Financial Challenges of Wedding Preparation and How to Overcome Them

Weddings are notoriously known for being expensive and stressful.

Be prepared to plan for a year for an event that will happen instantly in a day. The possible options are overwhelming! Not to mention, countless wedding vendors are vying for your attention. You might want to brace yourself, because the average cost of a wedding in Singapore ranges between S$22,200 and S$52,800.

During the process of wedding planning, engaged couples often make financial mistakes that affect their future. Here’s how you can avoid these common financial challenges.

#1: NOT SETTING BOUNDARIES FROM THE GET-GO

Failure to discuss your financial boundaries can affect your other wedding decisions. The decision to unite as a family isn’t merely about spending the rest of your lives with your true love. It is also about the practical areas of building a future. You need to either rent a flat or buy a flat. Do you plan to have a baby in the next five years? Do you want to travel to Europe for your honeymoon?

It is important for couples to discuss the specifics and mutually agree on a financial plan. Know which funds are “ours”, “yours”, and “mine”. Decide which expenses should be paid for by the “ours” bucket (e.g., venue rental) and which part should come out from your “mine” bucket (e.g., wedding gift to your partner).

#2: BEING TRAPPED BY THE CONTRACTS

Let’s face it – weddings are a lucrative business! The contracts you have with the suppliers are binding. So, don’t simply sign on the dotted line without asking questions. Studying the contract will enable you to bargain strategically. For instance, you can remove unnecessary inclusions such as upgraded linens for VIP guests.

Some contracts leave you financially responsible for empty rooms and chairs that you reserved for the event. This added expense can create a hole in your pocket. Be sure to read the contracts thoroughly.

#3: INVITING PEOPLE OUT OF OBLIGATION

It’s easy to get into the mindset of having to invite everyone from your secondary school friends to your second cousin whom you have not seen in a decade, but having a huge guest list may turn out to be a big financial mistake. As uncomfortable a conversation may be, you must decide together to only extend an invite to those people who you really want to be at your wedding.

Set clear rules about your guest list such as “no kids” or “no plus ones”. With fewer people, you will be able to maximize your wedding budget and assign your funds to more key areas including catering and venue rental. Best of all? You will only be celebrating this special occasion with the ones closest to you.

#4: FAILURE TO FACTOR IN THE UNEXPECTED EXPENSES

You have booked and paid for the flowers, venue, photographer, and catering. Everything on your list is accomplished and small details have been polished. However, unexpected expenses can come on the day itself. While paying for an extra person might not break the bank, before you know it, you receive a bill that you did not foresee. Thus, it is important to create some wiggle room and be ready for unexpected expenses.

#5: SPENDING MORE THAN WHAT YOU HAVE

Common wedding expenses that you must prepare for include

a. ROM and solemnisation fees,
b. Venue rental and banquet,
c. Photographer and videographer, as well as
d. Wedding party entertainment.

Many engaged couples splurge on their wedding because of this mindset – you only get married once. Coming from someone who has recently had her civil marriage ceremony, I am now planning to have our Church wedding ceremony. Sometimes, you do not get married once. Moreover, going into debt to wed is never the right foot to start your marriage on.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Having a realistic wedding budget can help you stay within your limits. Have a firm idea of how much money is available for your wedding. Then, create a wish list of the things that you would like to have. Prioritize your list while taking your current financial situation into consideration. There are no wrong or right priorities, just preferences to complete your special day!

Sources: 1 & 2

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I’ve Finally Found The Perfect Customised Hair Treatment For My Hair Loss

You only live once, do whatever you want.

I heeded the above advice for my hair when I was young(er) so you can imagine all the crazy things I’ve done to my hair— colouring, perming, bleaching, and rebonding. You name it, I’ve probably done it.

It’s only when I started noticing significant hair loss that I stopped those hair “adventures”. And what I’m referring to is spotting a wider hairline and overall thinning over the years. The worst part was seeing an increasing bunch of hair strands on the floor when I cleaned my room at the end of the day. Certainly not a good feeling.

And that’s why when Topp Care Hair Solutions offered me to try out their customised hair treatment, I jumped on the opportunity with a million thanks.

Topp Care is located within Eastpoint Mall and it’s right beside Simei MRT station. I took the escalator up to the 3rd floor, walked a little, and spotted the outlet almost immediately.

About Topp Care Hair Solutions

Topp Care holds a US Trichology Institute certification and is a member of the British Herbal Medicine Association. Each step of every treatment uses products created from premium Western Botanicals (plant-derived) that can encourage hair growth and improve scalp health.

They offer solutions that cater to all ages, so whether it’s premature hair thinning or age-related greying concerns, Topp Care can help. All of their treatments are delivered by US Trichology Institute Certified Specialists as well as well-trained and experienced therapists, and they contain hair-friendly herbs including thyme, burdock, and aloe vera.

