Planning A Wedding In The Philippines: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding in the Philippines involves meticulous preparation to achieve your dream wedding. The first steps are to set a date and a place, and then to set a budget. It's important to consider the season and weather, as well as the availability of your chosen venue. You'll also need to think about projected finances, personal commitments and other legal requirements. Once you have a date and a budget, you can start on your guest list and your entourage. Closer to the wedding, you'll need to fit your outfits, write your vows, and keep in close contact with your wedding coordinator to ensure everything is on track.

Choosing a date and venue

The weather in the Philippines is somewhat unpredictable, so it's important to consider the best time for your guests to attend. You should also make sure that the venue you want is available on your chosen date.

It's crucial to set a realistic budget for your wedding to manage expenses and ensure a stress-free planning process. Begin by assessing your financial situation and determining how much you can comfortably allocate to different aspects of the wedding, such as the venue, catering, and entertainment.

Once you have set your budget, you can start looking for venues that fit within your price range. Consider the size of your guest list and choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate everyone. If you're planning an outdoor wedding, make sure you have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes.

Finally, don't forget to keep in close contact with your wedding coordinator or planner to ensure that all the details are taken care of and that your chosen date and venue are confirmed.

Setting a budget

First, consider the projected finances and decide on a date and place. Then, list down your guest list and entourage. This will give you an approximate number of guests and help you allocate your budget accordingly.

Next, prioritise the different aspects of the wedding and decide how much you want to spend on each. For example, you may want to allocate more money to the venue, food, and drinks, while spending less on decorations or entertainment.

It is also important to consider any cultural elements that may impact your budget. For example, there may be specific traditions or rituals that you want to include in your wedding that could incur additional costs.

Finally, don't forget to include a buffer in your budget for any last-minute changes or unexpected expenses. It is always better to overestimate your expenses and have some money left over than to underestimate and be caught off guard.

Guest list

When it comes to planning a wedding in the Philippines, the guest list is a crucial aspect. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations to help you navigate this important task:

Begin by setting a realistic budget for your wedding. This will guide you in determining how many guests you can comfortably accommodate. Consider your financial situation and allocate funds accordingly to different aspects of the wedding, including the guest list.

Once you have a budget in mind, start listing your guests. Prioritise those who are closest to you and your partner, such as immediate family and close friends. Take into account the size of your venue and any cultural or traditional expectations that may influence your guest list. For instance, in Filipino culture, weddings are highly celebrated events, and it is customary to include loved ones in the celebration.

When finalising your guest list, keep in mind the unpredictability of the weather in the Philippines. Choose a date and season that are favourable for your guests' attendance. Additionally, ensure that your chosen venue is available and accessible for your guests.

To streamline the process, create a wedding checklist that includes your guest list. This will help you stay organised and ensure that no detail is overlooked. Provide a copy of the checklist to your wedding coordinator and a trusted friend or relative for added support and accountability.

Remember, your guest list is a significant part of your wedding planning journey. It sets the tone for the size and intimacy of your celebration. By following these steps and staying mindful of your budget and cultural considerations, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable guest list for your Filipino wedding.

Cultural elements

Filipino weddings are a beautiful fusion of modern and historic customs, with a strong family influence. The wedding is an important milestone for the couple and their loved ones, and the ceremony and celebration that follows are meticulously planned.

The strong family influence is reflected in the fact that marriage in Filipino culture is seen as an event that extends beyond the couple and encompasses family, community and societal values. Filipinos place great importance on family ties, and the wedding is seen as a unifying force between two families.

There are many cultural elements to a Filipino wedding, including the veil and cord, which are two of the most visually recognisable elements of the ceremony. The release of doves or butterflies is also a picturesque addition, symbolising peace and new beginnings.

The attire is also an important cultural element. The bride often wears a white gown, while the groom dons a formal suit. Some regions feature indigenous attire that reflects their cultural heritage, such as the Barong and Filipiniana.

Filipino weddings are renowned for their grand feasts and lively celebrations, with food sharing being a key aspect of fostering community bonds. The lively money dance is also a common tradition at the reception.

Many Filipino weddings are also influenced by the Catholic religion, with roughly 80% of Filipinos being Catholic. It is therefore customary for Filipino weddings to be held in a Catholic Church, where many rituals and readings take place.

Wedding attire

For brides, the traditional wedding dress is the Terno, a symbol of elegance and national pride. The Terno is renowned for its distinct butterfly sleeves, seamlessly integrating Filipino craftsmanship with timeless fashion. The Maria Clara gown is another option, often adorned with intricate designs and made from piña or jusi fabric. These outfits pay homage to the country's history and craftsmanship.

For grooms, the Barong Tagalog is a lightweight, embroidered shirt that represents the national dress of the Philippines. It is typically preferred by men, but women have also begun to wear it. The Barong is crafted from indigenous materials such as piña (pineapple fibre) and jusi (banana silk), making it ideal for the warm Filipino climate.

Alternatively, due to American influence in the Philippines, many grooms now opt for the "Amerikana", which consists of a jacket, vest, tie, trousers, a white shirt and matching oxfords.

Modern Filipino couples often merge traditional wedding attire with contemporary fashion trends, allowing for a beautiful representation of their heritage while catering to personal style and modern aesthetics.

Frequently asked questions