool fees, medical expenses, and purchases from approved merchants like Watsons or Guardian.

#6: REVAMP YOUR HOUSEHOLD BUDGET

Children and pets bring along a range of new and ongoing expenses such as formula, nappies, vaccinations, checkups, grooming, and gear. It’s important to revisit your household budget regularly to reassess priorities, distinguish between essentials and non-essentials, and set clear financial goals. From baby enrichment classes and pet training to long-term tertiary education planning, there’s plenty to factor into your overall financial strategy.

#7: BUILD A MONEY BUFFER

Unexpected costs are bound to pop up. Whether it’s an emergency trip to the vet, a sudden medical bill, or replacing the stroller your toddler just destroyed mid-outing, having a safety net of three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved up can make a world of difference in keeping your finances stable and stress levels low.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Raising toddlers and pets in Singapore doesn’t have to come with financial stress. With smart planning and a few practical changes, you can give your kids and fur-kids the best things in life.

Sources: 1 ,2,3, & 4

SG60 Baby Gift Celebrates the Next Generation

As Singapore marks its 60th year of independence, the nation is celebrating not just its rich history, but also its bright future starting with the littlest Singaporeans!

In honor of this milestone, all Singaporean babies born in 2025 will receive the exclusive SG60 Baby Gift, a delightful package of curated items designed to support parents and commemorate this special occasion.

WHERE TO SIGN UP?

Every baby born between January 1 and December 31, 2025, will be eligible for this special keepsake. Parents must complete their child’s birth registration before signing up for the SG60 Baby Gift at sg60.gov.sg/sg60-baby-gift.

This meaningful initiative reflects the Singapore Government’s commitment to supporting families, making parenthood a more joyous and memorable journey.

WHAT’S INSIDE THE GIFT BUNDLE?

Each package includes a mix of practical and sentimental items, sourced from local brands and designed to enrich the early years of both baby and parents:

A. Trolley Bag & Backpack – Stylish and functional, these bags help parents keep all baby essentials organized for outings and adventures.

B. SG60 Family Photobook – A beautifully designed album featuring Singapore-themed backgrounds and fun stickers of local flora and fauna to capture precious family moments.

C. Wooden Building Blocks & Toy Play Set – Classic toys that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and motor skill development.

D. Limited Edition Becky Bunny Plushie – This adorable soft toy, inspired by the Families for Life mascot, embodies values like love, respect, and commitment while promoting sensory development.

E. Straw Cup with Adaptor Cap – A high-quality feeding essential from local brand Hegen, designed to support your little one’s transition to independent drinking.

F. SG60 Parenting Journal – A dedicated space for parents to document milestones, thoughts, and reflections on their parenting journey.

G. Becky Bunny Storybooks – Engaging tales featuring Becky Bunny, crafted to nurture a love for reading from an early age.

H. Food Bib – A must-have for messy mealtimes, making feeding time fuss-free and fun.

HOW TO RECEIVE IT?

Parents who register by March 15, 2025, can collect their gift at Celebrating Our Families events organized by the People’s Association, happening on weekends in April and May.

For those unable to attend or who register after March 15, home delivery will be available from mid-May onwards.

Image Credits: go.gov.sg/SG60BabyGift

Even Singaporean babies born overseas can receive the SG60 Baby Gift, though delivery is only available within Singapore. Additionally, babies born before January 1, but with an Estimated Date of Delivery (EDD) on or after January 1, 2025, will still be eligible upon submission of medical documentation.

A TRIBUTE TO NEW BEGINNINGS

The SG60 Baby Gift is more than just a collection of items. It’s a celebration of life, family, and the journey of parenthood. As Singapore turns 60, this meaningful initiative underscores the nation’s dedication to building a strong, supportive community for generations to come.

To register and learn more, visit go.gov.sg/SG60BabyGift today!

Sources: 1 & 2

Search the site