Official Photos by NQ by Metrophoto
Wedding Essentials Magazine recently celebrated a remarkable milestone for its 20th anniversary alongside the 6th year of Tadhana, in partnership with The Manila Hotel. The event, held at The Manila Hotel’s Maynila Ballroom, highlighted the magazine’s two decades of inspiring and guiding Filipino brides and couples in crafting exceptional weddings. Since 2004, Wedding Essentials has been at the forefront of wedding trends and innovations, positioning itself as the go-to resource for wedding planning.
Mike Acuna opened the event with a spirited introduction for Mr. Kim Tan of The Manila Hotel, who delivered a speech, followed by a message from Jordan C. Tan, the Business Development Manager of Wedding Essentials, who reflected on the magazine’s meaningful achievements.
The event also honored key figures who have contributed to Wedding Essentials’ journey over the years. WE gave recognition to the following people for their immense contribution to the wedding industry:
WE Stalwarts for Fashion and Creatives–Doc Marlon Pecjo, Reynaldo Santos Jr., Jasmine Maeirhoffer, Gery Penaso and Madge Lejano.
WE Movers and Shakers– Philippine Association of Wedding Planners (PAWP), Mr. Julius Villamante of Amante Fleurs , Christine Ong Te-Events , Joyce Aguilar , 4th Wall , Metrophoto.
WE Thriving Visionaries – MC Pascual Kim Torres , Randy Lazaro, and WE Icons; Benz Co-Rana, Voltaire Zalamea , The Manila Hotel , and Ms. Rita Neri.
A special moment came when Editor-in-Chief Kitten Zapata delivered her heartfelt speech, sharing her gratitude for the couples, suppliers, industry partners, mentors, and publisher, Dr. Emil Yap III, who have supported and trusted the magazine.
“Wedding Essentials became the ultimate guide for modern Filipino couples, weaving together countless love stories and sparking ideas that inspired a generation. We opened doors for young dreamers, filling our pages with pure inspiration,” she said.
“From 2008 to 2018, the wedding industry was flourishing, and WE rode that wave, producing three editions and four issues each year. Those were the golden years, shared with a talented team that I’m grateful for to this day, “ she added.
She also reflected on her personal journey, recounting how her career with Wedding Essentials intertwined with her life as a mother, adding, “We were destined for this journey.”
“Most of the significant moments in my life were celebrated with Wedding Essentials. We grew together, we evolved together. Kami ang TINADHANA—WE were destined for this journey,” shared Ms. Zapata.
The celebration also featured a photo exhibit, “Through the Pages,” showcasing the work of the notable photographer Doc Marlon Pecjo, as well as a fashion show featuring seven talented designers, AJ Javier, Audwin Lee, Catherine Cavilte, Christopher Munar, Yeye Pantaleon, Doreen Odvina, and master designer Boy Kastner Santos. The event wrapped up with a toast and an afterparty filled with love, elegance, and creativity.
Wedding Essentials and The Manila Hotel remain committed to guiding future brides and grooms, reaffirming their place as a trusted resource in the wedding industry.
“I’m grateful for every challenge that made me see the world differently, for every couple who believed in what WE could do. Now, with every love story we tell, we don’t just publish magazines—we share the joy, the creativity, and the artistry of every wedding. I didn’t change WE; WE changed me, and WE brought me to this moment with all of you. I AM HAPPY,” Ms. Zapata underscored.
Tadhana 2024 would not have been possible without the friendship and support of the following:
4th Wall Design and Production, Amante Fleurs, Aldrin Jalandoni, BBQ Manila, Christine Ong Te events, Ed Dizon of E Circuit Events, Eds Go, HSBC, Hendricks Gin, Three Hens, G.H. Mumm Champagne, Lhara Labayne, Lotus Cars Manila, Lucky Bao Delights, Madge Lejano, MC Pascual Event Syling, MINI Philippines, Mixcraft lights and sound, Paparazzi by NQ, Potchie Guzman, Sensitivity Lights and Sound, Shutterbox, Triple luck nail salon, Twin Lakes Hotel Tagaytay , Vheeco, Charles Balcameda, and media partners: The Manila Bulletin and Weddings at Work.
