In the world of wedding coordination, each planner possesses a unique story, vast experiences, and innovative ideas that elevate the art of celebrating love. Wedding Essentials reached out to prominent wedding coordinators, both in the Philippines and beyond, to gain insight into their journeys, memorable weddings, and their thoughts on the evolving trends in the industry.
Amanda Tirol turned her love for weddings into a career post her own nuptials. “Helping others plan their day sparked a passion that felt like a calling,” she reflects. Looking back on her adventures, she recalls organizing an underwater celebration where mermaids graced the ceremony. “It was a surreal experience—exchanging vows 30,000 feet above the clouds,” she notes, illustrating the lengths to which she will go to deliver unique experiences. Amanda believes that passion, creativity, and the ability to tell stories through design are fundamental to her role.
“The most essential quality every wedding coordinator should possess is passion. It’s the driving force that fuels every detail, every decision, and every moment of the planning process. A wedding is not just an event—it’s a deeply personal celebration of love, and it requires someone who genuinely cares about bringing that vision to life. Passion enables a coordinator to go beyond the logistics, to truly understand the couple’s dreams, and to infuse every aspect of the day with heart and soul. It’s what turns a well-organized event into an unforgettable experience, where every detail feels meaningful, and every moment sparkles with joy. Without passion, it’s impossible to give couples the extraordinary day they deserve. Passion is what transforms a job into a calling, and it’s the foundation of every successful wedding we help create.”, shares Amanda.
For Bingo Flores, the evolution from hotel management to wedding coordination was a natural progression. “I thrive on being part of someone’s special celebration,” he expresses.
When asked about how he collaborates with the couple, he shares, “Collaboration begins with active listening—understanding not just what couples want, but the emotions and meaning behind their vision. A wedding planner’s role is to bring that dream to life while ensuring every detail is thoughtfully executed. By blending their personalities and preferences with professional expertise, he curates an event that feels authentically them while maintaining seamless planning and execution. Throughout the process, he offers guidance, refines ideas, and anticipates challenges, ensuring that the final celebration is both a reflection of the couple’s love story and a flawlessly orchestrated experience.”
In a similar vein, Cat Ebuen feels that love inspires her career, stating, “Weddings are about storytelling.” With her keen focus on personal connections, she invests time getting to know couples, aiming to reflect their unique journeys in their ceremonies. A standout moment for her was a wedding where heartfelt letters from the couple were found at each guest’s seat. “There was not a single dry eye in the room; it reminded everyone of the emotional heart of a wedding,” she shares. Cat believes patience and empathy are key qualities that enable her to create intimate settings that resonate with couples.
“I love staying updated on trends, but I believe the most timeless weddings are those that reflect the couple’s unique story. True creativity isn’t just about new ideas—it’s about reimagining traditions in ways that feel deeply personal. My inspiration comes from the couples I work with—their stories, their journey, and the little details that make their love one of a kind. Whether it’s weaving in cultural elements, curating unexpected experiences, or crafting intimate moments that feel authentically them, my goal is always to create a celebration that speaks to their hearts.”, shares Ebuen.
Christine Ong Te’s journey into wedding coordination began unexpectedly, transitioning from a career in banking to pursuing her passion for events and the arts. “I realized finance wasn’t my path,” she reflects, “and took the leap to turn my weekend passion into a full-time commitment.”
Over 25 years, Christine’s dedication has transformed countless weddings into unforgettable experiences. Reflecting on her career, she shares, “Our clients’ trust and experiences have shaped my path. Each event is a testament to that trust.”
Among the memorable weddings she’s orchestrated, one stands out: a couple at Conrad Manila opted for a minimalist approach, using a projector and wall drapery instead of an LED screen. “It felt like an intimate gathering,” she recalls fondly. At Klub Keluarga, Batangas, limited network coverage fostered genuine connections among guests, redefining the typical wedding program with heartfelt speeches and music.
Christine believes essential qualities for a successful wedding coordinator include optimism, persistence, and focus. “We’re the backbone of the event,” she asserts. “We keep the ball rolling, no matter the setbacks.”
Collaborating closely with couples, Christine ensures their vision comes to life while integrating her professional expertise. “Understanding their budget, preferences, and needs is crucial,” she explains. “Communication and maintaining strong relationships with partners are key.”
In a constantly evolving industry, Christine stays ahead through research and openness to change. “We embrace new trends while staying true to our clients’ visions,” she says. “It keeps us creative and inspired.”
For Christine Ong Te, each wedding is a canvas, and her passion for turning dreams into reality continues to define her remarkable journey in the world of weddings and events.
Daday Limjuco shared his unexpected foray into wedding coordination, stating, “I started in production for concerts and events, but it was my first wedding that made me realize my passion for it.”
As he delved deeper, he recognized that “the personal touch in every detail is what captivates people.” However, he faced challenges in establishing himself: “I really struggled promoting our team; working with passion isn’t enough.” He emphasizes the importance of intentionality, “You must respect others’ contributions while also recognizing opportunities for improvement.”
