Since I’ll be documenting, I think I’ll do a series of my wedding/engagement preparation.
There’s a couple of things that needs to be in place, date and gifts. What I plan to give is the following (should not be limited to..)
- Engagement Ring
- Cloth for Solemnization
- Praying mat and Telekong
- Chocolates
- Cake
Engagement Ring
This could be one of most expensive, priceless and worthless thing you’ll ever buy. When I say worthless, it means there’s no value if I were to resell. Get white gold with diamond as it surely holds the rock (yellow gold is pretty weak). If you’re having problem paying it lump sum, get a credit card to finance it for you. Zero interest for 6 or 12 months. Budget, it’s up to you to fork out how much you’re willing to pay. It’ll start from the price of a netbook all the way to the moon.
Cloth for Solemnization
It consists of two main cloth: 4 meters of satin and 4 meters of chiffon. The one above is too expensive (1k plus) so we got another one. This will be given to her and it’s up to her to get a tailor or do it herself. It’ll be worn during solemnization (majlis nikah). Get lesser beads, it’s easier to work with. Note: Some added bridal lace or net.
Praying mat and Telekong
I have one particular praying mat that I love to use. It’s black and it’s awesome. Although used, I bet she’ll like it. We plan to get telekong around Masjid India area next week.
Chocolates and Cake
Nothing beats Ferrero Rocher, it screams exclusivity although easily available. As for cake.. I think I’ll get muffins provided Cik Kiah is around. If not, I’ll probably have to ask mom what’s appropriate.
I was told by my peers that by tradition, the girl’s side needs to counter my gifts by additional two. Example, if I gave 5, she needs to return 7. That’s a lot.
So that’s it for now. The main thing that you need to know; don’t burden your partner with lavish gifts, it will tie you down in the long run. Spend on things you feel right. After all, it’s not the gifts you’re getting married to.
After hours of wondering around the same place at Jackel, we concluded this will be her Solemnization cloth. Classic shaped ornaments 🙂
Another good tip: Get a keen sales helper to sort you out to make things painless. Avoid straight guys at all cost. All they care is making commission. Fortunately, we had Nik to help.
ps: I sense envy from the makcik behind.
pps: Or it’s weird to see people with dSLR at Jackel.