I Married My Soulmate

Featuring Giovanni Aylmer Lim Fu and Anne Janelle Ngo Francisco

Giovanni and AJ’s love story began in the halls of La Salle, where they met as college classmates. From mere acquaintances, their relationship blossomed into a friendship that would eventually lead them to a memorable Valentine’s Day. A few days before February 14, Giovanni mustered the courage to ask AJ if she had a date for Valentine’s. When she replied that she didn’t, he invited her to lunch. They set their first date for February 15, 2013, planning to meet at the school gate after class. Their classmates, seated nearby, witnessed the start of what would become a beautiful romance.

The couple shared a delightful first date at Little Tokyo, where Giovanni surprised AJ by choosing a restaurant that served her favorite dish, Tempura Udon. The conversation flowed easily, a testament to their friendship. Two weeks later, Giovanni asked AJ out again, marking the start of their journey together.

For AJ, Giovanni’s commitment became evident when he began including her in his future plans, signaling his seriousness about their relationship. Giovanni, on the other hand, realized AJ was “the one” through a series of shared experiences over their nine-year relationship. Her unwavering support during challenging times confirmed his feelings.

The proposal was both heartfelt and unexpected. On January 9, 2023, AJ received a surprise flower delivery, which she initially thought was just a random gesture from Giovanni. After a dinner and movie date, Giovanni proposed to AJ at her home. He went down on one knee and asked, “AJ, through ups and downs, will you marry me?” marking the beginning of a new chapter.

As part of their Filipino-Chinese heritage, the couple held a tinghun ceremony on July 16, 2023, at East Ocean Palace. Despite the brief three-month planning period, everything went smoothly. AJ relished in her “Gandang Ganda Sa Sarili” moment, feeling beautiful and cherished throughout the day. Giovanni, excited yet nervous, was moved to tears seeing their families united.

Their wedding ceremony at Manila Cathedral was a dream come true. AJ, overwhelmed by emotion, walked down the aisle to Giovanni, who was also in tears. Their reception was inspired by the romantic floating lanterns from “Tangled,” reflecting their shared love for vibrant colors and starry skies. The celebration was filled with unique personal touches, from family dance performances to Giovanni’s first public dance with AJ.

“I was just smiling the whole time and looking at Giovanni at the end of the aisle, until I saw my parents at the half way mark crying their eyes out. I expected my mom to give her best cry, but I broke down even more when I saw my dad crying as well. He didn’t just shed a tear, he cried his eyes out. And that is something you don’t see everyday. I stopped for a second because I started to get emotional and hugged them both then walked down the aisle with them together.”– AJ

Throughout the wedding, Giovanni and AJ stayed side by side, savoring every moment of their magical day. The overwhelming support from friends and family made it truly special, with unplanned yet wonderful surprises like a full house at the cathedral and a much-loved grazing table at the reception. Each moment was a testament to their love and the joy of beginning their journey as a married couple.