A Trek of Love

Featuring Jose Miguel Dungo Malabanan and Allysa Resultay

Our story began when we were just fourteen, after I mustered the courage to ask Miguel to be my date for the Sadie Hawkins’ dance – an innocent decision that would shape the rest of my life profoundly. From intermediate school to high school, SAT prep, church school, and college, we navigated these milestones together, learning with and from each other. Miguel introduced me to the wonders of travel and the art of appreciating life’s offerings. Together, we trekked 12 miles with heavy backpacks in the Grand Canyon, swam with Manta Rays in Big Island, and soaked in outdoor hot springs beneath snowflakes in Canada – experiences that enriched our bond and filled our hearts with shared memories.

For our wedding, we aspired to capture the raw beauty of nature and craft an experience that resonated with our guests, highlighting the artistic intent behind our celebration. Choosing a palette rooted in earthy tones – the verdant hues of eucalyptus complemented by warm browns and tans – we allowed the natural splendor of vibrant pink and orange florals to infuse the scene with the colors of summer. Playing with varying flower heights, we aimed to recreate the whimsy of California super blooms, inviting guests to wander through imaginary wildflower fields.

As the designated planners within our families and friend group, we understood the significance of collective effort. Enlisting the talents of our family members – Tita Chiw, whose print company, Printsonalities, created venue signage; Ninang Lana, the mastermind behind the delectable dessert spread; and Kuya Glenn, our reliable day-of coordinator – we meticulously organized the event’s finer details. With their support, we devoted time to curating the ideal seating arrangement over three days, transforming it into a delightful puzzle-solving experience. The effort was worth it, as the energy flowed seamlessly throughout the night, creating an atmosphere imbued with positive vibes.

Our primary goal was to make each guest an integral part of our celebration. To achieve this, we crafted personalized wooden cutouts of every guest’s name, doubling as both seating markers and cherished keepsakes. Additionally, we employed live artists to create individualized watercolor silhouettes of our guests, offering them a tangible memento of our special day.

By prioritizing the overall experience rather than fixating on minute decorative elements, our wedding cultivated an ambiance of ease and joy. Guests were encouraged to relax, engage, and immerse themselves fully in our celebration, adding their unique essence to our union. In the embrace of nature’s beauty and surrounded by the love of our dear ones, our wedding day became a mix of shared moments, laughter, and heartfelt connections.