From Serendipity to Forever

Featuring Raymond Joseph Timpug and Alyssa Kyle Cordon

Raymond and Alyssa’s love story began on a crisp evening in October 2019. Alyssa was celebrating her 25th birthday with a small gathering when a friend brought along Raymond. Their conversation was brief, and though they followed each other on social media, it was a fleeting connection.

The universe had other plans, and in December 2020, during the pandemic, their paths crossed again through mutual friends. This time, they delved deeper into conversation and discovered a profound connection. Both had been raised by single mothers and shared similar childhood struggles. The bond they forged over these shared experiences grew stronger with each passing day.

On October 15, 2022, Raymond proposed at the St. Joseph Chapel inside Las Casas Quezon City. For both, it was a surreal moment, marking the transition from their non-traditional family backgrounds to the cusp of creating their own.

The wedding celebration was a testament to their unique journey. Raymond’s thoughtful nature was evident in their choice of decor—fresh flowers were a central theme, symbolizing his tradition of gifting Alyssa flowers for every special occasion. The reception was a lush tapestry of blooms, marking the start of their new life together.

The attire choices were a blend of heritage and modernity. Raymond chose a traditional Barong, made with care in Lumban, Laguna, to honor his Filipino roots. Alyssa, desiring a modern touch, worried initially about the traditional attire clashing with the contemporary theme. However, their event stylist masterfully integrated the Barong into a modern, enchanting setting, showcasing its versatility.

Their prenuptial shoot at Lake Mapanuepe, Zambales, was another highlight. The outdoor setting echoed a memorable moment from their early days—when Alyssa drove Raymond’s 4×4 during a trail camping trip, a moment Raymond later cited as the point he knew he wanted to marry her.

The wedding day itself was a dream. With only four months of planning, Alyssa trusted their suppliers implicitly. Walking into the grand ballroom, they were overwhelmed by the sight and scent of pink and white fresh flowers, realizing their vision had come to life.

A poignant moment came when Raymond expressed his gratitude to his groomsmen with a heartfelt speech, and Alyssa wrote personal letters to each of her bridesmaids, celebrating their shared memories.

Despite the absence of a traditional family structure, the presence of Raymond’s father and Alyssa’s father figures made the day deeply meaningful. Her stepfather walked her down the aisle, and her uncle, who traveled from Japan, shared in the father-daughter dance, adding a special touch to the celebration.

Their wedding theme, with its pastel colors and warm ambiance, reflected the love and comfort they found in each other. It symbolized the beginning of a new chapter, affirming that despite life’s challenges, beautiful beginnings are always possible.