7 Life-Saving Tips to Stay Within Budget This Christmas
How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue in Singapore
Finding the ideal wedding venue is a journey of discovery with a mixture of dreams, timing, and practical planning. Your chosen venue sets the stage for your big day, making it a pivotal piece of your wedding puzzle.
Whether it’s a glamorous ballroom or a hidden garden oasis, here’s how to navigate the process with ease and confidence.
#1: SECURE YOUR DATE FIRST
In Singapore, popular venues like The Clifford Pier or CHIJMES Chapel can be fully booked over a year in advance. If you’ve already circled a date on your calendar, don’t delay! Starting early ensures you maximize availability.
For couples with flexible dates, you can get better deals during off-peak months such as February, August, and October. My husband and I, for example, opted for a weekday celebration and saved significantly without compromising on charm.
#2: BUDGET WISELY
Before falling for the luxury of The Fullerton Bay Hotel or the charm of Fort Canning Park, set your budget. Decide how much to allocate for the venue, as it often takes the largest slice of the pie.
Many venues offer bundled packages covering catering, venue styling, and even planning services. Costs typically range from S$1,900 per table for weekday lunches to S$2,200 for weekend dinners. While these packages can save time and money, watch out for hidden fees like audio equipment rentals or corkage charges.
#3: MATCH YOUR VISION TO THE VENUE
Your venue should enhance your wedding theme. Planning a chic, modern affair? Consider venues like The Glasshouse at Andaz or Wheeler’s Estate, which boast sleek, Instagram-worthy aesthetics. Dreaming of a garden party? Gardens by the Bay or Botanic Gardens provide stunning backdrops for nature-inspired nuptials.
When the venue complements your vision, the day feels like an extension of your story.
#4: CHECK THE LOCATION’S ACCESSIBILITY
Singapore’s size works in your favor, but convenience is still key. Venues in central locations, such as Marina Bay Sands or Orchard Road hotels, make it easier for guests to arrive without hassle.
Also, consider nearby accommodations for out-of-town guests. For instance, you can arrange shuttle services to make travel seamless for your family and friends.
#5: CONSIDER YOUR GUEST COUNT
Before scouting venues, estimate your guest list. Spaces like Capella Singapore may comfortably host 300 guests, while smaller venues like Botanico are better suited for intimate celebrations.
For my wedding, the venue allowed up to 120 guests, and we had 110 attendees. While it worked, it felt a bit crowded, especially on the dance floor and during dinner service. From my experience, 90 guests would have been ideal for a more comfortable atmosphere.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Overcrowding can dampen the experience, while too much space might feel impersonal. Pro tip: Start with a core list of family and closest friends, then expand as needed.
#6: TALK TO A PLANNER
Wedding planners are invaluable guides. They know the ins and outs of various venues, from layout options to logistical challenges. As Alliey Kline-Weichelt, CEO of Alley & Co., puts it: “Planners know the capabilities of a space and what it takes to transform it.”
For our wedding, our planners suggested whimsical, hidden spaces. Their expertise can help you see beyond first impressions.
#7: KNOW THE VENUE’S RULES
Every venue has its restrictions, from noise limits to decor policies. Want a live jazz band or a furry ring bearer? Double-check the venue’s guidelines to avoid last-minute surprises.
For example, some venues in Singapore’s heritage districts have noise restrictions after 10 PM. Knowing these details upfront allows you to plan effectively and ensure a smooth day.
#8: VISIT THE VENUE IN PERSON
Online photos can’t capture everything. Take the time to visit your shortlisted venues. Notice the ambiance, lighting, and layout. Does the space align with your vision?
I remember touring a venue that looked stunning in photos but felt cramped in reality. On the flip side, we fell in love with an understated venue that came to life during our visit.
#9: TRUST YOUR GUT
At the end of the day, your wedding venue is more than just a location. It’s where cherished memories will unfold. If you walk into a space and feel the magic, go for it.