The Moment Of Revelation

The truth hurts, but to know the condition of my scalp, I had to brace myself for the 1-to-1 consultation. After I was asked to fill up a short questionnaire, my hair & scalp specialist, Helen, greeted me with a smile.

She explained that she would be using a scanning machine that can zoom in up to 200x to take a closer look at my scalp. I was nervous but also curious to see the condition of my scalp. As much as my hair looks okay on the outside, it isn’t that pretty on the inside.

While looking at the scans generated, Helen asked if I had sensitive skin. And yes, she was spot on. She then explained that the reddish spots noted on my scans are a clear indication, since our scalps are part of our skin as well. I had a scalp scan done years ago but don’t recall having these red-looking bumps so I immediately knew things had gotten quite bad.

Helen also explained that there was an excessive sebum build-up on my scalp, clogging up my hair follicles. The white-yellowish stuff surrounding it isn’t dandruff (to my surprise), but a combination of oil and the residues left from my hair dye.

And mind you, I’ve already cut down on hair colouring from once a month to once every 2 to 3 months due to the fear of aggravating my hair loss condition. Who would have thought that the residues left are causing problems too?

I was also enlightened that a healthy hair follicle should have 2 to 3 strands of hair growing out of it, but a close look at the scans revealed that many of my follicles only had a pathetic strand. And that’s why when that precious strand falls and no new ones grow from it, there goes my follicle — it goes into a resting phase and might never grow back. It’s upsetting but I guess that explains the increasing little bald spots on my head.

Do I feel bad? Yes, you bet. But thankfully, all is not too late.

Helen recommended that I do a Dead Sea Masque which can:

  • Control and optimise sebum production
  • Eliminate excess oil and dead skin from pores and follicles
  • Detoxify by soaking up impurities via thorough scalp cleansing

Just perfect for my oily scalp concern. Note: Depending on your scalp condition, a different treatment could be recommended.

My Actual Treatment Process

My customised treatment started with a deep scalp cleanse followed by a generous amount of Dead Sea Masque application to my roots. I was left to rest for 20 minutes and let the masque work its magic in softening the accumulated sebum and effectively removing oil clogs, so that my follicles can “breathe” again.

Before I knew it, time was up and I was ushered to the hair-washing area for a revitalising rinse.

The therapist who attended to me told me to always use my fingertips and never my nails when washing my hair, which I think is a good tip for all of us to note.

I loved how thorough she was, making sure to leave no masque residue during the process. I was also treated to a little massage during shampooing before a conditioner was applied to the ends of my hair to conclude the wash.

Back at my station, the staff applied a moisturising hair spray before blow-drying my hair and applying a hair ampoule directly to my roots.

This regenerating ampoule is able to:

  • Stimulate hair growth
  • Boost immunity of the scalp
  • Strengthen hair follicles to enhance anchoring of hair

And here comes my favourite part of the hair treatment—a soothing massage. The massage was not just for my scalp but for my neck and shoulders too. It felt really good and I secretly wished the massage would last forever.

But nope, onward to the next!

I was treated to a Hair Growth Laser that emits non-invasive lasers to awaken my hair follicles and speed up regeneration, which definitely helps with stimulating hair growth and reversing thinning. It was slightly warm, which I enjoyed. After 20 minutes, Helen came back to check on me before removing the laser and leading me back into the consultation room.

Post-Treatment Consultation

My head felt lighter and though I was wearing a surgical mask, I could smell the pleasant scent of all the products used on my tresses. Compared to the revelations during pre-treatment an hour ago, I was also a lot more confident to see the condition of my scalp post-treatment.

My scalp scan machine was back at work and voila! Take a look at my before and after shots:

If one session could get me results like that, how much improvement in my hair loss would I see in a few more sessions? Topp Care’s customised treatment works! Hands down.

I was also slightly amazed at how I woke up with a less greasy scalp the next morning and a lasting herbal fragrance from my treatment. Somehow or rather, my hair looks thicker and fuller too!

A Special Offer For You

You may have a different hair or scalp concern but there’s nothing Topp Care Hair Solutions can’t solve. If you want to see results for yourself, I suggest you book a customised hair treatment appointment with Topp Care at just $40 today.

You will get to enjoy a 75- to 90-minute reinvigorating session with Topp Care’s in-house specialists.

Click here to book your customised hair treatment @ $40 (U.P $309) now!

Topp Care Hair Solutions

Address: 3 Simei Street 6, #03-24, Eastpoint Mall, Singapore 528833

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11 am – 9 pm; Weekend & PH: 10 am – 7 pm

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and promotions. You can also call them via 6645 3020 for booking or email [email protected] for more inquiries.

