Featuring Ethan Lee & Erika Kristensen-Lee
Some love stories unfold slowly, others strike like lightning. For Ethan and Erika, it was a little bit of both—destiny with a dash of great timing. They first crossed paths at a Women’s Football Event—Ethan was busy organizing, Erika was hosting the concert portion.
“I had just come from a Hong Kong trip and almost extended my stay,” Erika recalls.
“But life, or fate, had other plans.” A compliment from Ethan led to an Instagram exchange, and months later, a surprise encounter at a speakeasy in BGC reignited the spark. That’s when their story truly began.
From the beginning, they were intentional about their relationship. “We were open about marriage and aligned in our goals,” Erika shares.
Their love story found its next chapter in a wedding that was as deeply personal as it was stunning—planned in just 37 days.
“Ethan and I are both known for being easygoing, and that definitely influenced how we planned everything. Despite organizing the entire wedding in just 37 days, we didn’t stress. We kept things light and fun with all our suppliers, always maintaining a positive attitude. If something wasn’t feasible, we simply moved on and found a creative workaround or solution. We stayed realistic about our expectations to avoid unnecessary stress, striking a great balance between bringing our vision to life and being flexible when needed.”, shares Erika.
Held at the Makati Shangri-La, their wedding embraced a theme of timeless elegance, with a color motif of champagne and ivory white. From the florals to Erika’s Mark Bumgarner gown and Ethan’s tux, every detail was carefully chosen. Erika, an old soul with a love for vintage charm, made sure her personality shone through, from their red 1970 Alfa Romeo Spider wedding car to vintage-style photography by Robin from FoundByLove_.
The highlight of our wedding was undoubtedly the Church ceremony, our vows during the dinner reception, and the heartfelt speeches from our best men and maids of honor. A big shoutout to Eddie Mallarie, Jiro Cervantes, and JR Francisco, as well as Aiyana Perlas, Alison Black, and Charyzah Esparrago for their beautiful words!
“Our Church ceremony, led by our beloved Parish Priest, Fr. Rodel, was truly special. Ethan and I, along with our guests, deeply appreciated his homily, which was personally tailored to our journey as a couple. He spoke about the importance of forgiveness and the need to create a home filled with love and excitement to return to each day. Fr. Rodel’s homilies are always inspiring, which is why we specifically asked him to officiate our wedding”, says Erika.
Despite its scale—only 40 guests—their wedding was rich with meaning. “We wanted it to feel cozy and connected,” Erika says. A draped arch hinted at an intimate reception space, transformed into a warm “cave-like” atmosphere.
The vows they exchanged were deeply moving, a heartfelt reflection of their relationship and the promises they were making as they stepped into a new chapter together. Ethan, ever the comedian, brought laughter to the moment by sharing their love story through his lighthearted lens, ending with a sincere promise to become the husband he had always aspired to be. In contrast, the bride, ever sentimental, penned a heartfelt love letter, vowing to stand by his side through every high and low.
A photo slideshow projected onto a cloth-draped wall brought the ceremony into the dinner, creating continuity and emotional depth.
One of the most touching elements was a custom jewelry piece with her late mother’s photo and the inscription, “Mom Cindy, walk with me now and always,” pinned to Erika’s bouquet—a symbol of love transcending presence.
Their relationship’s lightheartedness also took center stage. “We promised to savor every moment,” Erika says. From tearful vows to heartfelt speeches (and a few laughs courtesy of Ethan), the entire day radiated joy. The couple’s unique reception setup—connected tables and plated courses—blended Ethan’s Chinese heritage with Erika’s modern vision.
A personalized perfume station, classic string music, and the couple’s calm, intentional spirit tied it all together. “You can plan a beautiful wedding in just a month,” Erika says with a smile, “especially when it’s grounded in love, laughter, and what matters most.”
Ethan Lee and Erika Kristensen-Lee’s Dream Team: Church: St. James The Great Parish, Ayala Alabang Village Ceremony: Makati Shangri-La | Caterer: Makati Shangri-La | Coordinator: Sheena Anonuevo-Lopez | Cake: Daniel’s Bakery Cafe| Invites: Papier Manila |Event Stylist: Gabrielle Custodio | Photographer: The Paper Project @paperprojectphoto Vintage Photographer: Robin Melicor @foundbylove_ | Videographer: The Paper Project | Church Ceremony Gown designer: Mark Bumgarner | Dinner Reception Gown designer: Jerome Tayao – Tuxedo | designer: JE&Co Perfume Bar: Ben and Bart | make up @milagulfan | hair @catherinestaana | custom hairpiece @christophermunar earrings & necklace @christophermunar
