Featuring Christian Daniel Vergara Angping and Hillary Alexanne Barza Mendoza
Some love stories take time to unfold. For Christian and Hillary, it began quietly—two college students whose paths briefly crossed before life led them in different directions. Years later, a chance reconnection through a mutual friend brought them back into each other’s orbit. What began as shared moments in 2019 became a steadfast relationship by Valentine’s Day 2020.
Through the uncertainties of the pandemic and personal losses, including Chris’s father and beloved grandparents, they became each other’s safe place—proof that love can bloom even in life’s most difficult seasons.
“Our relationship was built during quiet moments,” Hillary shares. “There was so much going on in the world, but somehow, we found calm and certainty in each other.”
Their engagement on September 14 at Chris’s family home was heartfelt and personal—an intimate evening filled with genuine joy. “It caught me completely off guard,” she recalls. “I thought it was just a simple dinner, but it turned out to be one of the most memorable nights of my life.”
That same spirit guided their wedding day, held at the Grand Hyatt Manila, which seamlessly carried their guests through ceremony, celebration, and afterparty.
Inspired by mid-century Hollywood, their wedding exuded timeless elegance. Think warm mocha mousse, earth tones, and crisp florals in white and green.
“We’ve always loved the sophistication of that era,” says Hillary. “But we also wanted it to feel current and true to who we are.”
Family and meaning were woven into every detail. Chris’s late father was lovingly remembered through a special photo tribute, and Hillary carried portraits of her grandparents in her bouquet.
A display of family wedding photos honored the generations before them. “It was so important to us that they were part of the day in spirit,” she explains.
From Hillary’s sister designing a wedding newsletter to a surprise dance medley by their nieces and nephews, the celebration was equal parts heartfelt and joyful.
And the afterparty? A cozy spread of Hainanese chicken and soup that invited conversation and comfort. “We wanted it to feel like coming home,” Hillary says.
With every song, every gesture, every guest intentionally chosen, Christian and Hillary’s wedding was more than a celebration.
“It was a reflection of our journey, our families, and our faith,” Hillary says. “It wasn’t just our wedding—it was the beginning of everything we’ve dreamed of.”
Christian and Hillary’s Dream Team: Ceremony Venue: Grand Hyatt Garden Pavilion | Reception Venue & Caterer: Grand Hyatt Ballroom | Afterparty Venue: Grand Hyatt Penthouse | Officiating Pastor: Peter Tan Chi Jr. | Wedding Planner / Coordinator: Teena Barretto | Host: Justin Quirino | Event Styling / Florals: Jos Curates Nikki Chatto | Lights & Sounds: DNA Lights and Sounds, Forscink | Animator: Always in Motion Live | Bride’s Gown: Carlo Angelo Niu | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dresses by Laila Ramos | Groom’s Suit: Jason Ciprianni | Hair & Makeup: John Pagadu Kierlo Velasco Photography: Proudrad and Paparazzzzzi | Videography: Mayad Studios | Branding & Identity: Fran Lagmay | Souvenirs: Sky and Co_ Condition PH | Wedding Newsletter & Merch: Designed by the bride’s sister, Hannah | Photobooth: For Keep Sakes Photobooth | Drinks / Mobile Bar: Manila Craft | Food Carts: Sam Garcia, Araro Gelato Cafe Eclater Dimsum Manila
