The Value of Arrhae

 

It’s been a while since my last post, pardon for not updating this blog due to busy schedule preparing for the wedding. Even though we’re getting near the wedding date, I promise to continue sharing our experiences and chronicle this significant life event. I have a lot of stories to share including my wedding gown and wedding invitation. I will also share what happen during the final detailing with the caterer and one of the most important thing you need to know – preparing the documents you need, attending the pre-marriage counseling and family planning.

23 days before the big day! I would like to share one of the symbols used in the wedding ceremony – the ARRHAE, wedding coins or arras.

Arrhae or most popularly called wedding coins or arras symbolizes the groom’s ability to support his bride. While most arrhae nowadays comes in different precious metals, the traditional arrahae used are coins. In the Philippines, it’s 13 pieces 25 centavo coins or a 1 peso coins.

Traditionally, the number 13 represents Jesus and His apostles. In modern day, these coins can also be used in weddings regardless of religion. I’ve seen them being used in most Catholic wedding ceremonies and even us on a Christian wedding ceremony will be using the arras.

It was August of last year when we started attending bridal fairs to meet suppliers. Themes and Motifs Wedding Expo in SMX was one of those that we visited. That same day, our blogger friend Jeman, also invited us to the launch of Endless Treasures, a wedding arrhae from Golden Hills Jewelry. And since we’re already there it’s just okay to attend the said event. 

Endless Treasures is the brand name of a set of wedding arrhae. Each coin embodies a virtue essential for a more fruitful married life.

Yes, there are other brands with arrhae coins and we get it free from the set of wedding gown we purchased. Endless Treasures signifies a distinct set of virtues that were combine. These are Love, Wisdom, Discipline, Spirituality, Optimism, Forgiveness, Trust, Gentleneess, Gratitude, Respect, Integrity, Passion and Perseverance.

They are available in three different colors – silver, gold or a combination of silver and gold. The actual coin is made out of brass. Each coin is sealed with a plastic cover to protect and prevent from easily tarnishing or being scratched.

Why virtues? I also asked myself what’s the difference and the significance to the couple. I believe each symbol is open for individual’s interpretations. We can use it everyday while reminiscing or reflecting on our relationship. We will celebrate our anniversary every year and our Endless Treasures will be our guide as we reflect on our married life. 

These virtues brings a deeper meaning to the traditional arras. What’s nice is that you don’t just keep it after the wedding, you can put them on a frame and display with the couple’s favorite photo the same way you display your most beautiful wedding photo. Frames are also available at Golden Hills Jewelry.

I became interested after learning about Endless Treasures. I even asked Jonel if we should get one but we were surprised to receive a silver coins right after the launch. Wow, it was our very first wedding gift! Thank you Golden Hills Jewelry!

Few months later and I am starting to gather the things I’ll be needing for my wedding, placing them in a big box so I won’t miss a thing. My arras or should I call Endless Treasures are ready to be carried by Jonel’s nephew, Seth. There are few other things to accomplish including our wedding ring, though. We had a hard time choosing the design. We went to different jewelry shops, checked on e-bay and even visited Ongpin, a popular place for jewelries and wedding rings but still we can’t find the one we want. Last night, we passed by Suarez Jewelry Shop located in Gateway mall, there are nice couple’s ring yet we haven’t seen the perfect pair for us. This coming Saturday will be our last bridal fair (of course for our own wedding prep) in SMX, hopefully we could find the one for us.

By the way, Golden Hills offers engagement and wedding rings too! During the fair they offered up to 40% discount on wedding rings.

For your information, a set of wedding ring ranges from 10k and up. Most of the wedding rings we saw ranges from 40 thousand pesos and up (with diamond) however there are jewelry shops offering great discounts especially during wedding fairs.

 

Endless Treasures Price List:

• Silver color Php3,500 / Gold color Php 4,000 / Two-tone color Php4,500
• Additional display materials: Frame and board Php2,500

Check out their Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/EndlessTreasures

Related Post: http://weddingbellsmanila.blogspot.com/2012/10/from-bridal-fairs-to-our-very-first.html