One of his most memorable weddings involved a couple who united in Tacloban two years after Typhoon Yolanda. “They waited until their 50s to get married, showing that love truly knows no age,” he recalls. The community’s warmth despite lingering grief was a testament to resilience and love’s enduring power.
Like most coordinators, Kim Torres ‘ journey into wedding coordination began with a passion for creating magical experiences and bringing people together. From her early days in college, she was captivated by event planning, initially gaining experience in production for commercials and digital projects. Starting small by organizing personal events for friends and family, Kim discovered her love for the intricate details that make each celebration unique.
Over the years, she honed her skills through collaborations with industry experts and attending conferences, continuously expanding her knowledge. Kim believes in personalization, ensuring that every couple’s story shines on their special day. Beyond logistics, her focus is on crafting joyful, stress-free experiences that reflect her clients’ visions. The most rewarding part of her work is witnessing dream weddings come to life and building lasting friendships with her clients.
Kim’s approach blends professionalism with passion, patience, and proficiency in logistics. She stays innovative by staying abreast of trends and fostering creativity, ensuring each wedding receives her signature “KTE” touch—”Keeping Them Excited.” Through transparent communication and a deep understanding of her clients, Kim collaborates closely to turn their dreams into reality, creating unforgettable celebrations that resonate deeply.
Similarly, Kutchie Zaldarriaga found her calling through a friend’s request to coordinate a wedding. “What captivated me was the energy, emotions, and meticulous details involved,” she reflects. Early on, her journey began while studying at St. Scholastica’s College Manila, where her involvement in school events laid a solid foundation. An emotionally significant wedding for Kutchie was her parents’ golden anniversary, where she experienced “the joy of giving back to them” through her professional skills.
“Seeing them relive their vows after 50 years of love and commitment was overwhelming,” she notes. Kutchie believes that essential qualities for coordinators include “exceptional organizational skills, effective communication, and a keen eye for creativity.”
Known for her innovative approach to wedding coordination, thrives on staying ahead of trends while maintaining timeless elegance. She keeps her creative spark alive by avidly scouring social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok for fresh inspiration—from unique floral arrangements to surprising reception entertainment.
Attending industry events, such as her own Getting Married Bridal Fair, and networking with fellow suppliers, Kutchie continuously gathers new ideas and insights. Drawing inspiration from fashion, interior design, and global travels, she ensures each wedding reflects the couple’s unique style. For Kutchie, creativity means staying open, observant, and dedicated to crafting unforgettable moments that stand the test of time.
Reflecting on her vocational journey, Rhed Sarmiento reveals, “I learned the ropes from my mother, who was a natural organizer.” Rhed’s unique approach allowed for a wedding without structured programs, letting the couple enjoy their special day free from constraints. She emphasizes the importance of understanding each couple’s perspective, saying, “Empathy is crucial in treating every event as if it were my own.” With a focus on quality over quantity, her team has adapted to planning multiple events each month while maintaining attention to detail.
When asked about how she innovates, Rhed shares, “To stay creative and innovative in wedding planning amidst ever-evolving trends, I prioritize continuous learning and research, keeping a pulse on the latest industry developments.”
“Inspiration comes from everywhere—travel, films, personal experiences—allowing her to infuse fresh ideas into every celebration.”, she adds.
“Collaboration is also key. Engaging with fellow professionals and seeking feedback from clients opens the door to new possibilities, pushing the boundaries of traditional wedding planning. With an open mind, adaptability, and a proactive approach, she ensures that each wedding is not just beautifully executed but uniquely tailored to reflect the couple’s vision and story.”, she concludes.
Rita Neri, a pioneer in wedding coordination in the Philippines, initially entered the field out of necessity. “There were no wedding planners at that time, just friends and family helping out,” she explains. Determined to professionalize the industry, Ms. Neri diligently researched planning, drawing inspiration from abroad, and even authored a book to help couples navigate their weddings. The importance of professionalism is highlighted in her words: “We’ve fought to be taken seriously as service industry professionals.”
A standout moment for Ms. Neri was coordinating the wedding of celebrities Judy Anne Santos and Ryan Agoncillo, where confidentiality and logistics were paramount. “The uniqueness of any event is determined by the people holding it and the circumstances surrounding it,” she affirms.
For anyone looking to thrive as a wedding planner or coordinator, there are a few must-have qualities that can make all the difference as per Ms. Neri:
1. Endless Patience
Patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity. Wedding planning is a service industry, and the key word here is service. This means putting the couple’s vision first, even when experience says otherwise. Sometimes, a planner just knows better—but diplomacy is everything. The goal is to guide couples in the right direction while making them feel heard and valued.
2. A Good Sense of Humor
In this industry, things don’t always go as planned. That’s where a sense of humor comes in. Being able to laugh at unexpected hiccups (and at oneself) helps keep the stress in check. Rita swears by her personal mantra: “This too shall pass.” With long hours and high-pressure moments, burnout is a real risk. Taking the work seriously is important, but taking oneself too seriously? That’s a fast track to exhaustion.
