Ultimate Guide to Weddings in the Philippines 

Weddings in the Philippines have always been considered a grand celebration for many Filipinos. 

 

Family, friends, and relatives all come together to witness the union of two families. As an elaborate event, it is inevitable that a lot of decision-making goes into planning a wedding. After you say “yes” to getting married and before you can say “I do,” the bride and groom-to-be in the Philippines need to go through the various wedding planning stages. While weddings are ubiquitous events wherever you may be in the world, planning a wedding in the Philippines may be quite different than what we see portrayed in western television—not only because of the stark disparity of Filipino and Western culture but also because of the various traditions and processes that come with Philippine weddings. 

 

Traditional Filipino weddings require you to come up with a list of ninongs and ninangs to stand as wedding sponsors. You also need to obtain the necessary documents and requirements to ensure that you can push through with your wedding. With a lot to consider, it bears no question that weddings require meticulous planning. The list below features everything you need to know about planning a wedding so that you can create a memorable big day that you and your husband-to-be will never forget. 

 

a.) Set a realistic budget 

 

While there are some brides and grooms that dream of an elaborate event, there will be many of them who will be constrained to the budget, they said. That said, you should never proceed to plan a wedding without discussing with your partner just how much you want to spend for your celebration. As a practical couple, set a realistic budget that would not break the bank and still allow you to enjoy the wedding of your dreams. 

 

b.) Hire a wedding planner/coordinator 

To be able to enjoy your wedding day fully, it is best if you leave all the planning logistics to a wedding planner. That said, a good and effective wedding planner will truly be a blessing, depending on the kind of wedding you are planning. Be sure to read the reviews before deciding on one. Also, it is recommended to have an idea of what wedding planner services you need in order to select the best fit. 

 

c.) Wedding Requirements 

 

Wherever you may choose to solemnize your marriage—whether that may be in a church, a garden, or even in a civil ceremony, you and your partner will need to secure the necessary papers to have a wedding that is legally binding. For all the weddings celebrated and solemnized in the Philippines, a valid marriage license is required. 

 

d.) Wedding ceremony and reception venues 

During the initial stages of wedding planning, you and your partner need to decide on where you wish to have your wedding ceremony and your reception. In fact, you need to book your wedding ceremony venue and reception venue first before booking any other vendor. Choose venues that you and your partner both love, but make sure that both would fall within your budget. Catholic weddings need to be celebrated in a church, so you need to a separate venue. Civil ceremonies and Christian weddings can be celebrated in the same venue where you will be having your reception. Be sure to choose a place that can accommodate all the guests you want to be present on your big day. 

 

e.) Styling and floral arrangements 

Celebrating your big day would be incomplete without flowers to bedeck your wedding ceremony and reception venue. With that in mind, you and your partner need to think of a theme that resonates with both of you and incorporate that into the Styling of your event. From there, choose the wedding supplier that can make your vision come true—from the bridal bouquet down to the flower centerpieces. 

 

f.) Catering and food 

One of the best things about weddings is the food that is served. That said, do not let your guests leave hungry at your wedding. So, choose enough food to accommodate your guests. Keep in mind that the better the food served is, the happier your guests will be. 

g.) Wedding Cake 

Your wedding cake can act as the centerpiece of your event or can simply be an aesthetic addition to the overall Styling of your venue. So, whether you are choosing a minimalist naked cake or an elaborate multi-tiered one, make sure that it is one you would cut during the wedding reception. Like everything else, be sure to choose one that goes with your wedding them and decors. 

 

h.) Photography and videography 

Immortalize the memories of your big day by booking wedding photographers and videographers. You want every memorable moment captured on film, so be sure to choose your wedding photographers and videographers wisely. These are the memories you will want to last forever, so hire ones with a good eye for style. 

 

i.) Hair and Makeup 

It goes without question that a hair and makeup stylist will be hired for the bride and groom. However, the wedding entourage and maybe a few of the couple’s family members would require hair and makeup artists as well. Choose one with good reviews and who can also pull off the kind of look you want on your wedding day. 

 

j.) Wedding favors and giveaways 

Customarily, brides and grooms give out wedding favors and souvenirs as a token of their appreciation for being there on their biggest day. Wedding favors are an excellent way of appreciating your guests for attending your wedding. Like everything else, be sure to choose one that fits your wedding theme and also one that your guests will love. 

 

50+ Wedding Decoration Ideas

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As with any momentous occasions in life, weddings require the need for tasteful décor in order to bring the event to its fullest potential. It may even be argued that wedding decors are not so much of a bride’s option as a wedding necessity. After all, décors do not only involve a color scheme and a choice of carefully arranged flowers, they dictate the venue’s aesthetic and command the event’s overall ambiance. In this regard, weddings sans décor would be quite a boring event. As wedding decorations would help you in creating a unique wedding theme that is personal to both you and your husband-to-be, it pays to give it extra attention and focus during the wedding planning. More importantly, your choice in wedding decorations is considered a pivotal aspect in your big day insomuch that it decides the quality of your event and contributes to making your wedding memorable. So, determine what you want and thoroughly research your options to come up with the best aesthetic for your big day.

If you are looking for wedding decoration ideas to incorporate in your wedding plans, take a gander at the list below for various inspirations you can surely use on your wedding day:  

Wedding Aisle Decoration Ideas

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Walking down the aisle is one of the most-awaited anticipated moments on your wedding day. Of course, you would want everyone’s attention focused on you as you make your way to the altar. However, you do need to set up the stage for you walk tastefully enough that it enhances the flair and drama of your entrance instead of overwhelming it and detracting attention from you. You want to be careful with your choice of decors and choose only those that would give the aisle just the right panache to complement your walk to the altar. Here are some ideas:  

Custom Aisle Runner  

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Making a statement and a splash on your wedding day would be possible with a customized graphic runner. Instead of the drab and predictable typically red aisle runner, opt for something that makes more of an impact. You can customize it to not only include your names and wedding date, but you have a myriad of prints to choose from which would then complement just about any and every kind of ceremony décor.  

Floral Chair Tails

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If you have always wanted a whimsical ceremony that would rival fairytale romances, use floral chair tails as wedding aisle decorations and give your walk down the aisle more drama.  Globe string lights If you are holding your ceremony outdoors at dusk, you can light up your walk by using globe string lights as an aisle wedding décor. Alternatively, you may wish to weave them into a ceremony arch to make those wedding kiss photos pop.  

Statuesque Vases

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While this kind of aisle décor has seen in most wedding, it does get the job done of creating a beautiful ambiance for your walk down the aisle. Choose embellished vases positioned at the ends of your corridor to make a more striking and powerful impact.  

