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8 Alternative Venues To Hold A Unique Wedding In Singapore Under $20K 

Ideally, marriage only happens once in a lifetime. Therefore, we approach wedding planning with utmost seriousness. Every couple has a dream wedding in mind, from the theme to the location and the wedding dress. We all want to have a perfect wedding.

But with the high costs of living in Singapore, planning a wedding can be taxing on the wallet.

Instead of traditional hotel banquets, we can consider alternative wedding venues. These locations allow you to be more creative in coming up with new concepts that are not only aesthetically appealing, but also more economic.

If you’re getting hitched and have a tight budget, here are some affordable alternative wedding venues in Singapore to fit a guest list that ranges between 50 to 395 guests.

1. Grand Shanghai Restaurant

With its dark wood-polished floors, vintage ceiling fans, and ornate lamps and lanterns, Grand Shanghai offers an exotic location that stands out from your usual Chinese restaurant.

This venue offers ample space to comfortably fit 200 guests while keeping to the $20K budget.

The spacious floor plan also allows in-house jazz performances, and guests can dine in luxury and be delighted with traditional Shanghainese delicacies, such as Wuxi short ribs, braised ‘lion’s head’ and Peking duck.

Grand Shanghai Restaurant
Address: Grand Shanghai Restaurant, Level 1 King’s Centre, 390 Havelock Road, S169662
Price: One table starts at $899++ (min. 20 tables)
Capacity: 200 – 260 guests
Tel: 6836 6866
Website: Credit: Credit:

3. Fu Lin Men @ Jurong Country Club

This country club has been an understatement for years.

Apart from its lush greenery, Jurong Country Club is one of the many awesome alternative wedding venues with an affordable wedding reception.

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4. Vineyard @ Hort Park

With Singapore’s humid weather, tying the knit out in nature can be tricky. That’s why picking a location that comes with both indoor and alfresco setting solves the simple problem.

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5. Masons @ Gillman Barracks

Housed in a 1930s colonial black and white bungalow, the Masons carries a sophisticated vibe that is charming and alluring.

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With its lush greenery and open grounds, this alternative wedding venue is perfect for a garden wedding or an intimate vintage-themed ceremony indoors.

Whether you want an international menu or buffet dining, the dedicated event team at MASONS can ensure a smooth sailing wedding that matches your budget. Wedding packages begin at $8,000 for 50 guests. To fit a $20K budget, just make sure your number of guest falls below 100 pax.

MASONS
Address: 8 Lock Road, Gillman Barracks, S108936
Price: $8,000++ for up to 50 guests
Capacity: 50 – 150 guests
Tel: 8222 3875
Email: [email protected]
Website: Credit:

7. Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

Fancy holding a reception by the sea?

Well, check out Singapore’s very first yacht club. It’s the perfect choice for a romantic sunset wedding with 240 guests or less.

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Couples may choose between a chic indoor celebration at the Nautical Ballroom and a charming alfresco solemnisation by the sea at the Foreshore Deck.

Choosing the Chinese package will allow you to hold a wedding dinner for 240 pax or less while the international buffet option complies up to 395 guests.

Whether you opt for an 8-course Chinese dinner or an international buffet dinner, you can expect a scrumptious feast by magnificent views of yachts and marine.

Republic of Singapore Yacht Club
Address: 52 West Coast Ferry Road S126887
Price: Solemnization packages start at $1,288++ (max. 30 pax) / Chinese packages start at $788++ for one table (min. 10 tables) / International Buffet packages start at $48++ per guest (min. 100 pax)
Capacity: 100 – 250 guests
Tel: 6768 9297 / 292 / 294
Email: [email protected]
Website: Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

8. Tanjong Beach Club

It’s summer all year round in Singapore and where better to hold a beach-themed wedding than at our sun kissed country?

[caption id="attachment_21722" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Credit: [email protected]
Website:

Also, read 8 Enchanting & Secret Photography Spots You Never Knew Existed

A #TBT To How S’pore Looked Like 20 Years Ago – We Felt A Wave Of Nostalgia Looking At #2!

10 years ago, it was the year 2007. And the 90’s were 20 whole years ago. Does anyone else feel old?