Planning our wedding, we visited venue after venue until we stepped into our dream spot. We knew immediately it was “the one.” Trust that feeling—it rarely leads you astray.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Happy venue hunting and may your day be as unforgettable as your love story!
6 protein-filled foodstuffs from $37+ to get as gifts for that gym buff in your life
We all have that one gym buff in our lives; one that goes after high-protein diets.
If you know of someone and are pondering what gifts to get for them this yearend, why not consider these foodstuffs we’re about to introduce to you?
Impact Vegan Protein
Price: $37.19
This best-selling plant-based protein from Myprotein packs a complete amino acid profile into a clean, low-calorie formula (only 110 calories per serving!).
A blend of pea and fava bean isolates provides 22g of muscle-building protein per serving to support an active vegan lifestyle.
This means more protein than many whey powders with way less sugar.
Your gym buff buddy can fuel their fitness without empty calories from artificial sweeteners.
Protein Pancake Mix
Promo Price: $38.80
Wake up to a better breakfast with this protein pancake mix with a blend of milk, whey, and egg proteins.
Packing 34g of muscle fuel protein per serving, this mix delivers the fast- and slow-digesting nutrients to keep your gym bud satisfied and energized all morning long.
It’s also low in sugar, calories, and fat so they can indulge without food guilt weighing them down.
Creating this protein-packed meal is as easy as adding milk or water and firing up the griddle.
No sweat to silence those h-angry cravings.
Impact Whey Protein Powder
Promo Price: from $47.99
Muscles crave fuel, and this whey protein powder delivers with 21g of protein from an all-natural, nutritionist-crafted blend.
With over 40 flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry cream, your gym rat friend will never get bored of this way to build lean muscle.
At only 114 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to bulk up or get lean.
Layered Protein Bar
Price: $113.51
Ditch those bland protein bars and treat your gym pal to this layered bar.
With six irresistible layers of taste and texture, these bars are wrapped in over 20g of muscle-supporting protein.
Myprotein’s layered creations come in 10 mouthwatering flavors including brand new Vanilla Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Pretzel, Cookie Crunch, and Triple Chocolate Fudge.
Each bite packs a punch of protein along with satisfying fiber and carbs to fuel their exercise hustle.
Crispy Protein Wafer
Promo Price: $135.45
Snack smarter with MyProtein’s Crispy Protein Wafers.
With 15g of protein per pack from a milk and whey isolate blend, these crave-able wafers ditch the excess sugar and fat for a treat that powers any active lifestyle.
With 60% less sugar and 20% less fat than supermarket options, these wafers let any gym goer enjoy snacking without regret.
From peanut butter to cookies & cream, their five drool-worthy flavors taste like a cheat snack but with a macro-friendly profile that fuels fitness goals.
Keep these high-protein wafers close for an energizing, guilt-free snack that satisfies!
Baked Protein Cookie
Price: $143.99
Has your gym pal been craving dessert but afraid of affecting their diet?
Meet the Baked Protein Cookie with 13g of plant-based protein (pea protein).
One bite of the rich, chocolaty flavor will fool any taste buds into thinking they’re enjoying a splurge.
Studded with dark chocolate chunks, each cookie lives up to its “Cleanest Dirty Treat” moniker from Men’s Health.
This protein-packed snack will satisfy a sweet tooth and bodies craving for fuel.
It’s a win-win.
8 Budgeting Tips for Your 2025 Wedding
Planning your dream wedding in 2025? With Pantone’s Mocha Mousse leading the way in earthy, romantic tones, it’s time to create a celebration that reflects your love story without blowing your budget.
Follow these 8 savvy ways to save money while planning a stunning wedding in Singapore.
#1: ESTABLISH A BUDGET
Before diving into Pinterest boards or venue tours, take the time to establish a clear wedding budget. This should include all potential sponsors: whether it’s just you and your partner or family members contributing financially. Setting a budget is crucial and helps you avoid booking any vendors prematurely. Moreover, a well-thought-out budget ensures that you and your future spouse won’t start your married life burdened by debt.
