By Shaharaine P. Abdullah
The onset of autumn is marked by the emergence of lush, natural tones—russet woods, amber skies, magenta flowers, auburn fruit harvests, crimson, brown and yellow foliage. Taking his style cue from the autumnal landscape, event stylist Randy Lazaro created an ethereal garden setting that evokes a romantic fall evening.
Lazaro’s setup was done at Taal Vista Hotel, a historical Tagaytay landmark that has an incomparable view of both the Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. The scenic view provided the perfect backdrop for Lazaro’s autumnal vision.
The setup’s focal point is a white, dome-shaped structure reminiscent of a gazebo. A huge floral arch comprised of scarlet, orange, white, and magenta flowers frames the entrance, along with ferns, green berries, leaves and cranberries. Inside, a thick wall of green foliage covers one side, while gold and glass light fixtures are suspended from the ceiling, illuminating tables that echo the jewel-toned theme.
The VIP table is covered in a dark, floor-length silk tablecloth with a table runner made of navy blue and plum fabric. Meanwhile, huge copper lanterns with fat white candles are artfully placed on the foot of the table as additional accents.
Towering gold candelabras filled with bouquets of peach, crimson, and terracotta blooms act as the main centerpiece, while gold-and-glass vases and brass candlesticks with elongated white candles dot the rest of the table. A garland of matching flowers adorned with assorted grapes and berries complete the rest of the table ornaments.
The dinnerware is comprised of elegant white plates with gilded borders and matching gold utensils, topped with pewter and blue glass water goblets.
Tucked carefully on the white cloth napkins on each place setting are the menus, courtesy of Print Divas, which are printed in rich, chocolate brown paper and feature an elegant gold-and-white calligraphy. The same calligraphy is also on the table and place cards, which are printed on forest green paper stamped with a classic floral design. Meanwhile, the invitations come in a complementary burgundy-and-navy scheme with a distressed paper trim and gold calligraphy, accompanied by crimson envelopes stamped with gold wax seals.
The exquisite stationery also indicates the fancy spread, courtesy of the chef.
For starters, there’s Grilled Corn Soup with corn and red pepper relish, followed by Salmon Gravlax served with honey mustard, dill creme fraiche, onions, capers, and micro greens.
For the main course, there’s the succulent US Beef Tenderloin wrapped with bacon and served with potato puree and creamy mushroom.
Topping off the meal is a sweet Banana Napoleon with coconut snow.
Completing the wedding feast is a beautiful three-tiered naked wedding cake by Camille Gabriel of Sugar Crest. Featuring a mock chocolate sponge base with a light buttercream finish, the confection is embellished on one side with a cascading array of sugar leaves, vines, red berries, rosettes and flowers in scarlet, orange, lilac, and turquoise.
Photography: Adrian Ardiente | Event Styling: Randy Lazaro | Stationery: Print Divas | Cake: Sugarcrest