From the 1990s to the current day, Singapore has gone through a tremendous change. Take a trip down memory lane with us through these 20 pictures of 1990s Singapore. You’ll be surprised at how different Singapore is now compared to your childhood days.

1. Capitol Theatre

Then

Now

This 87-year-old landmark was first built in 1930, and could seat more than 1600 people in the auditorium.

By 1998, it screened its last movie and closed down, unable to compete with newer, more technologically advanced cinemas around Singapore. After 9 years, it was reopened again on May 19 2015. Now, there are movies as well as in-house theatre and dance productions featuring local and Asian repertoire.

2. Marina Bay Sands

The area where Marina Bay Sands now stands was initially just a huge reclaimed land.

With plans that have been in the works since 1983, the entire Marina Bay Sands project took 34 years to become the impressive integrated resort we know today.

With the completion of the Sands Theatre and Grand Theatre, we are now treated to globally renowned acts like The Lion King and Wicked. Coupled with the ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands has become THE place to be for everything cool, from arts and culture to shopping and eating!

3. National Library at Stamford Road

Then

Now

The original National Library of Singapore at Stamford Road was first completed in 1960, and for many of us, the place where our love for reading began.

On 31 March 2004, our collective hearts broke as the doors of the library closed for the last time. While we may miss the old library, the new national library is a sight to behold. Home to the Black Box, an outdoor garden and 7 full floors dedicated to the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, the new National Library at Bras Basah helps to keeps our love for reading alive.

4. Bugis Street

Then

Now

Our very own Singapore-style version Taiwan Night Market, Bugis Street was where we flocked to for cheap clothes and apparels after school.

With our miniscule pocket money, Bugis Street was a godsend for the blossoming shopaholics in us. Cleaner, more fashionable and slightly pricier, new Bugis Street now hosts even more shops, some are even air-conditioned!

5. Playgrounds

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22139" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo Credits:

Back in the 90’s, going to the playground meant playing with kids from the neighbourhood, porcelain tiled dragon architecture, as well as bloody knees if we had the misfortune of falling in the sand.

These days, playgrounds are more avant-garde in design, with safe rubber-foam flooring. There is also a growing trend in inclusiveness, starting with playgrounds for children with special needs and special wheelchair swings.

6. Buses

Then

[caption id="attachment_22772" align="alignnone" width="640"] Photo Credits: remembersingapore.org[/caption]

Now

Decked in the iconic red and white colours of our nation, the buses of the past were stuffy, non-air conditioned, and dispensed paper tickets when you boarded the bus.

20 years down the road, we now see buses in different colours. Not just that, they’re also air-conditioned, wheelchair accessible and bus fares are now payable with cards.

7. National Stadium

Then

Now

The old Kallang Stadium was THE place to be for every primary 5 child a few days before National Day. Wearing red or white t-shirts to school, we were proud to wave our miniature national flags (all while digging through the goody bags for the yearly signature gifts).

On 30 June 2014, Singapore welcomed the new and improved National Stadium. An all-weather sports and events venue, it has a retractable roof that keeps out the rain and doubles as a huge projector screen. It even has a state-of-the-art cooling system, allowing for cool air at 23 degrees to be pumped out from beneath the seats. Partially powered by solar panels, the cool air is even environmentally friendly!

Having played host to singers like Stefanie Sun and Jay Chou, as well as the 28th SEA Games in 2015, the National Stadium provides a comfortable, yet magnificent stage for arts, culture and sports alike.

8. Sentosa

Then

Now

Do you remember having to take a ferry to Sentosa island? Back then, we were easily excited by the wax museum depicting Singapore’s past, as well as climbing up the huge Merlion statue.

Fast-forward 20 years and Sentosa island is now home to a huge amusement-resort. You’ll be surprised to know that this island is no longer just for the beach lovers and thrill seekers.

Theatre geeks and concertgoers can enjoy amazing performances like Yellowcard – The Final World Tour at Resorts World Theatre, and the daily Monster Rock show at Pantages Hollywood Theatre at Universal Studios Singapore.

9. MRT

Then

Now

Back then, there were only 2 lines: Red and Green. More accurately, the North-South line and the East-West line. After that, you had to take a bus to get to your specific destination.

These days, there are 5 MRT lines with 2 more on the way, and 3 LRT lines. In the past, we didn’t need to refer to the System map when travelling somewhere new. Now, I find myself googling ‘MRT map’ very often.

