Words: Kitten Zapata | Photography: Law Tapalla | Event Styling: MC Pascual | Cake Artist: Cake Concepts | Big vases and Flowers from Julius Villamante | Venue and Food: Plaza Ibarra
Founded in April 2001, Ibarra’s Party Venues and Catering Specialist set out to redefine events, not merely as gatherings but as seamless, memorable celebrations that bring dreams to life. Long before event coordinators became mainstream, Ibarra’s was a trailblazer, crafting a unique approach that encompassed food, venue, and experience, all in one. Inspired by the character Juan Crisostomo Ibarra from Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, the company embraced confidence, education, and grace, translating these values into the way they serve clients and execute events. Over the years, Ibarra’s has blossomed from a single restaurant in Manila to a trusted name in the events industry, renowned for its sophisticated venues and exquisite service.
Central to Ibarra’s is its commitment to offering clients a personalized experience, especially when it comes to catering. Their culinary team collaborates closely with clients, working to capture the theme and vision of each event through a custom-designed menu.
As General Manager Ailen Flores explains, quality and consistency are non-negotiable: “We take immense pride in ensuring the quality and consistency of our dishes, especially during large-scale events. One of our key strategies is having our own state-of-the-art kitchen facilities right on our venue premises. This allows us to prepare food freshly on-site, ensuring that every dish is served hot and bursting with flavor.”
From sourcing ingredients to the final presentation, every dish is a testament to Ibarra’s dedication to an exceptional dining experience.
Styled by the talented MC Pascual, the modern fairytale aesthetic captured the romantic spirit of soft blush and dreamy hues, blending pinks and baby blues. Pascual’s work gave the venue a magical ambiance, turning it into a contemporary fairytale setting. A fast-rising star in the events industry, Pascual’s designs showcase his unique eye for detail and passion for creating unforgettable settings. This blend of romantic tones and modern elegance is exactly what makes Pascual one of the most sought-after stylists today.
Adding a sweet touch to the scene was a beautifully crafted butterfly-themed cake by Maite Gregorio of Cake Concepts. Each detail of this hand-painted creation was carefully thought out, featuring delicate rice-paper sugar flowers that brought whimsy and grace to the table. The cake was more than a dessert; it was a conversation piece, embodying the magic and craftsmanship that define the Dream Theme experience.
Chef Rey Nalzaro, Corporate Chef of Ibarra’s offers a delightful spread of flavors, starting with tender Roasted Pork Loin served with a rich au jus, followed by Chicken Al Orange, where citrus zest complements the savory profile. The Grilled Fish Fillet is elevated with a zesty Mexican butter sauce, bringing a touch of spice to the table. For a sweet finish, an assortment of pastries promises a satisfying treat to complete the meal.