Geometric Vases

If you wish to go minimalist on your wedding decors all the while giving it a modern touch, incorporate prism-shaped or wire-wrought vases which can hold either candles or flowers. Cluster these at the end of the aisle or suspend them on your wedding arch for a more dramatic effect.

LED Candles  

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If you have always had a penchant for giving your aisle that warm glow of flickering candlelight sans the potential hazard (to your guests and your wedding dress) arrange remote-control or battery operated candles along with your walkway.  

Tastefully Strewn Petals  

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If you wish your entry will be sprinkled with flower petals sans the expensive cost, opt to drizzle, silk rose petals along the aisle before the guests arrive. To make the effect even more dramatic, have your flower girl toss them as she makes her way down the aisle.  

Welcome Sign  

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Give your guests a warm reception to your wedding ceremony by placing a wooden welcome sign placed near the aisle. Perfect for rustic themed weddings, this aisle décor just about sets the tone for a beautiful and romantic affair.

Brass Lanterns  

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Regardless of whether you opt to line them on your wedding aisle or group them together or even strung overhead, mini metal lanterns have a way of giving your ceremony an elegant and sophisticated feel.

Hot Air Balloon Paper Lanterns  

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If you wish to look for wedding decors that are genuinely out of the ordinary, choose paper lantern sets that complement your wedding theme and motif. Not only would this give your ceremony a fanciful feeling but it is a fashionable way to make a statement on your wedding.  

Wedding Guest Book Design Ideas

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One of the ways to recall your wedding day is to take a look back at the well-wishes your wedding guests gave you on that day. Instead of having your guests sign the traditional wedding guest book, opt for something that is a little more personal and unique with these ideas below:

Vintage Atlas  

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Opt for a more unconventional way of recalling your wedding guests by having them sign the pages of a vintage road atlas and then having them indicate the cities they are traveling from. Alternatively, they can opt to pitch in their suggestions of where you and your spouse should vacation to by signing on a list of countries they would have you visit.  

Painted Globe  

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If you want something that can double up as a unique décor piece in your living room, have your guests sign a chalkboard painted globe. Afterward, you can use this as an accent in your living room or home office.  

Re-use Wine Bottles  

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Instead of positioning your wedding guest book by the entrance where some of your guests can quickly forget to sign, station recycled wine bottles on each table at the reception and had your guests fill these with their messages. You can then open these in the future and reminisce about your wedding (and may even opt to open these on your golden anniversary).

Polaroids and Washi Tape

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Make your wedding guest book unforgettable by having your wedding guests DIY it for you. Have your guests take funny photos with the Polaroid camera and then affix it to a scrapbook with washi tape. From there, they can dedicate short messages to you and your spouse.  

Advice Coasters  

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Marital advice will always come in handy, and they are even more useful if they doubled up as nifty tableware. In this regard, have your guests dedicate you messages and marital advice on a piece of a coaster.  

The Sweetest Dictionary  

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Have an unconventional way of recalling your wedding day by having your guests circle a word on a carefully placed dictionary that they think best describes both of you. If they wish to comment further, they can even add a little note in the margin.  

Shadowbox Art  

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Have your guests sign wooden hearts and then have them drop it into a shadowbox and display it behind a thin pane of glass. If you think hearts are too cheesy, there are many alternative shapes for wooden tokens and frame styles. Look for one that best symbolizes the both of you.  

Modern Prints

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Print a personalized monogram which could either be a photo of both you and your spouse or one that is more unconventional (such as your thumbprints). Ensure there is a lot of white space for your family and friends to sign and then hang it somewhere in your future home.  

Game Board  

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Put a little spin into your game nights by choosing a game board that provokes the best memories. If you regularly have game nights, have your guests sign a game board or even game blocks such as Jenga or puzzle pieces. In this regard, you will remember all the warm memories you had on your big day when you bring them out and play.  

Snail Mail  

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If you look forward to getting mail every single day, ask your wedding guests to sign postcards and designate a patient or indulgent relative or friend to mail a couple to you each week or month—whichever works.

Autographed Vinyl  

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Are you and your spouse music enthusiasts? If you are, you should scour garage sales and find old albums which you can use for your guest book. Afterward, you have a unique piece of wall décor that provokes romantic feelings and memories every time you look at it.

Guided Questions  

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If you wish to have your guests have a more active role in your new life together as a couple, give them a set of guided questions and then ask them to name your first pet, where you should live, etc.    

Holiday Décor  

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Incorporate feelings of sentimentality in your annual holiday decoration by utilizing holiday decors as an alternative way to have your wedding guests dedicate messages to you. Provide your guests with paint markers where they can sign on Christmas balls and write messages for you.  

Date Night Inspiration

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Save yourself the overwhelming confusion on what to do on date nights by having your wedding guests come up with suggestions for you. Collect a jar of date night ideas from your guests by having them signpost it and collecting it inside a mason jar.  

Nostalgic Notes  

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If you are looking for a casual and humorous way to look back on your wedding day, provide your guests with a Mad Libs-style questionnaire, collect them after the wedding and turn them into a book, it is a fun way to reminisce about your big day and would make for an excellent coffee table book.  

Wedding Hanging Decors  

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One of the predicted wedding trends for the year 2019 is hanging decors. While they have certainly been around for quite a while, hanging wedding decors give your wedding day extra drama and flair by pulling the eyes of your wedding guests up and skyward.  Here are some excellent ideas you can use:

Flowers  

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You can never go wrong with flowers. Apart from giving your wedding venue a whimsical ambiance, hanging flowers make for an excellent floral backdrop which you and your guests can use for photos.  

Paper Lanterns  

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If you wish to go with a rustic theme for your wedding, then incorporate paper lanterns in your reception area. They make for excellent alternative lighting options and would double as an accented décor.

Terrariums  

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Give your wedding venue a sophisticated look by utilizing terrariums as hanging décor. While they might be unconventional, they have proven to be versatile. You can hang them as they are with only a simple candle inside or choose to fill them with flowers or even layers of rock and stone. Apart from being a classy wedding décor option, it provides for limitless customization choices.  

Crystal Garland  

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For a more dramatic flair and classic ambiance, utilize crystal garlands as hanging wedding décor in your wedding venue. With the myriad of application techniques, you can do, the sparkling strands of gems and add to any of your décor pieces that need a little sparkle and glimmer.  

Tissue Pompoms  

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Are you looking for wedding décor that is both beautiful and inexpensive? Then look no further than tissue pompoms! Tissue pompoms go bold and big in style without breaking the bank.

