More than just a dress, this masterpiece is an eight-year love story told through 2,990 seashells. Maria Elaine Bautista is the visionary behind Maria Bautista Bridal. Having created numerous dresses and gowns herself, she knows very well how each piece should be thoughtfully designed and executed.
When it was finally her turn to walk down the aisle, she immediately envisioned a gown that didn’t just look pretty but one that embodied her journey of love with Groom Jasper. First came the silhouette to hold every single shell. 2,990 shells are sewn into the gown to symbolize each day Jasper and Elaine have been together for the past eight years. “Cracked shells represent the hard days, the fights, and the messy moments we went through. Whole ones for the laughter, calm, and the love that stuck between us,” Elaine says.
Some write poetry, paint portraits, or compose love songs. Elaine crafted a remembrance of her and Jasper’s own story by hand with all 2,990 of the ups and downs, heart, beauty, and memories they will forever cherish.
Take a look at how Elaine walks down the aisle in the most personal piece she has ever created through these photos by Vital Image Photo.
Photographer: Vital Image Photo / Videographer: PRISM / Venue: The Lighthouse Marina Resort / Wedding Gown, Groom Suit, Entourage: Maria Bautista Bridal / Wedding Coordinator: GEvents Management Services / Styling: Tin Sibal Creations / Lights and Sounds: Molino Lights and Sounds / Fireworks: Skyart Fireworks / Wedding Rings: Viera Jewelry / Host: Gem Carlo Ausa / HMUA: Kristel’s Makeup / Mobile Bar: Tipsy Fella / Photobooth and Photoman: Fred Bautista Photo and Films / Prenuptial Videography: Dovetail Stories / Bride’s Preparation Yacht: Subic Yacht Club / Quartet: Edge Strings – Wedding & Events Musicians / Live Painting: Live Artsy / Behind the Scenes Content Creation: BTS Content Creator