When my husband and I got married, we initially had a budget in mind, but it ended up doubling due to unforeseen expenses. For instance, we had to accommodate added guests, which increased costs for food, seating, and even invitations. Remember, it’s always better to have a buffer for unexpected expenses.
#2: CUT DOWN THE GUEST LIST
The guest count determines costs for everything from catering to table decor. Keeping it small and intimate is not only trendy but also budget-friendly.
Consider this: A dinner reception in Singapore typically costs S$100 to S$200 per person. Reducing your guest list from 100 to 50 can significantly lighten your financial load while making the event feel more personal.
#3: PRIORITIZE WHAT MATTERS
Your guests will remember the food, drinks, and overall experience, so channel your resources into these aspects. Opt for creative yet cost-efficient catering like live food stations or dessert tables instead of multi-course meals.
#4: SUPPORT LOCAL VENDORS
Working with local florists, caterers, and photographers saves on transportation fees and helps you avoid imported price hikes. Explore bridal fairs in Singapore, ask friends for recommendations, or check online reviews for reliable vendors.
One bride shared: “Our local florist near Toa Payoh saved us a bundle with seasonal arrangements that looked gorgeous and fresh.”
Image Credits: unsplash.com
#5: PLAN EARLY
Planning early not only gives you peace of mind but also helps you lock in rates before prices increase. Book your venue, caterers, and key vendors at least a year in advance to take advantage of early-bird deals. With proper planning, you’ll reduce stress and enjoy the process more.
#6: DIY WHENEVER POSSIBLE
Add personality into your wedding by doing it yourself! Borrow decor from friends or use free design tools for invites. Websites like Canva offer chic templates, perfect for creating personalized wedding stationery on a budget.
#7: ENLIST THE HELP OF TALENTED FRIENDS
Your network can be your secret weapon. Have a musically inclined friend perform during the ceremony or ask an artistic one to create custom signage.
In our current wedding scene, brides are increasingly opting for friends to serve as emcees, saving costs on professional services while keeping the vibe warm and familiar.
#8: REIMAGINE TRADITIONS
Not a fan of spending hundreds on a tiered cake which can cost up to S$1,000? Swap it out for a chic dessert bar featuring macarons, cupcakes, or even a kueh platter that adds a uniquely Singaporean touch!
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Your 2025 wedding doesn’t have to drain your savings as the next marital step is more important. By setting priorities, supporting local businesses, and getting creative, you can craft a day that’s uniquely yours while keeping your wallet happy!
Latest WFH internships posted from 9 to 13 December 2024
It’s the holiday season but that doesn’t mean your job search should come to a pause.
Companies are still hiring and this week we’ve WFH internship opportunities in content writing, marketing & communications, and more.
Have a look!
#1: RizqX – Content Writer – Personal Finance
Website: rizqx.sg
Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 (project /contract based)
Job Qualifications
- Strong writing skills with impeccable grammar and attention to detail.
- Passion for storytelling, creativity, and an ability to adapt tone and style.
- Basic knowledge of SEO (preferred but not required).
- A portfolio of writing samples (published or unpublished) to showcase your skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Create engaging, well-researched, and original content for various formats, including blog posts, social media, etc.
- Research industry trends and topics to develop relevant and valuable content.
- Edit and proofread content for clarity, consistency, and SEO best practices.
- Meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
How to apply?
View the job post here and write to Foong via this link.