Ribbons  

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While ribbons are often added as accents to bags or baskets, they can be the perfect décor to add personality to your wedding venue. As it comes in a variety of colors, you can choose that match your theme correctly.  

Feathers  

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For a unique look that works seamlessly outdoors then try hanging feathers. Feathers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors insomuch that they match almost every wedding theme there is.  

Flower Balls  

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Break away from conventional wedding hanging decors by opting to bunch your flowers together to form into a ball. Instead of making the table centerpieces, choose to hang them instead.

Lanterns  

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Take your wedding decors to a whole new level by choosing to hang your lanterns instead of making them as centerpieces and table decors. Apart from creating a stunning look, it also provides additional illumination to your venue—particularly if you are celebrating outdoors.  

Birdcages  

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Hanging birdcages is an excellent way to inject a bit of flamboyance to your wedding event. As one of the more popular choices for wedding decors, birdcages come in almost every size and color. Even hanging just a few by your reception’s entrance would already give it enough sophistication and a dash of panache.   

String Lights  

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String lights have come a long way from being regarded as favorite holiday décor. Today, it has been utilized as hanging and overhead decors to give wedding venues a rustic feel as well as a warm and inviting glow.

Mason Jars  

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For a necessary condiment or beverage container, mason jars can be incredibly versatile insomuch that they can even be used as wedding decors. With this in mind, they can also be utilized as hanging décor to serve as makeshift chandeliers or even from chairs. Customize them to your theme and fill them up with flowers, lights, candles and so much more.  

Banners

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Banners make for excellent additions in weddings with rustic themes. Apart from conveying sweet messages and displaying announcements, they would look great strewn above tables.

Doilies  

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While they might be reminiscent of your old grandma’s décor in the living room, doilies make for excellent hanging décor additions in your wedding venue. Apart from giving your reception a classic touch, they can be utilized to enhance a country-side themed wedding.  

Wedding Décor Centerpiece Ideas

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Opt for something a little different than merely plopping floral bouquets on your tables. After all, what makes a wedding venue beautiful is the little touches and eye-catching details that would ultimately culminate in a tastefully thought-of aesthetic. So, instead of simply letting the wedding catering staff apply their own decors, incorporate some of your own. Here are some of the alternative wedding centerpiece ideas you can utilize for your wedding reception:  

Sprawling Centerpieces

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To make more of an impact, go big with your table centerpieces by utilizing sprawling and magnificent decors. Adorn your tables with cascading floral centerpieces such as big floral arrangements and the like.  

Orange Themed Centerpiece  

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If you have autumn or fall for a wedding theme, then you might want to incorporate more orange tones to your wedding venue. To do this, arrange rows of oranges at the center of a table and insert occasional flowers here and there. Apart from adding a pop of color, this is one centerpiece which your guests can eat.  

Desert-Inspired Centerpieces  

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Take a cue from beautiful sunsets and use them as inspiration for your desert-themed wedding. Mix verdant foliage with tea lights to dress up your tables and add the occasional chunk of wood as an accent.  

Bouncy Ball Centerpiece  

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Couples who are young at heart will love this unique centerpiece. Fill a vase with bouncy balls to make for a more colorful and playful décor.

Lego Bowl Centerpiece

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For a genuinely unique yet eye-catching centerpiece, fill a bowl with Lego and stick in a sweet chalkboard sign.  

Fishbowls  

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Give your centerpieces a bit more life by adding something that is alive. Buy a bunch of goldfish from your local pet store and display them in a circular bowl with pebbles to match your décor. To ensure that you remain environment-friendly, be sure to release the fish to the sea after your wedding.  

Rainbow Centerpieces  

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For rainbow-themed weddings, utilize colorful centerpieces by adding flowers of every imaginable color. However, to ensure that the centerpiece gets the attention it deserves to ensure that it is only decorated at the head of the table and the rest of the decors should remain monochrome.  

Grass Table Runner  

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Who says that the only plant life you can use at your weddings will be flowers? Add some grass to your tables and use it as a runner to add drama to your meals.  

Upside Down Wine Glasses  

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Reinvent your centerpieces by turning traditional ideas such as flipping wine glass centerpieces upside down. To make it pop, place flowers, marbles or other decors underneath the cup.

Glittery Wine Bottles

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Recycle wine bottles and turn them into beautiful wedding table centerpieces by covering them in ombre glitter. Combine them with flowers and other plant life for maximum effect.

Painted Logs  

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Rustic and contemporary vibe can be achieved by painting the ends of your logs in bright hues. Stack them up in the center of your table to serve as the main centerpiece.

Vintage Books  

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Couples who love to read or have a dedicated library at home can put their books to good use by utilizing them as centerpieces. Showcase some of the darlings in your collection by putting them up for display as a table centerpiece. Who knows? It might serve as excellent conversation starters among your guests.

Game boards

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Showcase your fun-loving side by utilizing game boards as centerpieces. Scrabble seems to be most apt for weddings as it allows you to spell out little messages for your guests to see.

While your wedding decorations do not have to cost you a lot, they do have to be personal and unique to you. More importantly, they should reflect your creative side as well as your uniqueness as a couple. With the myriad of wedding décor ideas above, you should be able to choose one that would suit the kind of wedding you wish to have.      

 

Philippine Wedding Song Ideas 2019

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Without a doubt, music plays a pivotal role in weddings.

While a wedding invitation would be the prelude to your event, it is actually your music that provides the ambiance. In a momentous social event, weddings often associate with big reunions wherein family members, relatives and friends from even far-flung areas would come back to witness the joyful union of bride and groom. As it is an event marked with much importance, it would be clear why affianced couples would want to create the best mood and ambiance for their wedding guests and ensure that every single one of their guests would be having a grand time. With that, music comes in and plays an imperative role. The music and wedding songs played in the various segments of your wedding ceremony has a significant role in creating a mood, dictating the ambiance and assuring a pleasant and joyful background for the wedding.

Apart from that, the music you choose helps in lightening up the atmosphere and keeps your guests entertained. More importantly, it can give your wedding guests a subtle nod and hint at the kind songs and genres you and your spouse find yourselves listening and gravitating. In this regard, the music and songs you choose for your wedding would also give your guests an insight as to who you and your spouse are as a couple. However, with a myriad of romantic and love songs at a couple’s disposal, it is understandable why some couples would meet the endeavor of choosing songs with much difficulty.

