Photos by Jeremiah Peña
The bridal season is near and hopeful June brides are already stressed out about their weddings, and are probably on the last planning session ticking away loose ends – “Are we still inviting this friend?” “Is this the only flower option?” “I really can’t choose a gown yet, shall I go vintage or off-the-rack?” “We need another option in case it suddenly rains!” #Stress.
If you’re one of these brides and have no clue on how to get started, a lot of bridal fairs are setting up as early as now for your inspiration. Last April 2 and 3, Edsa Shangri-La, Manila staged a two-day bridal affair in partnership with Wedding Treasures, StarWorld, Fashion Pulis, Wedding Essentials and Weddings at Work, together with covetable names and suppliers in the wedding industry. Over 500 soon-to-weds and guests attended the event entitled “UNVEIL 2016” at the Isla Grand Ballroom.
The ballroom transformed with fairytale romantic designs and highlights on dreamy table set-ups. The Winter theme seems to be the trend as it was presented by three events organizer – “Golden Winter” by Michael Ruiz, “A Winter’s Heart” by Jo Claraval, and “Winter Fairytale” by Teddy Manuel. The other set-ups were teeming with colors of spring and autumn with such themes as “Ode to Autumn” by Henry Pascual, “Modern Fairytale” by Nikki Chato, and “Color of Spring” by Gideon Hermosa. Makeup artists and even barbershops like Union Station Barbershop were there to supply the groom and bridal looks. Famous photography outfits were also present to showcase their wedding coverage. Those who booked the same day during the event also availed of special discounts.
The luxe weekend affair highlighted signature weddings by Edsa Shangri-La, Manila and included the Exclusive Honeymoon that featured nine international chefs from the hotel’s culinary offerings and highlights from Summer Palace’s Chinese executive chef Tony Sum; Chinese Weddings and Ting Hun exhibit curated by Nancy Farm, director of Chinese Operations; and Wedding Cakes by executive chef Martin Frowd. The package also included wedding gifts and souvenirs as well as beauty bridal treatments by CHI, The Spa. And to help the soon-to-weds get in tip-top shape, the hotel offers a special pre-wedding fitness program for the bride and groom. The best part of the affair is that couples who booked the signature package were given complimentary honeymoon stays at any Shangri-La property around the world. Talk about a honeymoon dream!
Brides-to-be were able to witness trendy bridal gowns come to life with actual models during a fashion show from the industry’s coveted bridal gown designers while being serenaded by the Bernie Pasamba Orchestra. On the first day, Freego opened the show with Luxe Couture. If you’re a funky groom- to-be and is not afraid to experiment on your wedding day (and, well, if you prepared a good six-pack before the wedding) then Freego’s couture angels, winterlike prince, earth men, and dark prince might be what your bride is dreaming of. Val Taguba opened the show with a heart stopping red number (who says you can’t wear red on your wedding day?) while Spanish brand Rosa Clara showcased its latest ready-to-wear and custom-fitted dresses. Lace, embellishments and beads ruled Jun Escario’s designs, while Veluz got the crowd’s attention with her sweet brides, especially when her muse and soon-to-be bride Cristalle Belo Henares walked to close the runway.
The second day featured designer gowns by Roullette, Elizabet Hellie Yeao, Happy Andrada, Jazel Sy, Joe San Antonio, Zandra Lim, Hanna Kong and Andorata Weddings while a live band performance by Bloomfields played in the background.
If you missed this luxe wedding affair, you may contact Edsa Shangri-La, Manila at (632) 633 8888 or email events.esl@shangri-la.com for details and inquiries.
