Planning a wedding is a journey—one filled with excitement, decisions, and love. Whether intimate or grand, every couple dreams of a celebration that reflects their values and story. To help guide you, WE spoke with couples who made their dream weddings happen with heart, intention, and a touch of creativity.
Keep it simple and aligned with your values
Jasmine and Paolo Bernardo, together for 11 years, knew from the start they wanted a wedding that was natural and fuss-free. Though they only had five weeks to prepare, their years of dreaming laid the foundation for a seamless plan.
“From the start, we knew we wanted something simple—no fuss, nothing extravagant—just a celebration that felt natural and aligned with our values,” says Pao and Jas.
“We focused on what mattered most to us: a venue that was convenient for our guests, a meaningful celebration, and a relaxed atmosphere,” they shared. Their garden venue set the tone, and once booked, everything fell into place.
For them, clarity and decisiveness were key. They prioritized essentials and avoided unnecessary expenses. “We were intentional with every choice. Our biggest expense was the venue, but it covered everything—ceremony, reception setup, and food, making it a practical investment.”
Their wedding was a labor of love. Their rings were handcrafted, Paolo’s suit was custom-made in Kamuning, and Jasmine’s wedding dress was a heartfelt gift from her nephew. They encouraged guests to dress comfortably within a color palette, ensuring reusability. Their family contributed as well—her sister crafted dried entourage flowers, and her cousin baked their wedding cake.
When asked about how they manage their guest list, they said, “Our approach was simple: we wanted to celebrate with people who were truly part of our lives—those who have supported us, walked with us through different seasons, and genuinely mattered to our story.”
Instead of a rigid program, Jasmine hosted their reception herself. Friends played music, speeches flowed naturally, and the celebration felt warm and organic. “We worked with trusted photographers and musicians we knew. In the end, for a 200-guest wedding, we spent far less than expected while ensuring our guests and suppliers were well taken care of.”
Get a glimpse of Pao and Jas’ wedding here: https://weddingessentials.mb.com.ph/2024/09/24/jas-married-paonally/
Be specific and plan smart
For Giovanni Aylmer Lim Fu and Anne Janelle (AJ) Ngo Francisco, being clear about priorities made all the difference.
For AJ, it is crucial to research and inquire about weddings on different social media platforms to know suppliers’ rates and deliverables. Compare them and get a supplier that you think is suitable for your preference. Getting an on-the-day coordinator is also an option because, in their case, a 6-month coordinator is not a necessity. The coordinator goes in the picture one to two months before the wedding.
“Start by identifying what you truly need,” AJ advised. They opted for a wedding coordinator to streamline tasks and ensure organization. Researching suppliers on social media helped them compare rates and deliverables, allowing them to make informed decisions.
They also emphasized cultural traditions. “We had both a Tinghun and a wedding. Knowing what mattered most to us helped us plan with clarity.” Utilizing Google Sheets and budgeting tools kept their finances and schedules on track.
Check out Gio and AJ’s wedding here: https://weddingessentials.mb.com.ph/2024/08/07/i-married-my-soulmate/
Embrace the journey
No matter what type of wedding you envision, stay true to what feels right for you as a couple. Be open to challenges, take things step by step, and support each other throughout the process. Above all, enjoy this time together, cherish every moment, and let your wedding be a true reflection of your love.
WE got you!
Planning a wedding can be both exhilarating and overwhelming for soon-to-weds embarking on this memorable journey. Here are some practical tips to help navigate this exciting time:
Firstly, set a realistic budget. Discuss financial boundaries early to prioritize essentials like venue, catering, and photography without overspending.
Secondly, start early. Begin planning as soon as possible to secure preferred vendors and venues, especially if aiming for a popular wedding date.
Thirdly, communicate openly. Effective communication between the couple and their families ensures everyone’s expectations are considered, fostering a harmonious planning process.
Fourthly, personalize the details. Injecting personal touches into the ceremony and reception creates a memorable experience that reflects the couple’s unique personalities.
Fifthly, delegate tasks. Assign responsibilities to trusted friends and family members or consider hiring a wedding planner to alleviate stress and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Lastly, prioritize self-care. Amidst the hustle, remember to take breaks, spend quality time together, and cherish the journey towards your special day.
By following these WE tips, soon-to-weds can approach wedding planning with confidence, ensuring their big day is as beautiful and joyous as they’ve always imagined.
For more wedding planning inspos, grab a copy of Wedding Essentials Magazine here : https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AK6KQ2CTe/