After all, with the sheer number of options they have, it is quite easy to be overwhelmed. With this in mind, this article has collected a set of useful tips to help couples select the perfect songs followed by a suggestion of wedding songs for the various parts of their wedding ceremony.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING SONGS

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Choosing your wedding songs might seem like a daunting task. After all, you want to create the perfect ambiance, and you cannot do this without the aid of an expertly curated playlist. Your options might be limitless, but you can start by listing down the songs you do like. Once you come up with a list of songs, you can then refine and condense it to suit the various segments of your wedding ceremony aptly. Here are the multiple steps to take in choosing your music:

Getting Started

One of the initial things to consider when it comes to curating a playlist for your wedding is to decide whether you are hiring a band or a DJ (or both if you can afford it). Naturally, cost and expenses will be a pivotal factor in helping you decide. However, beyond estimating how much you are going to fork up for the service, there are other important points you need to consider. These points include knowing what tone you want to set and what kind of theme you have in mind (traditional, unique or alternative). Once you have an idea of what you want, choosing between a DJ and a band will be so much easier.

Picking Key Wedding Songs

Throughout the day, there will be moments you want to highlight. You can achieve this with the appropriate music that is both fitting for the mood. To ensure underscored moments are with the right music, work with your DJ or band beforehand.

Pre-ceremony music

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Your pre-ceremony music helps set the tone for your wedding and played while your guests are arriving and trying to find their seats. Choose songs that are low-key but upbeat. More often than not, music without lyrics works perfectly for this segment.

Processional

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It is the music played the moment your wedding party is about to enter. Ideally, you want to send them down the aisle in style. Choose an upbeat song that gives their entrance more of an impact. However, be sure that the music you choose would not make your entry anti-climactic.

Bridal Entrance

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Typically, a bride’s wedding march is one that should capture and captivate the people in the room. After all, you want to have everyone’s eyes on you as you make your way down the aisle. Choose an instrumental version of a song that has a poignant meaning to you.

Cocktail Hour

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While waiting for you to arrive at your reception venue, your wedding guests would be enjoying cocktails. Dictate the vibe and mood by choosing appropriate music for it. Of course, you want them to anticipate your arrival so pick a song that is upbeat but not enough to have people dancing just yet.

Reception Entrance

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More often than not, your wedding entourage would also make their entrance to your reception hall. In this regard, you can ask them for the song they wish to have played the moment they enter. Alternatively, you can choose a set of preselected songs that have a special meaning to you and the members of your bridal entourage.

First Dance

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Ideally, this is where you and your spouse should play your song. Unfortunately, identifying what this is can be somewhat difficult unless you and your spouse already know what your song is. If you do not, you can start by thinking the kind of dance you want to have (intimate, fun, silly or choreographed) and ask what kind of reaction you want to evoke from your guests (surprise or sentimentality). From there, choosing your first dance song would be so much easier.

Dinner Music

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Similar to the cocktail hour, you can give the band or your DJ a heads up as to the kind of mood and vibe you wish to create and have them choose the songs to play. Alternatively, you can have a set of preselected music for which they can play. Remember, dinner time is where mingling and conversation usually happens, so keep things mellow.

THE TOP SONGS PLAYED IN FILIPINO WEDDINGS

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Filipinos are known to be big music lovers. Majority of them have a particular partiality for love and romantic songs which is evidenced by the curated playlist every Filipino wedding would seemingly play. Sure, these ballads of love and romantic melodies might be apt considering the occasion, but they do have a reputation of being overused and overplayed in weddings over and over again.

In any case, here are the top 10 songs that have become synonymous with Filipino weddings throughout the years insomuch that they have become a standard staple in wedding celebrations across the country. With that considered, you should tread carefully and decide for yourself whether any of the songs below are worthy of being played during your wedding day.

The Way You Look Tonight

Revived and made famous by Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble, the song became a Filipino wedding staple when included in two wedding-themed movies namely Father of the Bride (1991) and My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997).

Ngayon at Kailanman

A local entry in this list, Ngayon at Kailanman first performed by Basil Valdez and revived by Sharon Cuneta. The song’s straightforward message of deep love and affection has resonated with many Filipino couples which makes it a standard tune in most local weddings.

We’ve Only Just Begun

Released by The Carpenters in the year 1970, the song was intended for a commercial featuring a newlywed couple driving into the sunset. However, the message of starting a new life together is not lost on Filipinos as this song remains to be a famous wedding anthem for most Filipino weddings.

Pangako

The song title itself translates to the word promise which happens to be a message most Filipino couples find themselves gravitating to when it comes to their love. For this reason, the song remains to be a popular choice when it comes to creating a wedding playlist.

Sanaý Wala Nang Wakas

This local song has strong undertones and messages of deep undying and unwavering love which makes it a popular choice for a wedding ballad. However, the song is best rendered and performed by a choir if used for a wedding.

All My Life

Although this song never attained worldwide popularity and did not do so well in the US Billboard charts, the song’s message made a mark on Filipinos. It has won the hearts of many Filipino couples and has since then become one of the most-played love songs at a Filipino wedding.

I Finally Found Someone

As an original soundtrack for a romantic movie, it would be understandable why the song would make its way to weddings. However, what captured the Filipinos hearts is how the song was incorporated in the movie and its lyrics.

The Gift

Although intended as a holiday track, this favorite wedding song became such a hit with the Filipinos after Jim Brickman gave his rendition of the song together with Martina Mcbride.

Forevermore

Performed by an iconic local band, the song’s simple melody has made its way to the hearts of Filipinos. With the well-crafted lyrics complemented by the accompaniment of piano and guitar, the song became a known theme song for most Filipinos.

Ikaw

Similarly used in a local movie with the same title, this is one of the songs with a message most Filipinos find themselves resonating. Typically used as a bridal march, the song has since then worked its way to many Filipino weddings.

Wedding Entrance Songs

Fun Wedding Entrance Songs

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Take a break from the conventional and choose a song that best defines and highlights the fun element of your relationship. Instead of the sappy love songs, pick something a little more upbeat and gets you in the mood to celebrate.

Raise Your Glass by P!nk

This song is perfect entrance track for couples who wish to be toasted to as they make their way to the reception hall as a newlywed couple.

Feel So Close by Calvin Harris

Couples who have a proclivity for EDM tracks will think this song apt as background music for their entrance.

Shut Up and Dance by Walk the Moon

If you and your spouse are big on breaking out some moves, then you will love dancing to the beat of your entrance march with this track.

Crazy in Love

If you genuinely want to make a statement about how in love you are with each other, channel your inner Beyoncé and break into a dance the moment you make your entrance to the room. Make it complete by choosing one of her most famous and beloved tracks.

Funny Wedding Entrance Songs

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Give your guests an insider’s view of the less serious aspects in your relationship such as the sense of humor you and your spouse possess. If you wish to lighten up the mood, get your party off to a great start with a funny wedding reception entrance song.

