E: yes, it is. We’ve been dating for over 7 years. We have decided to get married on a special day and we think August 8th, 2008 is a red-letter day.

S: good for you! It sounds like you’ve done a lot of planning in a very short time.

E: yes, there is a lot of to be taken care of---wedding photos, wedding dress, catering, transport, hotel, etc…

S: is everything ready now?

E: almost. The only thing that isn’t ready is the hotel. As a lot of people have chosen that day to get married, it is hard to find a hotel that isn’t too expensive.

S: have you tried The Peninsula Palace Beijing? My wedding reception was held there and they did an excellent job.

E: yes, we called, but it is booked up. The only choice is the Regent Beijing but we haven’t made up our minds yet.

S: it’s an excellent hotel. A friend of mine had her wedding reception there and sasid it was perfect, though very expensive.

E: that’s why we want to have a look at other hotels. We don’t want to spend too much on an extravagant wedding reception.

S: I guess you’re right. I can help you ask other hotels. I am sure there are probably some available.

E: thank you.

S: my pleasure.