#2: RSP Architects Planners & Engineers – Marketing and Communications Intern
Website: rsp.design
Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly
Job Qualifications
- An open mind and positive attitude
- Sensitive to the needs of the different RSP geographical markets
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in design, video production, or other creative work is a plus
Key Responsibilities
- Day-to-day management of RSP social media accounts
- Develop and create curated content across different platforms e.g. presentation decks for clients, social media posts, brand story articles
- Provide data-driven insights into RSP’s digital and social media platforms
- Support media engagement, internal and external communications across the group
- Liaise with internal and external stakeholders as well as draft content for RSP’s global clients’ newsletter
- Design and copywrite RSP’s new global proposal submission template in accordance with the RSP brand guidelines
- Support RSP’s B2B marketing events planning and logistics
- Support marketing and communications BAU work across department
How to apply?
View the job post here and apply for this position by sending your CV to [email protected].
#3: Smart Bite – Business Development Representative Intern
Website: trysmartbite.com
Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly
Job Qualifications
- Recent graduates or individuals completing their Bachelor’s Degree in any field.
- Ability to commit to a 3 or 6-month period.
- Strong work ethic, with a proactive and flexible approach to responsibilities.
- Proven leadership skills through academic, extracurricular, or volunteer activities.
- Excellent verbal and written English proficiency to thrive in a multicultural environment.
- Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Interest in entrepreneurship, startups, and contributing to a fast-growing company.
- Passionate about pursuing a career in sales and business development.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the sales team in identifying and building relationships with corporate clients and vendors.
- Assist in lead generation, proposal preparation, and follow-up communications.
- Participate in sales calls, meetings, and presentations to understand client engagement strategies.
- Analyze sales data and market trends to inform decision-making and strategy development.
- Collaborate on marketing initiatives to boost SmartBite’s brand presence.
- Coordinate sales-related events and campaigns.
- Provide administrative support for seamless sales processes.
How to apply?
View the job post here and write to Arun Prasanth via this link.
#4: Archangel Digital Studios – Social Media Design Intern
Website: archangeldigitalstudios.com
Allowance / Remuneration: $600 – 850 monthly
Job Qualifications
- Diploma, degree, or experience in design.
- A keen eye for aesthetics.
- Highly motivated and proactive.
- Able to turn around designs quickly.
- Able to work independently, methodically, and meet deadlines.
- Experience with Web Development platforms WIX, WordPress & Shopify advantageous but optional.
Key Responsibilities
- Create creative content for marketing collaterals such as flyers & emailers.
- Design posts for social media & advertising.
- Keep up to date with industry changes and the latest in social media design.
How to apply?
View the job post here and write to Shawn Dass via this link.
#5: Tenable Network Security – APJ Marketing Intern
Website: tenable.com
Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,500 monthly
Job Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a diploma or bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Ability to multi-task and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Outstanding oral and written communication skills
- Must be detail-oriented and capable of accurate work with minimal supervision
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in organizing marketing events, both digital and in-person
- Assist in preparing and coordinating content for marketing activities
- Assist in analyzing marketing data (leads, campaign results, conversion rates)
- Collaborate with other functional team members on various marketing projects
- Performs other related duties as assigned
How to apply?
View the job post here and email your text CV to Lily Low at [email protected].
Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more details, contact the employer directly.
Here’s How I Plan to Redeem a Round-Trip Business Class Ticket to Hong Kong with My New Credit Card and Savings Account
I’ve been on the lookout for a credit card with the best rewards and after some research, I stumbled on this combo:
UOB Lady’s Credit Card x UOB Lady’s Savings Account
I’m excited to make the most out of my savings and spending, knowing that signing up for both can earn me up to an impressive 25X UNI$ per S$5 spent, equivalent to 10 miles per S$1!
How It Works for Me:
- UOB Lady’s Credit Card: I earn 10X UNI$ per S$5 spent on up to two of my preferred rewards category(ies). That’s 4 miles for every S$1 I spend.
- UOB Lady’s Savings Account: I boost my rewards with up to an additional 15X UNI$ per S$5 spent on my preferred rewards category(ies), adding up to 6 more miles per S$1.
Plus, there’s no lock-in period, giving me the flexibility to choose and change my preferred rewards category(ies) every quarter.