Enjoy your session!

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Times have changed but Giant’s ‘Lower Prices That Last’ is here to stay

We’re more than halfway into Q1 of 2023. Are you feeling the pinch from the 8% GST increase?

If yes, we’ve got exactly what you need to ease you into the GST hike—Giant’s ‘Lower Prices That Last’.

By maintaining hundreds of fresh and supermarket groceries at the same low prices each day, the ‘Lower Prices That Last’ initiative was established by Giant during the pandemic to aid Singaporeans in getting through the challenging phase.

But as we exit the pandemic, Giant continues to uphold their pledge by offering the same pocket-friendly pricing on hundreds of daily necessities given inflation and the recent GST increase. That means they still have your favorite items at a lower price:

  • Royal Gala Apples at 5 for $2
  • Any 3 for $2 Leafy Greens (Sio Peck Chye / Kang Kong / Chye Sim / Sharp Spinach / Red Spinach / Round Spinach)
  • Minced Pork at $0.90/100g
  • Mac Taste Kaya 410g at $2.50
  • Meadows Home 3ply Printed Bathroom Tissue 10R/20R at $5.95/$8.85

In fact, they’ve added additional ‘Lower Prices That Last’ items that many of us consider necessities.

New items added to ‘Lower Prices That Last’

Ecuador Vannamei Prawns

No recipe can’t satiate your prawn cravings, whether you prepare these Ecuador Vannamei Prawns seared, pan-fried, or simply boiled the healthier way. 1 kg of these goodies only costs you $10 and that’s about up to 50 pieces for you to use throughout your homecooked meals.

Perdigao / Seara Frozen Whole Chicken Griller 1kg

It’s not hard to prepare a full chicken. Leave the chicken whole or cut it up; grill it, bake it to perfection in the oven, or even better, fry it up extra crispy for a mid-day snack. You can also try a hand at cooking Korea’s samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) with Perdigao / Seara Frozen Whole Chicken Griller. This dish is customarily consumed by Koreans during the harshest summer days to maintain their energy levels and regulate their body temperatures with the environment. Refer to this samgyetang recipe and let’s get cooking.

Giant Jasmine Fragrant Rice

After a long day at work, nothing compares to a steaming bowl of rice with your favorite home-cooked dishes. Now you can, with ‘Lower Prices That Last’. We guarantee you and your wallet will feel content and fuller.

Top Power Detergent

Top’s color protection keeps colors vibrant and stops color fading. No matter the weather, clothes still smell great when dried indoors since the washing cycle gets rid of the bacteria that cause odors. In addition, the smart Japanese formulation effortlessly removes difficult stains. With its effective cleaning capabilities, no more extended soaking is necessary. And you know what’s best? You can get it at the same low price of $10.95 every day at Giant.

Super 3-in-1 Coffee

Purchase this special mix to significantly improve your days ahead. Super, a 3-in-1 coffee inventor, is skilled in combining the ideal components to provide a harmony of flavor, fragrance, and smoothness. With only $5.50 for a pack of 30/35 sticks, you can get to taste the best coffee beans, premium creamer, and sugar used by Super. Be rest assured of your morning cup.

Dettol Anti-Bacterial Body Wash Twin Pack

Dermatologically proven to offer 24-hour germ protection, Giant presents to you this Dettol Anti-Bacterial Shower Gel in a saver pack of 2. Your skin will feel healthy and fresh after using this carefully formulated pH-balanced product, especially amid Singapore’s unpredictable weather forecast. There is a fragrance for everyone because it comes in a variety to choose from.

Every little bit of money saved counts as we ease into the GST hike, and thanks to Giant’s ‘Lower Prices That Last’, we can enjoy more value for less on hundreds of our staple groceries. Look out for the “finger heart icon” to enjoy more essentials at the BEST VALUE both in-store and on the Cart app.

Happy shopping and more savings to all of us. Spread the good news!

 

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Say heya to 100GB, 300 local mins, 50 SMS mobile plan for only $10

Looking for a pocket-friendly mobile plan that has it all? Look no further than heya, a simple contract-free 4G Postpaid SIM only plan by Singtel. For only $10, here are the gargantuan benefits that subscribers can look forward to:

  • 100 GB
  • 50 local SMS
  • 300 local mins
  • FREE incoming calls
  • FREE caller ID
  • No fixed contract
  • Data rollover (up to 200GB per month)
  • Best network (supported by Singtel)

At 100GB for only $10, this represents amazing value for data-heavy mobile users. Furthermore, subscribers can put their mind at ease as no excess charges will be incurred after their plans have been fully utilised. If you ever change your mind after the purchase (we bet you won’t), rest assured that there is no contract to tie you down.