All I Do Is Win by DJ Khaled

Technically, both you and your spouse won by marrying each other on that day which makes this song humorous and apt at the same time.

Dear Future Husband by Megan Trainor

For brides who wish to give their husbands a subtle hint then this song is the perfect song to make your entrance as a newlywed couple.

Popular Wedding Entrance Songs

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These tracks are beloved and popular. Although some of them are more contemporary than the rest, these tracks are known by all and are fitting for the moment. More importantly, it can get your wedding guests to sing and dance along to the words as you make your grand entrance.

Forever by Chris Brown

While this song is rather upbeat for a track that filled with so much emotion, Forever by Chris Brown is the best song for your entrance to if you wish to mark your wedding as the beginning of eternity.

Marry You by Bruno Mars

Typical and conventional but sweet, this track sets the tone for a delightful evening ahead.

Wedding Ceremony Songs (For Walking In and Walking Out)

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Commonly known as the processional song, the hymns you and your party will walk down the aisle to should not only set the tone for your event but should also hold deep meaning to you. Ideally, you should choose one song for everyone while you have your separate song for your grand entrance. Here are some of the traditional choices for both walking in and walking out of the aisle.

Marchial Wedding Ceremony Songs

Bridal Chorus, Wagner

More commonly known as Here Comes the Bride, Wagner’s Bridal Chorus is a classic wedding staple that remains popular until today. This song is one of the go-to choices for a majority of prospective brides.

Canon in D, Pachelbel

Another common choice among brides, Canon in D by Pachelbel is a gorgeous piece of music beautifully played by a traditional quartet. If a classic entrance is what you are aiming for, you will never go wrong with this piece.

A Thousand Years, The Piano Guys

Initially performed by Christina Perri, A Thousand Years is a popular choice for wedding entrances once couples realized how beautiful its instrumentals are. Albeit more modern and contemporary than the rest of the entries in this list, it is the perfect choice for couples who cannot decide between a classic instrumental or more modern love song with vocals.

Marry Me, Train

If you have a thing for modern songs but are unsure as to how to proceed or which song to choose, Marry Me by Train makes the perfect choice for you. The melody and lyrics are both beautiful. More importantly, the tempo is just right for a processional.

Recessional Wedding Ceremony Songs

Wedding March, Mendelssohn

A conventional and traditional choice for the wedding recessional, Mendelssohn’s Wedding March is a grand organ piece that capitalizes on high drama.

First Day of My Life, Bright Eyes

If you have a penchant for the acoustics, then this song is an excellent choice for you. Apart from being an unconventional alternative, it is also a unique way to start the first day of your married life.

Arrival of the Queen Sheba, Handel

While initially intended to signify one’s arrival, it works better as a recessional. This classical piece is high in tempo and is a joyful beat to exit.

Wedding First Dance Song Ideas

Image source

Undoubtedly, picking out the first song to dance to will be met with much difficulty unless you and your partner have already figured out on a song beforehand. Typically, your first dance should be to the song that defines you as a couple. However, if you have not figured out what that is yet, here are some ideas.

Happy by Pharell

Happy by Pharell might be a little too upbeat for most couples, it is a beautiful song to start your journey as a couple. After all, your wedding day should be the happiest day of your life so you might as well choose a song that best defines it.

I’m Gonna Make You My Wife by Whispers

For brides who want something a little more fitting and romantic, this song by Whispers is an incredibly apt tune to have your first dance. It is especially perfect for couples who want a song that is heavy on emotions and carries a poignant message.

Lucky by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat

For couples who are feeling lucky, they married their best friend, this song by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat is a beautiful song with perfect lyrics for your first dance.

Spend My Life With You by Tamia and Eric Benet

Couples who wish to dance to underrated songs with deep meanings should choose this track for their first dance. The song wonderfully conveys the essence of love and defines the moment you know you have found the one.

Better Together by Jack Johnson

A little under the radar but a favorite of many couples, this song by Jack Johnson is the perfect melody to dance to if you are a couple who loves playful acoustic song.

As music sets the tone for your wedding event, keep in mind to choose the most appropriate ones that stir the right emotions and convey a message of love and harmony to your guests. Ensure that the songs you have picked out are the perfect sit for the ceremony you have in mind and have planned.

Getting Over the Post-Wedding Blues

For a couple of months to almost a year, you have been coordinating and planning for your wedding. You were able to pull off your most awaited celebration! You and your partner got the best catering services, had your wedding in a picturesque venue, hired an excellent photographer and videographers, and wonderfully celebrated this momentous event with your relatives and friends.

This probably explains why it is hard for one to get over the hype of wedding and so as with honeymoon. You worked hard for it, and maybe it’s in your dreams for a weeks or months. Not kidding because some just really experience that. So what can you do to get over these post-wedding blues?

Here is some handful of tips:

Check out your wedding photos and videos

Seeing your wedding photos and videos may trigger you to miss it even more. However, others are more satisfied whenever they see something that relieves their memories. You might have seen these for thousands of times already, but the feeling you have never gets old. It makes you happy and instantly boosts your energy. You may see or observe new things in every picture or video.

Enjoy whatever you see in those photographs and videos. It probably makes you glad and proud that you were able to manage this event you won’t ever forget in your life.

Appreciate what has been

happy couple weddingMoving on from everything including breakups and weddings (so sad and happy moments) can be quite challenging. You remember every bit of what happened, and it makes you want to relieve it every single day. It can be a good thing if you keep on appreciating what has been.

Appreciating or being thankful for the past is different from wanting to get it back. Like what they say, you might miss something or someone, but it does not mean that you want to have it again. Assure yourself that whatever you’re feeling right now is fine. Appreciate and be happy for a beautiful wedding and honeymoon.

Declutter your room

One good avenue to release your energy is by cleaning and decluttering your room. Collect all the things you find unnecessary to keep, and you believe it would be better if other people can use it. Instead of stressing over your post-wedding blues or getting sad over something, you can do something more productive.

Do not get rid of the things that are memorable and meaningful to you. If it makes your rainy day brighter and lighter, keep it. All of us need a thing or two that helps ourselves in a unique way.

Engage yourself in sports

If you have been sporty before, it is a good time to get back on track. You may be very preoccupied with the pre-wedding and honeymoon preparations as well as settling after the events that took place. On the other hand, if you haven’t had any sports, it is now that you should try one.

It would be better if you can do some sports with your spouse or at least with a friend. But if not, there are sports that you can do on your own like tennis (walling), swimming, boxing, karate and other self-defense crafts.

