Cutty

I am starting a series of posts chronicling my exploits as an Entrepreneur. I am hoping that my experience in dealing with different agencies help out novices out there. The first step is to get your business name registered. At dti.gov.ph, you get the basic steps. It is highly recommended that you come to the DTI office since the BNRS page isn't very reliable. Before going to the DTI office, arm yourself with a government-issued ID and several business name options.  I prepared three. Though most government agencies open at 8am, people fall in line at the DTI office earlier than that.  I found out that they usually reach their quota by 8AM.  I arrived at 6:45AM and I was already 29th in the queue.  The Highway 54 branch's cut off is 140 customers.  Be sure to fall in line really early.  Since January is the month for business permit renewal, expect to see long queues everyday. Upon arriving, get forms from the guard on duty.  Be sure to fill ...

Our anniversary dinner is one of the occasions I really look forward to.  It's like a continuation of the holidays.  It was pure indulgence.  Guiltless, too. Last year's celebration was at Lemuria.  The ambience and the food were perfect for celebrating.  This year, we decided to go back to our usual special place.  This is why. An assortment of cheeses and charcuterie plus my favorite dried figs to start of the meal.  It is quite disappointing that the truffle honey was no longer part of the buffet.  Other than that, I'd say the Cheese Atelier was quite exciting.  There are just too many to choose from.   Then there's the unlimited foie gras. You get as much your conscience can take. Vic and I shared this plate.   Most importantly, their famous chocolate chip cookies and a variety of desserts.  I'd be truly disappointed if the cookies were missing.  It really was the perfect ending to the meal. ...

On the eve of January 14, I couldn't sleep.  It wasn't because I was having second thoughts.  I was too excited to fall asleep. Our wedding was going to take place at 3:30PM.  This was the culmination of a year-long preparation.  I remember people coming in at 10AM to prepare everything.  I don't remember eating lunch. I told myself I wouldn't cry as I walked down the aisle.  But, I was crying till it was time for the sermon.  Both Vic and I were crying.  I remember laughing at ourselves because we couldn't stop crying. After having our pictures taken at the pool-side, I remember having this urge to pee.   Three people held up my gown as I relieved myself.  It was so embarrassing.  I couldn't even close the door because of the volume of the skirt.  But there was no other way.  Thankfully, these were people I grew up with. I am forever thankful to the following who made our wedding day memorable and worry-free: T...

My December went by in a blur.  There was no time to relax and savor the season.  I'm sure yours was the same.  Allow me share with you what kept me busy. Cathy's Kitchen was a hit.  I had orders till Christmas Eve.  S'mores and Carrot cakes were still the best sellers.  I'm glad that I was able to accommodate some last minute orders.  I baked whenever I could squeeze it in, in between meals, rehearsals, Christmas shopping and hiring.  I baked till past midnight, up to the time I still had LPG left.  Unfortunately, my Kitchen Aid complained about too much work it has been getting.  Thankfully, my food processor was good enough to do the work.  I just have to figure out where I can have my Kitchen Aid fixed. I also finally got the courage to have a local cafe sample my cakes.  They liked it. I am currently waiting for repeat orders. The ACS had a busy season also.  The Tantoco family has been very generous to us. ...