Featuring Raphael Laurent Yu and Charisse Mesina
Rap and Charisse’s love story began quietly in August 2021, at a time when the world itself had slowed down.
Introduced by fellow makeup artist MJ Bornales, their first conversations happened in the middle of pandemic restrictions. With indoor dining off-limits, their first date unfolded inside a car, just two people talking, laughing, and learning each other’s stories. It was modest and unassuming, yet deeply sincere.
“It wasn’t anything extravagant,” shares Rap, “but even then, it already felt real.”
As months passed, their relationship grew between demanding schedules and creative work. Despite the pace of their individual lives, they made it a point to always return to each other, to check in, to share meals, to pause.
That consistency became the foundation of their love. “We always found moments,” the bride reflected. “And those moments built everything.”
Their next chapter unfolded far from home. On their anniversary, during a quiet evening at a Hong Kong night street market, Rap asked Charisse to marry him. There were no grand gestures, only city lights, shared street food, and a heartfelt question.
It was his first time traveling abroad, and in a sweet, spontaneous twist, he had even told immigration officers he planned to propose.
“It was so us,” Charisse said. “Simple, unexpected, and full of meaning.”
On December 28, 2025, that meaning found its way into their civil wedding ceremony.
Officiated by Judge Hilda and surrounded by family, friends, and the people who shaped their lives, Raphael and Charisse exchanged vows in a setting that reflected exactly who they are, garden-inspired, rustic, intimate, and heartfelt. Nature framed every moment, and each detail felt intentional.
“We wanted everyone here to feel part of our story,” Charisse shared. “Because they are.”
As day turned to dusk, the celebration moved outdoors, behind a barn glowing with warm string lights. The reception felt less like a formal program and more like a heartfelt gathering, filled with laughter, embraces, and shared memories.
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when Ciarra Sotto serenaded the couple, wrapping the space in music and emotion. It wasn’t just a party; it reflected community, creativity, and love.
More than any styling choice or timeline, what defined their wedding was togetherness. “If I had to describe our wedding in one word,” Charisse said, “it would be together.”
As someone who normally creates editorial stories for Wedding Essentials, not traditional weddings, it was surreal for Rap to finally experience a wedding from the other side, in front of the camera instead of behind it.
To be honest, this wedding felt like home. Surrounded by good friends from the industry and their families, every moment carried warmth, familiarity, and joy.
It wasn’t just a celebration, it was a gathering of the people who shaped their lives, a space where creativity, love, and friendship came together effortlessly.
The groom realized that weddings are masterful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, a mix of emotion, collaboration, and artistry you replay in your heart forever.
This wedding was more than a celebration; it was an editorial story come to life, crafted with intention, style, and the people who inspire you most. And for Rap and Charisse, it marked the most beautiful beginning of all.
Rap and Charisse’s Dream Team:
Civil Wedding Officiant: Judge Hilda
Ceremony & Reception Venue, Lights & Sounds, Bouquets, Flowers & Decor: Our Haven Events Place
Coordinator: Kathryn Kim Torres
Photographer: NQ Studio
Videographer: Wishing Well Films
Bridal Gown & Groom Barong: Toni Rodriguez, Beyond White
Bride’s Hair & Groom’s Cut: Threema Salon by Miguelized, Culture Salon by Jim Ryan Ross
Bride’s MUA: Jason Delos Reyes
Hair: Kurt Andrei
Grooming: Myckee Mortiz Arcano
Bride’s Earrings: Christopher Munar
Groom’s Shoes & Belt: Godfather Shoes
Dance Coach Mentor: Lowell Basa Tan
Dance Rehearsal Studio: Olympus Creative Studios
Team Bride Suit: Nilo Bornales
Team Bride HMUA: Robin Medina of Styletech
Team Groom Barong: Joanne’s Barong Tagalog & Blouse
Catering: Hizon’s Catering
Band & Ceremony Musicians: Infinite Soul Acoustic
Host: Eco Sala
Singer: Ciarra Sotto
Invitations: Designed by Jennica Eulalio and Printed by Print PALS
Mobile Bar & Coffee Bar: Blaze Blend & Brew
Food Carts: 10TwentyNine Mobile Grill, Hizon’s Catering
Principal Sponsors Souvenirs: Himalayan Salt and Light Enterprise
Souvenirs: Franville Events
Crew Meal: Packed Gourmet
Bridal Car: Wencess