Exercise

Not all people have the energy and will to engage themselves in sports that is why others prefer to hit the gym. It is also as good as the previous tip since you can be physically active and involved. If you do not have the resources to go to a gym, you may try creating or following a routine at home.

Going for a short jog every day may help you replenish your thoughts and ideas about life in general. Sounds deep, eh? But seriously, getting your body move helps your mind to breathe as well.

Have more time with your pets

bonding with petsFor sure, you were busy for the past few weeks or months to the point that you are missing some things with your beloved pets. You can now make more time for your pets! Walk them around the village or town, jog with them or play with them at home. They probably miss you a lot.

It can be a fun thing to do to dress them up (make sure they are comfortable with whatever you are going to make them wear), picture them in different pleasing places, eat or dine out with them. In short, make every moment count. You have your friends, family, workmates and your pets only have you.

Communicate with good old friends

Having a quick chat or coffee with your certified friends for life will lift your spirit up. Get to know what is the latest with their lives, listen to their stories and share yours. This sounds great and all but finding the right time to meet together is also challenging.

But hey, after you and your colleagues successfully settled over a good schedule, your meeting will be memorable and fun just like as before.

Bond with your partner

bonding with partnerHaving post-wedding blues? One of the best ways for you to kick this feeling off is do something together with your spouse. There are a lot of things you can do together. Watch movies, clean the house (yes, even cleaning the house), bond with your pets, look after your kids or other babies of your relatives, go to amusement parks, and more.

Whatever life may bring to the two of you, remember that you have each other. The situation may not be the same as when you were not living together because there are many things you are thinking of – bills, work, family, and planning. From time to time, it would be nice if you some sort of “runaway” from your responsibilities (but not neglecting them, okay) and enjoy the company of each other.

Write or read something that interests you

Feeding your mind with useful information will be a good avenue to redirect your thoughts. Reread your favorite book or write stories and poems. Give it to your relatives and closest friends. Keeping your mind busy or diverting those thoughts and energy can be done through the ones mentioned.

Your mind is indeed powerful. But believe that you, as a person, are more powerful and in control. Besides, learning does not stop, right? Why not try studying a new language and culture that interests you? It will be challenging and exciting!

Listen to music or practice playing an instrument

Similar to engaging yourself in sports or physical activity, another way to learn do something fun, and a challenge has something to do with music. Music is exceptional that it does not just go thru our ears but also to our hearts. It soothes and relaxes us.

Moreover, you can also try playing an instrument or two. Why not try exploring the beauty of the guitar, piano, violin, bass, trumpet, and whatnot? Entertain and amuse yourself, partner and friends with your new found talent in music.

Find a new hobby

In general, what can help you with getting over these post-wedding blues is by finding a new hobby. Doing something entertaining and productive in your spare time will help you divert your energy and attention. Instead of worrying and stressing yourself over a matter that has been already all and done, be more productive. We all need that go-to activity that helps us eases our stress.

If you have always been interested in arts and crafts, try starting a simple yet amazing scrapbook. You can also try to explore your camera and roam around the beautiful places around you. Invite your spouse or closest friends to help you out with your new hobby. Happiness is more fun when shared, right?

Visit new places

travelingI can go on any day to say that traveling is probably one of the best ways for one to have fun and relax. Unfortunately, not everybody is gifted with the luxury of time and resources to make all plans come true. And that is where your will and gut come into play. In Tagalog, “pag gusto may paraan, pag ayaw maraming dahilan.”

Going back, make some time and extra effort to visit new places. The world is vast for you to explore and experience. Don’t settle with whatever you know now. Continue traveling and knowing other cultures, places, and more things that will help you feed your soul and mind. It will definitely go a long way. Imagine you can share tons of stories and learnings to your future kids and grandkids.

 

Hopefully, you were able to get at least one or two tips that you believe can help you soothe your mind with all the things that are running thru your head. For sure you miss the feeling that you have to the wedding and the head over heels level of happiness on your honeymoon. Again, there is nothing wrong or bad about that. It is normal. But I guess we can agree that we do not want to have that sad and gloomy feeling all along.

Moving forward is important in our lives. So get your head up and say hello to a brand new day!

Photo credits to their rightful owners

What Guests Can Do Between Ceremony and the Reception

It’s become normal that the newlyweds and entourage take time after the ceremony to get their photos and videos taken, especially when you have a same edit video. But what are guests supposed to do while waiting for an hour or more for the reception to begin? Here are some ideas on how to keep your guests entertained while waiting:

Provide food refreshments right away.

If your ceremony and reception will be held in the same events venue, it will be more comfortable and economical for your guests to just stay put. Keeping them waiting (and making them hungry!) won’t make them pleasant guests. Bring out refreshments, such as finger food and drinks, and help your guests mingle by providing cocktail tables. If you’re holding your reception in a different venue (around a half hour’s drive is far away enough), some guests might opt to head elsewhere before going to the reception, but just in case, be ready withrefreshments and food nonetheless for the guests who will go straight to the venue.

Create a wedding “fair”.

Keep your guests busy by preparing interactive activities and games for them to participate in, even without you being present. Post a big “answer board” inside for your guests to fill out, and give them a question to answer, like “What’s your best piece of advice about marriage?” Get a fun Instagram game going by giving them your wedding hashtag, and the best photo gets a prize (perhaps an extra appliance you got from your wedding-registered gifts?). Request for your photographer and your videographer to have a part of their teams ready at the reception to take photos of your guests as well. Have your photo booth or video booth up and running as soon as your guests arrive. Have the option to serve the refreshments and hor d’oeuvres while they’re seated, or have portions of the buffet ready and open for your guests to help themselves.

Hire professional entertainers.

When in doubt about how to keep your guests entertained, hire the professionals! If you’ll have a band or DJ, have them play a few sets to get them to the dance floor. Bring in a videoke machine, because really, no Pinoy will pass up the opportunity to sing, no matter the occasion. Consider hiring a magician to keep the kids (and the adults, even if they won’t admit it!) mesmerized. Give your photo booth a little twist by getting a caricaturist instead to draw portraits for your guests.

Open up a “waiting area”.

If the gap between the ceremony and the reception is too long (around 2 hours or more), keeping your guests busy with activities might not just cut it—they might want a place to rest. Create a place where your guests can get some rest and relaxation. Book a separate hotel room or venue for your own “mini-spa”, filled with massage therapists who can give your guests head and back massages, nail technicians for mani pedis, and plenty of chairs and comfortable sofas to relax in. If you want to save yourself time, money, and effort, think of booking a small spa establishment, and the first 50 or 100 guests can avail of selected services, free of charge.

