Harmonizing Traditions

#WERealWeddings: Featuring Bryan Chung and Patricia Audrey Lansang

After nine years together, Bryan proposed to me following my successful Physician Licensure Exams, a moment he patiently awaited. As we began planning our wedding in January 2023, it was evident that honoring both our Chinese and Filipino heritages was crucial. Bryan, being fully Chinese, and myself, entirely Filipino, we aimed to beautifully merge our cultures. While wedding planning typically poses challenges, our mutual respect and consideration for each other’s opinions made the process smooth. Thankfully, our parents offered support without imposing their preferences. My family favored a traditional Despedida de Soltera, while Bryan’s leaned toward a Chinese ceremony following our Tagaytay wedding. Acknowledging the significance of customs to our parents, we respected their wishes.

In our quest for the perfect venue, Arocarria in Alfonso, Cavite stood out during our visits. The glass house nestled within a sprawling garden captivated us, its novelty adding to its charm. Despite initial concerns about the 4-hour travel for our 200 guests, their attendance was their commitment, making our choice of venue even more special. The wedding day at Arocarria felt magical—the cool weather, flourishing pine trees, and the ambiance reminiscent of Tyersall Park Mansion from the “Crazy Rich Asians” movie made it surreal.

Our vision for a modern wedding in Tagaytay incorporated vibrant colors, blending elements from our heritages. We opted for a traditional Catholic ceremony complemented by a Chinese-inspired reception. The white attire symbolizing purity in Filipino weddings adorned the altar, priest, Bryan, and me. Rituals like the ceremonial candle, veil, and cord were part of the ceremony. The subsequent cocktail hour paid homage to Filipino and Chinese cultures with a Puto Bumbong and Bibingka cart, along with a lion dance and fireworks signifying Chinese prosperity—an unexpected delight for Bryan’s parents and our guests.

The reception seamlessly fused Filipino and Chinese elements. Our chinoy-speaking host warmly welcomed guests, setting the multicultural tone. Chinese garden symbolism was shown through grass carpets, lanterns, indoor trees, and vibrant flowers. The LED visuals included a water garden. Later, a DJ entertained guests with beloved Filipino 90s hits while they savored stone-fired pizza and instant noodles.

Badang Rueda’s setup is a captivating fusion of Filipino and Chinese aesthetics. This unique blend harmoniously incorporates vibrant tropical flowers alongside traditional Chinese elements such as lanterns and opulent gold lamps. The design aims to spotlight the seamless integration of both cultures, creating a visually stunning and culturally rich ambiance that celebrates the diversity and beauty of this union.

Jake Villamor, a rising star in the wedding industry, serenaded the couple and their guests during the program.

Our wedding was I think a celebration of respect to each other’s traditions. To future mixed-couples, the best way to celebrate your big day is to compromise with your partner, and savor every moment of the process and the wedding day itself. Embrace the beauty of merging two distinct cultures—it’s a celebration of love, diversity, and unity.