The engagement of Patrick Lim and Mariella Reyes
For Patrick and Mariella, their Ting Hun was never meant to be just a formality, it was a heartfelt return to their roots, and a joyful beginning of their own family story.
The journey began long before the red motifs and ceremonial trays were laid out. As third-generation Filipino-Chinese, the couple first sat down with their parents to understand the traditions that shaped their own love stories. What they discovered moved them deeply.
“What makes it more special is both our parents also had their respective Ting Huns back in the day, and seeing them witness us have ours really represents a full circle moment in our lives,” Mariella shares.
“Having discussed the preparations with both our parents, it was truly amazing how almost all preparations done before are still being practiced today.”
With guidance from Tinghun Tris, the couple planned a celebration that honored custom while keeping things simple and sincere.
On the day itself, family and close friends gathered in an atmosphere filled with anticipation and warmth. Red, the color of joy, luck, and prosperity, set the tone, as Patrick formally arrived with his family, marking the start of the rituals.
The ceremonies unfolded one meaningful moment at a time: the symbolic backward walk, the respectful serving of tea, the cake routing, and finally, the sharing of misua. “We kept our main colorway red. We also tried to keep it as traditional as possible,” shares Mariella.
“From the backward walk, serving of tea, cake routing, and eating of misua, we believe we will also pass these traditions to the next generation.”
When it came to the menu, the couple focused on symbolism over excess. Misua, a staple in Chinese celebrations, took center stage, representing long life and prosperity.
“We believe there is no specific menu for Ting Huns,” Mariella explains, “however we kept it simple by having one of the most significant dishes served during celebrations or Chinese events in general.”
Perhaps the most touching part of the day was how intentionally they involved their loved ones. Siblings, aunties, and uncles all played roles, reinforcing that Ting Hun is not only about a couple, but about two families becoming one.
“We’re so happy and grateful to have had the opportunity to celebrate our families with this tradition,” they share. With Ikigai Studio and Project Mayo 7 documenting every smile and tear, the memories were preserved just as lovingly as the customs themselves.
Wedding Essentials Tip: When planning your Ting Hun, start with the traditions that matter most to your families, then thoughtfully weave in personal details, whether through décor, attire, or participation of loved ones. A meaningful Ting Hun isn’t about how grand it looks, but how deeply it reflects your roots, your story, and the future you’re beginning together.
Patrick and Mariella’s Dream Team:
Tinghun Coordinator: Tinghun Tris
Tinghun Gown: Ella Chua
Photographer: Ikigai Studio
Videographer: Project Mayo 7
Hair & Makeup Artist: Mhoy Vistan
Event Stylist: Tiger Lim
Souvenirs: Manalo Candles
Host: Janelle Sy
