Featuring the engagement of Carl Reinante & Catherine Lim
For Carl and Catherine, their Ting Hun was never just a ceremony, it was a heartfelt beginning, thoughtfully shaped by their story and the traditions they grew up with.
From the outset, the couple envisioned a celebration that honored both their Chinese and Filipino heritage.
“We knew we wanted to wear the cheongsam,” Catherine shares, “but it was equally important for us to reflect Carl’s Filipino roots.”
The answer came in the form of piña fabric, delicately woven into their attire, creating a look that was, as Carl describes it, “Chinese in form, Filipino in soul.”
As guests arrived, they were welcomed into a setting that felt both familiar and refreshingly personal. Instead of traditional red envelopes, giveaways were presented in woven bayong bags adorned with the double happiness symbol. This thoughtful touch immediately set the tone: a Ting Hun that respected tradition while embracing individuality.
The ceremony unfolded with intention. One of its most moving moments was Catherine’s walk with her “model woman”, a figure she deeply admires.
“It represented guidance and the kind of marriage I aspire to have,” she reflects. It was a quiet yet powerful reminder of continuity across generations.
During the tea ceremony, the couple chose a more intimate approach. Rather than a formal lineup, they served tea to elders at their respective tables.
“We wanted it to feel less procedural and more personal,” Carl explains.
This allowed genuine interactions to take center stage, strengthening bonds between both families.
Food, too, carried deep meaning. The couple honored tradition with misua, symbolizing longevity, while also serving their favorite dishes.
“We wanted our guests to experience what our everyday joy looks like,” Catherine says.
Each dish became a shared memory, an invitation into their life together.
As the celebration drew to a close, what lingered most was not grandeur, but sincerity. Loved ones were not just present, they were involved, acknowledged, and cherished.
“Our Ting Hun became a reflection of who we are,” Carl shares. “Rooted in tradition, but true to ourselves.”
WE tip:
When planning your Ting Hun, anchor every decision in meaning. Keep traditions that resonate, and don’t be afraid to personalize the rest. A truly memorable celebration is not about perfection, it’s about authenticity, cultural respect, and creating moments your families will feel, not just witness.
Carl and Catherine’s Dream Team:
Coordination and gift display: Tinghun Tris
Photography: Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto
Videography: Albert Ao of Filmeo
Hair and Makeup: Chardii Niño of MakeupbyChardii
Ting Hun Dress: AtelierDebbieCo
Host: Marc Richmond Co
Lights and Sounds: Lim Lights and Sounds
Venue and Food: Manila Marriott Hotel