3. Organizational Mastery
Wedding planning is a balancing act between the big picture and the smallest details. Strong organizational skills are non-negotiable. A great planner is always thinking ahead—having a solid Plan B (and C, and D!) is a must. This is even more crucial for those juggling their career with family life. Effective time management isn’t just a bonus—it’s a survival skill.
4. Trust: The Heart of Every Collaboration
The most successful weddings happen when trust is at the core of the planner-client relationship. Couples need to believe that their planner has the expertise to bring their dream wedding to life. And that trust is built through clear, detailed communication. Regular meetings—whether in person or over Zoom—aren’t just helpful; they’re essential. Open, honest conversations ensure that expectations are aligned and that every detail is executed just as envisioned.
At the end of the day, a wedding planner isn’t just organizing an event—they’re creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And that takes patience, humor, organization, and most importantly, trust.
Stanz Catalan, a prominent figure in the wedding industry for nearly two decades, is renowned as a wedding planner and event organizer based in Cebu, Philippines. Leading Stanz Weddings, she specializes in multi-cultural destination weddings and event coordination, showcasing her expertise in creating seamless and memorable celebrations.
Throughout her career, Stanz has curated numerous high-profile weddings and events, earning accolades for her commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail. Her services are highly sought after by couples aiming to transform their wedding visions into reality with finesse.
When asked about how she handles her clients, Stanz emphasizes the importance of personalizing every aspect of the wedding to reflect the couple’s unique style and story. From décor choices to menu selections, tailoring details to resonate with the couple ensures a more meaningful and memorable experience for everyone involved. Stanz advises maintaining regular communication with clients, vendors, and the wedding team to ensure everyone is aligned with the timeline, expectations, and any changes that may arise. She stresses the importance of thorough planning, including venue logistics, transportation arrangements, and contingency plans. Anticipating potential challenges and having backup solutions in place helps mitigate risks and ensures a smooth execution of the event.
Stanz Catalan’s dedication to her craft and her ability to create unforgettable wedding experiences have solidified her reputation as a leader in the industry, making her one of the trusted choice for couples seeking a flawless wedding celebration in the Philippines.
Teena Barretto began her career at a time when wedding coordinators were seen merely as assistants—tasked with execution rather than creation. But to her, weddings were never just events; they were intricate, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that called for both meticulous planning and a strong creative vision.
From the very start, she embraced the role of not just a coordinator but a true planner—carefully stitching together every detail, anticipating challenges before they arose, and ensuring that every celebration unfolded seamlessly. Over time, she naturally stepped into the role of a director, orchestrating each wedding with precision, grace, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Challenging traditional perceptions of wedding coordination, she redefined the role—elevating it from logistics to an art form that demands strategy, creativity, and leadership. Today, she continues to push boundaries, ensuring that every wedding is not only flawlessly executed but thoughtfully designed to be a true reflection of the couple’s love story.
She emphasizes that weddings are more than events; they are carefully crafted experiences. “What makes our weddings unique is the intentionality behind every detail,” she explains. Although she began in a market where coordinators were seen as mere assistants, she shifted the paradigm by defining her role as one that requires artistry and leadership. Her goal is to weave stories into celebrations, and her commitment to professionalism shines through as she collaborates closely with couples.
Voltaire Zalamea’s journey into wedding coordination began in his college years at San Beda, where he discovered his passion for organizing events. His career took off when he worked under a renowned stage director, immersing himself in the intricacies of event management. His first wedding was a deeply personal one—that of his cousin—which ignited his love for crafting unforgettable moments for couples. In 1999, he officially pursued event management, and with perfect timing, his high school and college friends were beginning to tie the knot. Naturally, they turned to him as their planner of choice, and from there, his career flourished.
Among the countless weddings he has orchestrated, one stands out—his sister’s. Despite his extensive experience, planning for family brought a unique pressure, as all eyes were on him. After the wedding, his mother’s words, “Ang hirap pala ng trabaho mo!” (So your job is really difficult!) reinforced the depth of his craft.
With over 25 years in the industry, Voltaire credits his success to integrity, professionalism, and adaptability. He believes in balancing creative vision with practicality, working closely with couples to shape their dream weddings while staying true to reality and budget. A firm yet collaborative leader, he continues to redefine wedding coordination with passion and excellence.
These top wedding coordinators have not only mastered the art of planning—they have redefined it. Through creativity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, they continue to elevate weddings beyond mere events, crafting experiences that leave lasting imprints on the hearts of couples and their loved ones.
Because in the end, a wedding is more than a single day—it’s a milestone, a memory, and most of all, a testament to love’s enduring beauty. And these visionaries? They are the architects of those once-in-a-lifetime moments, ensuring that every “I do” is nothing short of extraordinary.