10. Hard Rock Cafe

Then

Now

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The ever-famous Cadillac was taken down on May 16 2016 in preparation for a makeover of the Hard Rock Cafe. The 1961 Cadillac Series 62 Deville represented the Rock and Roll times that Hard Rock Cafe stood for.

Fortunately, Hard Rock Cafe is still rocking even without its signature Cadillac. With Kumar taking the stage alongside live music performances and open mic shows, Hard Rock Cafe keeps our love for music and comedy alive.

11. King Albert Park

Then

Now

Students of Bukit Timah, namely MGS, ACS, Nanyang Girls’, NJC and many others will always have fond memories of King Albert Park (affectionately known as KAP). Many after school hours were spent studying in McDonald’s, shopping at Cold Storage, and eating ice cream at Island Creamery.

Closed on 16 March 2014 for its transformation into a condominium, this is yet another childhood memory that we say goodbye to in our ever-developing Singapore.

12. Big Splash Complex at East Coast Park

[caption id="attachment_22788" align="alignnone" width="645"] Photo Credits: Akitek Tenggara Collection, courtesy of National Archives of Singapore[/caption]

Before Wild Wild Wet or Adventure Cove, there was the Big Splash! Slides which were more than 6 storeys high. They were supposedly the tallest slides in the world back in 1977.

After 40 years of bringing water-related thrills to Singaporeans, the water park closed on 21 October 2016, and the land was returned to the government for redevelopment.

13. Marine Aquarium at Wisma Atria

A cheap alternative to Underwater world was to take a trip to Wisma Atria and stare at the fishes in the Marine Aquarium. Filled with exotic seawater fishes, corals and even tiny sharks, we would chase the swimming fishes round and round the 1.5m tall tank.

Sadly, good things don’t last forever. The Marine Aquarium was taken down in 2008 and the aquatic creatures were transferred to their new home at Underwater World Singapore.

14. Tang Dynasty Village

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22756" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo Credits: Lam Chun See[/caption]

Opened in 1992, Tang Dynasty Village was a literal blast to the past where visitors could visit a replica of the Tang Dynasty Capital in Singapore.

Featuring an army of terracotta warriors, a courthouse, geisha house, camel rides and a wax museum among other displays, this attraction was totally cool but did not come cheap. Back then, $30 entrance fees were not affordable for some families.

Coupled with the 90’s Asian Economic Crisis, it closed down in 1999, after a short 7-year run.

15. Escape Theme Park

Then

Now

Escape Theme Park made way for an expansion of Wild Wild Wet

Who can forget travelling all the way to Pasir Ris to race in go-carts, splash down the Wet & Wild log-ride and be tossed about the insanely fast Panasonic/Alpha 8.

On November 26, 2011, we said goodbye to Escape Theme Park as plans for the Downtown East revamp began. Wild Wild Wet was opened next door shortly after the closure, but it just wasn’t the same.

16. Queenstown Cinema

A cinema right beside a bowling alley, not to mention a KTV outlet, this was the best after school/work hang out for Queenstown residents.

I remember coming here after dinner with my cousins to bowl, even though we mostly watched the balls enter the gutters. Closed in 1999 and demolished in 2011, the rubble may be gone but the memories remain.

17. Istana Kampong Gelam (now Malay Heritage Centre)

The Istana Kampong Gelam used to be the palace of Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor in 1819, where it went on to house generations of Sultan Hussein’s successors.

In 1999, after the Sultan Hussein Ordinance was enacted and revised for the last time, residents living in the Istana were resettled. In time, the building was restored and transformed into the Malay Heritage Centre in 2004.

With 6 permanent galleries showcasing stories and artefacts that tell of Kampong Gelam’s historical significance, as well as new monthly exhibits, visitors are given a precious insight into our country’s culture and history.

18. HMV at Heeren

Then

Now

Home to the first and last HMV store in Singapore, teens would flock here to listen to the latest album releases for free.

Opened in 1997, the 25,000-sqf store saw 8 years of music lovers pass through its 3 levels before closing officially on 30 September 2015.

19. Underwater World Singapore

The fishes from Wisma Atria’s Marine Aquarium found their way here and lived happily until 26 June 2016 when Underwater World Singapore closed down.