Not only that, you can even rollover your unused data to the next month when you top up! If you don’t know how data rollover works, here’s a short illustration from heya mobile’s Facebook page.

Images from heya mobile’s Facebook

Convenience at your fingertips

Once you have signed up for a heya mobile plan, manage your account on the go with the new heya mobile app. You can check your account balance or even top up your heya plan with your wallet credits. Wallet credits can be conveniently topped up at authorised retailers or you can do direct top-ups online at Shopee or Lazada platforms.

Simply download the heya mobile app on the Google Playstore and Apple App Store to enjoy convenience at your fingertips!

Check out the video below for a quick introduction about heya and the new app.

Sign up for heya now

With all these benefits at such an affordable price, heya is a mobile plan that meet all your needs, especially if you are a heavy data user. With heya, it proves that sometimes in life, you can have your cake and eat it too! Sign up for a heya plan at any heya authorised retailers.

 

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Don’t fall prey to mind-numbing addictions like social media fixation

people using smartphones

We’ve all done these: mindlessly scrolling through our phone, aimlessly swiping through the news, randomly clicking links.

We can lose hours of our day to this type of behavior and still feel unsatisfied. This type of behavior—known as doom-scrolling—has become increasingly common, especially in today’s era of constant news and updates.

But what many people don’t realize is that it’s slowly numbing our minds and keeping us from being productive or creative. It may seem harmless at first but it can quickly spiral out of control and create an addiction cycle that’s hard to break.

Recognizing warning signs of mind-numbing addictions

You may not realize it, but the signs of a mind-numbing addiction are there if you know where to look.

For instance, if you find yourself doom-scrolling away an entire evening, that’s not just a “bad habit,” but rather a behavior that’s craving reinforcement more and more.

It may start slow with occasional dips into the app, but then you find yourself checking them far more frequently than intended. It could also be games, streaming platforms, or emails—all of which can lead to a fixation with your digital devices and mindless consumption for hours on end.

If you recognize any of these patterns in your behavior, take action before your addiction has time to take root. Remember that time addictions create enduring changes in the brain and can be difficult to kick afterward.

The benefits of unplugging & staying present
man reading a book to a baby

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While doom-scrolling can be a habit you fall into without realizing it, taking steps to actively unplug from technology can have some seriously positive results.

Taking breaks from social media or any other type of technology can help reduce your stress levels, improve your sleep quality, and give your brain the much-needed reboot it needs.

Plus, heading offline can also help you focus on being more mindful and present in the moment. When we’re constantly bombarded by notifications, emails, messages, and ads from every screen we use, it becomes more difficult to be present and aware in our everyday lives.

By taking a break from social media or even just turning off notifications for a few hours each day, you will find that you’re better able to focus on the task at hand and take care of yourself in ways that are more meaningful than endless scrolling ever could be.

How to break the cycle & reclaim your time & life

Breaking free from mind-numbing addictions such as social media fixation is a process that doesn’t happen overnight. It requires you to take control of your habits, and your mindset and gradually take measures to break free from the cycle of compulsive behavior.

Here are three ways you can break the cycle:

  • Going on a cleanse

Take charge by temporarily taking a break from social media, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed and anxious.

Setting limits is key—committing to only 30 minutes a day can help structure how you spend your time online. Depending on how serious your addiction is, consider deleting certain apps from your phone altogether.

  • Turning off notifications

These pesky notifications happen more often than we think and they take away our self-control when we engage with our phones or apps, creating an involuntary habit.

Taking charge of when and how often we get these notifications gives us power over our own decisions and helps us stay intentional about our time spent on social media.

  • Installing extensions

If you’re having difficulty limiting yourself, try installing extensions that will help break free from the compulsion to doom and scroll into oblivion.

What to do when you feel the urge to check your devices
walking in sports shoes

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Here are some things you can do when you feel the urge to check your devices:

  • Take a walk around the block or go for a run—a change of scenery is always good for the soul.
  • Spend quality time with family and friends: Make plans with them instead of scrolling aimlessly through social media feeds.
  • Set boundaries: Schedule when you will be on and off your device and stick to them. Better yet, keep your device away for a set period.
  • Challenge yourself with something new or different: Learn how to play the piano, knit, or try a hand at gardening—the possibilities are endless! All these activities require focus and will help take your mind off checking devices unconsciously.

Too much of a good thing can become a bad thing—and that’s especially true when it comes to social media. Social media can be an incredible force for good, but it can also become an addiction if we’re not careful. Whether you’re using it to share your thoughts, express yourself, or just stay connected, it’s important to remember that we are all only human and that our time and energy are finite. Take control of your social media consumption and find a balance between your online and real-life experiences starting today.

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