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Sources: imgur / graphicstockgettyimages / giphy

Create Your Wedding Guest List

Creating your guest list is one of the first things you and your fiancée need to do right away. Your suppliers, particularly your caterer, and the size of your venues, greatly depend on the number of guests. As much as you wish to invite the whole world to your celebration, your budget will thank you if you downsize it a bit. Who do you invite?

Make your wish list

This is the fun part! List down as many names as you want—down to that best friend from Kindergarten! Have your fiancée do the same. Ask for a list from your parents and your future in-laws as well, then put all these lists together. Rather than removing duplicates, take note of the people who referred her at the side of their name.

Grow your list

Go through each name and do a little research on each. Are they married or coupled up? Add a plus one to their name. Do they have kids, and do they have yayas? Include all of them in the list. Are there workmates on the list? You have to invite your entire team, not just a select few. That “team” rule applies to barkadas as well.

Pick your non-negotiables

Imagine that you can only invite ten people to your secret wedding. Who would those people be? These people will comprise your non-negotiable list. This list will probably include mostly family members, and only the closest of friends. Once you’re done with the list, no names can be added or removed in the list, so don’t take this list lightly!

Take note of the guests you both know

Your wedding isn’t the place to meet people for the first time, or a mini reunion of people you haven’t seen in over a decade. Choose people with people who were important enough to be part of your life as a couple, and people you both know and have kept constantly in touch.

Apply the 10-year rule

Your wedding will be completely documented, from hundreds of photos to choose from, to countless videos. Making your wedding as timeless as possible is a great option to go with, and that goes with your guests. Ask yourself: Is this person someone you would like to see in the next 10 years? That’s easy enough to say yes to when they’re family, but not so easy when it’s casual acquaintances. This will be an easy way to remove the guests you were feeling lukewarm over.

Remove the “fat”

Remember when you were starting the list, with each guest had plus one, or a plus family and yayas? Now’s the time to decide if you want an “adults only” wedding, a strict rule of no yayas allowed, or plus ones for couples you both personally know, or if you’ll extend the plus one courtesy to all your guests.

Divide your current number of guests in half

This is the toughest but final test that your list will go through. Pretend that your budget can only allow half of your guest list. Are there names that you can still afford to take out? You can choose to remove those names all together, or to make it compromise of the “List B”.

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Sources: imgur / graphicstockgettyimages / giphy

The Social Media Rules at Weddings

There’s a whole new way of documenting your wedding, and it’s through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, your wedding website… the possibilities are endless! How do you control what gets published online for your wedding?

Come up with your hashtag early on.

Most couples that want a classic, timeless wedding don’t like hashtags, since it makes the wedding seem too trendy. If you’re like one of those couples, think about it this way: It’s the easiest way to collate all the photos, posts, and tweets found online of your wedding, so embrace the trend. You can choose something simple, like putting your names together, plus your wedding date (example: #MayJose03232013, rather than #youareMAYforeverloveJOSE)

Post your hashtag in every nook and cranny possible.

If it’s a bit too crass for your taste to include the hashtag in your wedding invitation, post it near the entrance of your reception venue, or on your guests’ tables. Even have your host announce it a couple of times! The more that your hashtag is out there, the more guests will be able to tag their posts and tweets properly.

Have a gadget-free ceremony.

There have been far too many weddings wherein all the bride sees when she walks down the aisle are a sea of cellphones and tablets, not happy, teary-eyed faces. Decide as a couple to have a gadget-free ceremony. Have it announced before the ceremony begins, and include the announcement in the program. If you’re worried that there will be less photos to capture the different moments (or your relatives will throw a fit that your precious cousin who’s a flower girl won’t be photographed), be assured that the photographers and videographers you hired are there to give you peace of mind when it comes to documenting every little detail of your day.

Delete any unflattering or uncomfortable photos.

A few days after your wedding, when you finally find the time to go through all the photos and posts online, you’ll definitely find some photos taken of you or your fiancée in an angle that makes you look weird, or some posts that might be offensive to your family or relatives. If there are some posts or photos that aren’t to your liking, don’t be afraid to ask your guest (or supplier) to remove it. There’s no need for you to demand that they do it, but wording it in such a way that they don’t feel like you’re ordering them to do it, like “Hey! I saw the photos of our wedding in your feed, I love them! You’ve really got an eye for these things. Hey would it be okay though if we remove the one where I have a double chin? It looks like I ate too much in the buffet, haha!” will do the trick.

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Image Sources: graphicstock.com and imgur.com

Wedding Trends for 2017

Wear pink.

White is always the obvious choice for wedding gowns, but the Summer 2017 bridal runways were overrun by another dominant color: pink. The most feminine of colors, you can choose to wear pink in its different shades, like in almost white and pink blush, to screaming hot pink. If you don’t want to go against the white tradition, think about mixing pink into your color theme with something more neutral or earth-toned.

Add more drama to your veils and trains.

Long, intricate veils and trains are making a stellar comeback, and it definitely adds flair to any wedding gown. To make it more comfortable for you to move around during the reception, make sure that your train is detachable, or not so heavy that you’ll be literally weighed down while walking.

Wear a cape.

A long, heavy cape isn’t practical in our tropical weather. So if you do choose to go with this trend, think of going for a caplet, or one that is made of light and breathable fabric. Your cape will be a lifesaver if your reception gets to be a little chilly.

Become boho.

Whether it’s influenced by Coachella or by the ongoing rustic décor we’ve been seeing these few years, going boho is something that some brides would like to do because of its relaxed, flowy vibe, which will hopefully translate into the whole feel of their wedding.

Be one with nature.

The rustic trend is still going strong, so you’ll still be seeing a lot of themes that revolve around lush greens, browns, chalkboards, mason jars and burlap. If you’re looking into glamming it up, gold is also an emerging trend for 2017, so feel free to mix some gold elements (like gold branches, gold flatware) into the rustic-ness of your theme.

Go back in time by going vintage.

For couples that like a more classic theme, going vintage is usually their choice. Think of the roaring, “The Great Gatsby” 20s or old Hollywood glamour of the 50s as jumping off points. If you wish to add a more nostalgic feel to your wedding, go vintage by pouring over your own parents’ wedding. Check out what elements you can get from their wedding that you can repeat in yours. You can even make it into a new tradition!

Choose teal and lemon.

The colors that are emerging as the most used upcoming weddings are teal and lemon. These colors are bright, cheery, and something that is best used if you’re having a summer wedding. Yellow might come off as informal when used as the dominant color, so you’re better off using teal as your dominant color, with just hints of yellow.