And the best part? There’s no minimum spend required, allowing me to earn rewards on my terms!
Painting the Picture:
I have plans to maintain a S$50,000 Monthly Average Balance (MAB) in my UOB Lady’s Savings Account and spend S$800 each month on my preferred rewards category(ies) with my UOB Lady’s Credit Card.
For me, a monthly S$800 spend is easily attainable since I spend the bulk on the Beauty & Wellness and Dining categories.
Here’s the rough breakdown if you’re interested:
- Gym membership ($100)
- Beauty/cosmetic buys ($100)
- Personal grooming such as hairdressing, facial treatment/hair removal, nails/lash/eyebrows, etc. ($300)
- Dining at my favourite restaurant and ordering food via foodpanda ($300)
This means in just one month, I could rack up 3,200 UNI$.
Keeping this up for 12 months means I could gather a whopping 38,400 UNI$ in a year!
Redeeming My Rewards:
I can convert these UNI$ into 76,800 KrisFlyer miles (1 UNI$ = 2 miles).
With that, I could snag my round-trip business class ticket to Hong Kong* within a year! It would be my first-ever business class experience.
But if I decide not to spend all my UNI$ on flying, I have plenty of other options too.
I can redeem my UNI$ for rewards from a variety of dining, shopping, and travel merchants on UOB Rewards+.
In essence, whether I’m aiming for luxury travel or indulging in simple everyday perks, the benefits add up quickly!
*Based on Singapore Airline’s Saver Awards Chart as of October 2023, excluding taxes, charges, and fees.
Maximizing Your Rewards:
You can choose and change your preferred rewards category(ies) every quarter. These include:
- Dining
- Travel
- Fashion
- Beauty & Wellness
- Family
- Transport
- Entertainment
This flexibility means you can adapt as your spending habits and priorities shift.
Switch to whatever categories you deem fit quarterly to maximize your UNI$ and get the best rewards for your spending and savings!
For example, during the year-end holiday season, I can switch my rewards category to Travel. This allows me to book air tickets and easily hit the S$800 spending target in a single transaction!
By consistently managing my spending, I can easily accumulate a significant amount of UNI$ annually. During travel months, I can reach the monthly spending target even faster by booking air tickets and covering other travel expenses.
If you have more savings to park aside and can maintain at least a S$100,000 MAB, you can earn an additional 15X Lady’s Savings Bonus UNI$ on your preferred rewards category(ies).
So, it’s smart to consolidate your purchases with the Lady’s Credit Card to maximize your Lady’s Savings Bonus UNI$.
Curious About Your Rewards?
Wondering how many UNI$ and miles YOU can rack up based on YOUR spending and savings?
Simply click this link to UOB’s official website and click on ‘Calculator’ to access the ‘Lady’s Card and Lady’s Savings Account Calculator’ to enter your details and see your potential rewards in a flash!
Just like this:
Subsequently, as a card member, you can easily view, track and redeem your UNI$ rewards all on the UOB TMRW app.
For details on how to redeem your UNI$ on the go with the UOB TMRW app, click through the link to learn more.
Additional Perks:
With the UOB Lady’s Card, you can also enjoy:
- 0% LuxePay Interest-Free Payment Plan over 6 or 12 months on your luxury purchase (shoes or bags)
- Exclusive Birthday Treats during your birthday month
- e-Commerce Protection for your online purchases
- Complimentary Travel Insurance covering up to 100,000 USD
For the UOB Lady’s Savings Account:
- Receive up to S$240 in cash credit when you apply online
That’s not all! Receive a pair of Gentle Monster sunglasses when you spend with UOB Lady’s Credit Card or save with UOB Lady’s Savings Account. Promotion is from 8 Nov – 31 Dec 2024.
T&Cs apply, of course. Insured up to S$100k by SDIC.
So stop waiting and join me right away by signing up now here.
Happy saving and spending together!