Two Magical Weddings

Featuring Christan Jeryll Feri Alberto and Samantha Aileen Chu Cheng

Ryll and I first crossed paths at DLSU, where he shifted into the Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in English. We started as friends, and while our blockmates liked to tease us, it wasn’t until we became thesis partners that our relationship blossomed. Timing, it seems, had its own plans—my family issues and Ryll’s term delay turned out to be the universe’s way of pushing us closer together. Our first dates are a bit of a blur, but I remember Friday outings with our friend David, who was blissfully unaware of the budding romance. He found out when he saw us holding hands, and I could still laugh at how he initially thought he was just the third wheel!

Traveling, spa dates, and hot pot became our favorite pastimes. I laugh whenever I think about how Potato Corner was a must-have at our wedding—just ask Ahia Jordan! Our long-distance relationship tested us, but we managed through countless flights and time zones. Ryll’s commitment was unwavering; he visited me in Guam, China, and any place I happened to be. It made our time together even more precious.

I knew Ryll was the one when he showed endless patience and support. My family’s initial doubts didn’t deter him; he waited for my grandparents’ blessing, and that meant the world to me. His love and support never faltered, even when life threw challenges our way.

The proposal was memorable for its comical twists. I suspected it was coming, but Ryll cleverly threw me off track. The day my sister and her boyfriend were leaving, Ryll set up the surprise proposal in our apartment, complete with rose petals spelling “Marry Me.” I remember thinking how perfect and intimate it was, and the surprise made it even more special.

Our wedding celebrations were equally memorable. We had a simple yet meaningful civil ceremony in Guam, held on the anniversary of our official relationship. Ryll’s tears as I walked down the aisle, with my grandparents’ blessing, were priceless. The Philippine church wedding was a dream come true—officiated by my first-grade teacher, Pastor Francis Ang, and styled into a Midsummer Night’s Dream theme. It felt like living in a fairy tale, and the grand celebration was beyond what I could have hoped for.

Unique touches, like using international coins for the 13 coins ceremony and including Potato Corner, made our weddings stand out. The support from our suppliers, especially in overcoming some wardrobe mishaps, was invaluable. It wasn’t just about the elegance of the events, but the love and joy shared with everyone.

For both weddings, we chose not to use a hashtag. Instead, we used Kululu, where guests could upload their photos from the celebrations. Kululu also allowed us to live-stream the event, so we could all see and enjoy the pictures as they were posted. One of the unique aspects of our wedding journey was having two separate celebrations. I cherished the opportunity to experience both an intimate and a grand wedding, making our special moments even more memorable.

Two weddings, countless memories, and a lifetime of love—I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.

Ryll and Sammi’s Dream Team: Guam Suppliers: Ceremony and Reception: Dusit Thani Guam Resort | Caterer: Dusit Thani Guam Resort | Coordinator: Jane Kwok of Wedding by Jane | Cake: Dusit Thani Guam Resort | Invites: Print Divas | Event Stylist: Jeff Popatco of Bellisima Florals and Events | Photographer and Videographer: Shoreline Studios Guam | Gown designer: Rosa Clara | Photobooth, Lights, DJ, and Host: Nole Del Castillo of Music Sensation | Floor Wrap: Henry Herradura | Make Up: Michelle Dotdot and Charlie Catbagan | Hair: Ray Santos of Oceans and Noka by Beauty by Noka