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Sources: Hillcreek gardens / photoshare.com / imagestock.com

How to Choose Your Wedding Entourage

Picking the members of your entourage will be easier if you figure out what roles they play during your big day. Here are the most common members:

 

Maid of Honor

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Helps the bride with wedding planning.
  • Head of the bridesmaids.
  • Spearheads the planning of the bridal shower.
  • Helps the bride get dressed and stay calm on the day of the wedding.
  • Makes a toast or speech at the wedding reception or at rehearsal dinner.

 

The best friend or closest female family member of the bride, the Maid of Honor helps out the bride with anything about the wedding. From planning the bridal shower to straightening out the bride’s wedding dress during the big day, the Maid of Honor is tasked to help relieve the stress from the bride. If you can’t choose just one, or want to have a “Man of Honor”, that’s also an option for brides to be.

Best Man

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Organize the bachelor party.
  • Ensure that the groom and groomsmen get to the wedding ceremony on time.
  • Serve as a witness to the marriage license signing.
  • Offer the first toast to the newlyweds at the wedding reception.

 

The same duties and responsibilities of the Maid of Honor fall on the Best Man, and the option to choose more than one or have a “Woman of Honor” is also accepted. Usually, the biggest task that a Best Man is given is to throw the bachelor party, and to keep an eye on the groom during the wedding day, making sure that he keeps calm and relaxed.

Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

Roles and Responsibilities: 

  • Assists the maid of honor/best man in carrying out their plans for the bachelor/bachelorette party.
  • Attend all pre-wedding events.
  • Assists the maid of honor/best man throughout the wedding day.

 

The first people who come to mind when it comes to choosing them as your bridesmaids and groomsmen are your closest friends. In the strict sense, they’re there for more than keeping the color theme going—they’re supposed to help the Maid of Honor and Best Man in any wedding duties that you’ll entrust to them. The number of bridesmaids and groomsmen depend on you (and your budget!), but the number of bridesmaids should be equal to the number of groomsmen, and vice versa.

Flower Girls

Roles and Responsibilities: 

  • Get ready together with the bridesmaids
  • Walks the aisle preceding the bride
  • Scatters rose petals before the bride’s big entrance

 

These little girls have the most direct to the point role in your wedding: to shower flower petals on your wedding aisle. Sometimes thought to be optional, flower girls are more of a want rather than a necessary addition to your entourage, especially if you have pamangkins or friends with little ones wishing to take on the role.

Ring Bearer, Coin Bearer, Bible Bearer

Roles and Responsibilities: 

  • Carry rings, bible, coin all the way to the altar during the march.

 

These roles are usually given to children, but sometimes adults, even pets, take on these roles! If you’re having your ceremony in a church, it’s best to check the age requirements with them first. Remember that the items that they’ll be carrying, even if symbolic, are important to your ceremony, so it’s best to entrust it to people who can carry on the task.

Primary Sponsors

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Be official witnesses to the wedding ceremony itself.
  • Provide support, guidance and wisdom throughout the course of the couple’s wedded life.

 

In Filipino culture, ninongs and ninangs are either kumares or kumpares of your parents and in-laws, or people who have reached a certain status in your community—politicians are a popular choice. The list of principal sponsors oftentimes become so long, it takes up more than half of the invitation! The main purpose for ninongs and ninangs, besides signing as witnesses in the marriage contract, is to provide support to you and your future husband during your wedding life. Find couples who you admire; those who have led a married life that’s not necessarily without challenges or problems, but those who you can emulate when growing old together. A strong, compassionate, kind couple who are examples of how to weather the ups and downs of married life would make the perfect principal sponsors.

Secondary Sponsors

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Candle sponsors light the candles that will symbolize the Light of Christ in the couple’s union.
  • Veil sponsors will carry the wedding veil that symbolizes the couple as one
  • Cord sponsors will carry the wedding cord that symbolizes everlasting fidelity/ couples bond with one another.

 

One pair each are assigned to become candle sponsors, veil sponsors, and cord sponsors. Oftentimes these are friends, family, or relatives who weren’t included in the previous slots of the entourage. While symbolic gestures once again, these are important slots to fill, and they have real roles to do. These roles must not be entrusted to anyone from your leftover batch of friends.

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Sources: imgur.com / photoshare.com / imagestock.com

Common Wedding Guest Mistakes, Solved!

No matter how long or short your guest list is, there will always be a guest (or 20!) who will make you feel like your big day is more like a burden rather than a blessing. Here’s how to handle the unruly wedding guests who you will encounter:

Mistake #1: Not sending in their RSVP

There are different reasons to why Filipinos aren’t fond of sending in their RSVP. But the main reasons are either they’re too busy, or they don’t know that it’s important. To avoid any guests who weren’t included in the RSVP list, include a deadline in the invitation as to when you should receive your guests’ RSVP, and have your wedding planner call the guests who haven’t sent in their RSVPa week before the deadline to confirm their attendance.

Mistake #2: Having a plus 5 instead of 1.

You went through all that trouble to cut down your guest list so that you can cut down on costs, but then a guest you haven’t heard from in years has asked if you can bring her whole family of five—plus yayas for each child. How do you turn down the request? Usually, a simple phone call explaining that you can’t accommodate extra heads will do the trick.

Mistake #3: Getting in touch with the bride or groom on their wedding day.

Should your guests have a question about the wedding, especially those who belong to the wedding entourage, you and your fiancée may accommodate it a few weeks before the wedding. But for any questions to be sent to you or your fiancée on the day itself, forward the query to be answered by your wedding coordinator, or a trusted family member. You can even hand your actual mobile phone, so that you won’t need to be bothered by it and just enjoy the day.

Mistake #4: Seeing mobile devices rather than faces as you walk down the aisle.

You’ve seen the photos and perhaps have done it yourself: Capturing the entourage or the bride as it happens on your mobile device has become the norm. But then again, for how long do you usually keep the videos or photos? It often gets deleted right after you post it on social media, and removed from your mobile device in a few days. Wouldn’t you rather see your guests’ faces as you walk down the aisle, rather than their phones or tablets? Consider applying a “no mobile devices” policy during the ceremony, and leave the capturing of the memories to the professionals you hired.

Mistake #5: Getting complaints about the ceremony, reception, food, theme… everything about your big day.

It’s strange, but some people think that they’re “helping” by giving you their two cents worth about how the ceremony area was too hot and crowded, the soup was tepid, or the photo booth attendants were a tad rude to them. What is there to do? Let the complaints slide. Come the wedding day, there’s nothing you can do about your suppliers, if ever those are true, and there’s nothing you can do about your guests who chose to bring those complaints to you. Don’t let these tiny details ruin what your wedding day is all about—a celebration of your love for one another.

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Sources: imgur.com