Bride Diary: Here’s How We Transformed Home into Our Dream Wedding Venue!

“The theme for today is resilience and perseverance, and it shows by the simple fact that this wedding was able to push through.” These were the lines my husband opened his wedding vows with, and no truer words have been spoken. We all know it is no easy feat to plan a wedding, even more so amidst a pandemic, so when the big day finally arrived, we were just floored with gratitude that we made it this far! Plans and expectations were changed up to the last minute, but everything worked out in the end—we were married and surrounded by the love and support our closest family and friends.

From over 500 guests in a grand ballroom, to only a fraction in my new parents’ backyard, our wedding was made even more special because it was held at place where many of our fondest memories were made. Hosting weddings at home are sure to be a popular choice for sentimental and safety reasons, but there are also a few things that need to be considered during the planning. To paint a clearer picture of what to expect when planning weddings at home, we are happy to share our experience as well as the photos by MangoRed Studios and Ian Santillan. Cheers to making wedding dreams a reality!

[LAYOUT 1 of 5 - Consider the size available and divide up the space.]

Unlike with typical event venues, home does not come with designated areas for arrivals and cocktails, reception dinner, catering crew, hair and make-up, and so on. It’s important to plan the layout in such a way that the flow of service and of guests will be smooth and steady throughout the wedding. Communicate the final floor plan with all suppliers and check if the designated areas’ electrical capacities can handle their requirements for the event.

[LAYOUT 2 of 5 - Enhance what's existing, then decorate to bring the dream to life.]

The garden was already beautiful with lush greenery, so we wanted to showcase its natural charm should the rain have cleared up. We put our trust in Gideon Hermosa for the flowers and décor, so our guests and suppliers were in for a treat as they feasted their eyes on the enchanting set-up that awaited past the entryway of fairy lights. He paired the romance of drapery and delicate flowers with warm lighting encompassing the space. It was truly the wedding reception we’ve always dreamed of!

[LAYOUT 3 of 5 - Some things are meant to be borrowed.] 

To accommodate our plans, tables and chairs, cooking equipment, and lights and sounds systems were rented for the evening. It would be easier and more practical to use what was already existing, but our suppliers carefully explained the benefits of availing of rentals. Rentals were professionally sanitized before the event and we didn’t have to worry about the logistics of transporting them.

 

[LAYOUT 4 of 5 - Have a back-up plan for inclement weather.]

We had to make some changes since the two days leading up to the wedding were filled with strong wind and rain. Thankfully, our resilient team of suppliers were up to the challenge! They added tents and flooring so that our guests would be protected from the rain from their vehicle up to their table. The food and beverage service flow was also adjusted to ensure quality of the sumptuous dinner.

[LAYOUT 5 of 5 - Let go and leave it to the Pro's.]

Trust in your dream team of suppliers—you chose them for a reason! Coming from an OC bride, this was probably the most difficult but also, the most important task. There undoubtedly will be problems that arise on your wedding day, and no one is better equipped to problem-solve than them. We were able to focus on each other and our loved ones only because we let the Pro’s do what they do best. What a gift it was to be able to begin our happily ever after in pure bliss!

You can also check out our surprise SDE by First Wings Wedding Films.

 

Photographer: MangoRed Studios / Photographer: Ian Santillan / Videographer: First Wings Wedding Films / Preparations Venue & Catering: Grand Hyatt Manila / Ceremony Venue: Santuario de San Antonio Parish / Bride’s Dress: Pronovias / Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Bride’s Reception Dress: Atelier Ysabella / Makeup Artist: Japeth Purog / Hairstylist: Bianca Vergara / Bridal Robe: Natori / Bride’s Headpiece: Jennifer Behr / Groom’s Attire: Tiño Suits / Groom’s Shoes: Carmina / Bridesmaid Dresses: Atelier Debbie Co / Groomsmen Attire: Felipe and Sons / Church Florist: Sunny Florist / Flowers and Decor: House of Hermosa / Cake Baker: Lucille’s / Wine: Artisan Cellar Door / Alcohol: Bottle Service / Invitations & Menu Cards: kasali.ph / Calligraphy: Paige Tuzée Designs / Table Numbers & Stationery: Gabby Mac Designs / Musicians: Manila String Machine / Singer: Ralph Padiernos / Singer: Kiana Jacinto / Saxophonist: Ian Jacinto / Lights and Sounds: LX Events Pro / Rentals: Cure Rentals / Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Berlyn Yap Events Management

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