While the ‘bigger and better’ version, namely S.E.A Aquarium, held a whopping 100,000 plus marine animals of over 800 species, Underwater World’s 2,500 plus marine animals of 250 species was more than enough for our childhood.

20. A&W

[caption id="attachment_22798" align="alignnone" width="700"] Photo Credits:

These days, ask most teens if they know A&W and they’ll answer that it’s a carbonated root beer beverage. Back in the 90’s, it was a fast food restaurant on a boat! Stationed on the Stewards Riverboat at the Sentosa Coastline, it was the only fast food franchise that felt classy as you chow down on burgers, fries and an A&W Root Beer Float.

Singapore’s Transformation

These 20 pictures show us the immense change that Singapore has undergone since the 90’s, and with the ever-increasing development of our country, who knows whether our favourite places will stick around in 2037?

Make as many memories as possible by visiting and attending events, attractions, and activities in Singapore. So start visiting and get your cameras clicking away, before time takes away more of our monumental places in Singapore.

(Header image credit: With Over 1,000 Stalls, This Year’s Geylang Bazaar Will Keep You Coming Back For More 

The Most Romantic Dinner + Night Stroll Places In Singapore For A Lovey-Dovey V Day

The most romantic day of the year is upon us! Whether you’re looking to seal the deal, pop the question, or simply treat your special someone to an unforgettable day or night out, where you do it is often as important as the act itself.

Luckily for you, we’ve rounded up 8 of the most romantic locations you can find in Singapore, from the loveliest dinner environments to the most peaceful spots for a post dinner walk.

It’ll be a memorable Valentine’s Day to be etched in your hearts forever.

Dinner

1. The Disgruntled Brasserie

Twin to The Disgruntled Chef, The Disgruntled Brasserie boasts the original restaurant’s cosy plantation theme.

Dark greens, hand crafted mirrors, and leather seats come together for a intimate setting.  Its relaxed take on the usual stuffy fine dining allows for a night of open conversation.

Specially for this Valentine’s Day, The Disgruntled Brasserie is introducing a 6-course Valentine’s Day Set Menu for two–perfect for indulging your loved one this season.

The Disgruntled Brasserie’s Valentine’s Day Set
Venue: The Disgruntled Brasserie’s, 28 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069708​
Dates: 10 – 13 February 2017 (Both a la carte and set menu available) & 14 February 2017 (Only set menu available at 2 seatings: 5.30pm to 8.15pm OR 8.30pm to 10.30pm)
Price: $88++ per person (inclusive of a glass of Laurent Perrier Brut NV)
Reservations: (65) 6808​ ​2184
2. Tippling Club

Embark on a romantic journey specially made for two tastebuds, with Tippling Club’s eight splendid courses.

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Set to impress, the Valentine’s Day menu celebrates the bar’s highlights such as Razor Clams steeped in a purple garlic soup and a Foie Gras layered in textures of peach and gold.

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Each dish is adorned with exquisite ingredients sourced exclusively to pamper your loved one.

What better place worthier of your love than this world class bar? After all, Tippling Club’s award winning cuisines and cocktails pair almost as well as you two do.

Tippling Club’s Valentine’s Day Dinner
Venue: Tippling Club, 38 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088461
Date: Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Price: S$340++ per pax for an eight-course dinner
Reservations: (65) 6475 2217
Enquiries: [email protected]
3. Open Door Policy

Open Door Policy puts the ‘heart’ in ‘hearty’ this Valentine’s Day, with a fanfare of cheekily named gluten and dairy free selections, on it’s special menu for the season!

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With dishes like Be Yours First (a medley of warm beetroot, scallop and black oyster), Touch My Sweet ‘Pot (a tummy warming sweet potato soup served with home planted greens), it’s only certain that you’ll win the heart of your one and only more than ever.

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Cool and welcoming, the mix of brick and wood panelling in Open Door Policy gives it a down to earth feel–perfect for honest heart to heart conversation.

Open Door Policy Valentine’s Menu
Venue: Open Door Policy, 19 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168650
Date: Monday, 13 February 2017 and Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Price: S$80++ per pax; S$148++ per couple
Reservations: (65) 6221 9307
Enquiries: [email protected]
Facebook

4. Open Farm Community

Paint the perfect backdrop for a romantic night out with lush greenery under a blanket of stars at Open Farm Community.

The chief chefs forage its edible garden for a farm fresh selection of herbs, fruits and vegetables that make their way into delectable dishes. It’s all both nourishing, and a visual feast.

Whet your appetite with the smoked citrus cured salmon carpaccio or heirloom tomato salad for the appetizer. Delve into the sumptuous mains of vanilla parsnip risotto or roasted spanish mackerel.

Lastly, let the dessert, black forest with cherry sorbet, be the cherry on top of your perfect date night.

Open Farm Community Valentine’s Day Dinner
Venue: Open Farm Community, 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819
Date: Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Price: S$80++ per pax for a three-course dinner; S$128++ per pax for a five-course tasting menu
Reservations: (65) 6471 0306
Enquiries: [email protected]
Post-Dinner Walk

1. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Travel back in time and go on a romantic stroll at the Botanic Gardens, which could very well be Singapore’s first ever date spot.

The various nooks and crannies of the park, shrouded by leafy greens and splashes of pretty flowers, offer the perfect backdrop for a secluded V-day rendezvous.

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Some of the most picturesque spots include the Swan Lake Gazebo, the majestic Burmese Banyan tree, and the Bandstand.

[caption id="attachment_22810" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image credit: Chris Chang Photography[/caption]

The various food spots in the Gardens–Food For Thought, Blue Bali, Casa Verde and more–are also offering special V-day treats.

Newly-opened The Garage, is also offering a Valentine’s Day Picnic Basket for those looking for a laid-back, nature-filled date.

Singapore Botanic Gardens
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road Singapore 259569
Open: 5am to 12am daily
Tel: 6465 0196
Email: [email protected]
Website

2. Henderson Waves

Take your date to new heights with a trek along along the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, the Henderson Waves.

The glowing lights and cosy little alcoves make this gorgeous bridge, cutting across Telok Blangah Hill Park and Mt Faber Park, a pretty sweet spot for a stroll at dusk.

Enjoy a stunning, bird’s eye view of the the sun setting on the island behind your loved one. For the shutterbugs and nature lovers, keep walking along the Southern Ridges to the Forest Walk and Canopy Walk, to capture the beauty of wild flowers and fauna.

Feel on top of the world with your other half at this relaxing date spot, a romantic and tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Henderson Waves Bridge
Address: Henderson Road, Mount Faber Park, 099203
Open: Daily, 24 hours

3. Changi Point Coastal Walk

Chalets and nasi lemak aside, Changi has a beautiful boardwalk most of us aren’t aware of, the Changi Point Coastal Walk.

Nestled at the western end of Changi Point, this quiet two kilometres stretch will take you lovebirds through lush stretches of flora and fauna, and the picture perfect Changi Beach.

Chill in the cool ocean breeze as you take your romantic over-water stroll, for a dream beach vacation without having to leave our shores.

Earlybirds can catch the sunrise near the start of Boardwalk at Beach Walk, or enjoy the sunset near the end at Sunset Walk.

You’ll be sure to capture not only the panoramic views all the way to Pulau Ubin, but more importantly, your lover’s heart.

Changi Point Coastal Walk
Address: 6 Changi Village Rd, Singapore 509907
Open: Daily, 24 hours

4. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Want to truly indulge your partner this Valentine’s Day? Your dream escape awaits at Marina Bay Sands, perhaps Singapore’s most iconic hotel.

Clink champagne glasses and drink in the beauty of the whole city, or stretch out to sunbathe on a soft poolside lounger.

Even if you haven’t booked a room, you can still gain access to all the luxurious facilities (except the infinity pool). The Skypark offers various chances for you and your loved one to share cuisines, drinks and make memories against a stunning backdrop of city lights and skyscrapers–all 57 storeys high.

Marina Bay Sands Skypark
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Open: Daily, 9.30am to 7pm
Tel: 6688 8888 (Hotel Reservations) 6688 8826 (Entertainment Ticketing)
Feeling inspired yet? Grab your loved one and head to these sweet spots to stroll, dine and make memories this Valentine’s Day!

Also, read 8 Awesome Valentine’s Day Dinner And Gift Ideas For A Truly Special Date