Filipinos are usually described as a lot of things, with characteristics such as industrious, warm, and resilient often making the list. One trait that is just as prevalent but doesn’t get talked about as much is how Filipinos are die-hard romantics.
Don’t know where to start? Let our in-depth guide pave the way!
Here’s how you can achieve a Filipiniana-themed wedding for your once-in-a-lifetime affair:
Filipiniana Wedding Venues
Transport your wedding bubble back in time and shortlist venues that pack on the charm and history of days gone by. Luxuriate in the glamour of Old Manila and opt for ornate structures with intricate interior details such as grandiose staircases and elaborate chandeliers.
While heritage compounds such as Las Casas Quezon City and Museo de Padilla are idyllic and fully immersive, you can also have a taste of Old Intramuros' cobblestoned appeal by celebrating your union at Bayleaf Hotel’s rooftop.
You may also opt for more accessible alternatives such as restaurants and function halls for intimate affairs. The key is to find a place that intrinsically boasts of the same quiet opulence, such as these rich hardwood shutters and old-fashioned Vigan tiles in Ministry of Crab.
If you don’t mind the drive, also worth checking out are the photogenic Guagua Mansion in Pampanga and the expansive Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar estate in Bataan.
Do note that it is possible to recreate the same nostalgic feel on a blank canvas. Regardless if it’s indoor or outdoor, you can definitely fabricate your own stunning Filipiniana-themed wedding set. Just make sure to incorporate the decorating ideas listed below and you’ll be good to go.
Décor and Details
Your guests will get their first glimpse of your refined and traditional nuptials through your invite. To keep with the theme, we recommend a classic invitation that is made more elegant with a muted gold font and bordered by detailed embossing.
For the day itself, display fine Filipino craftsmanship by embracing natural, organic accents such wood, rattan, jute, and solihiya. The soft warm neutrals not only make for an IG-worthy aesthetic, but it also reflects the traditional Filipino value of simplicity.
Simple doesn’t mean plain or boring, though! Capiz and pearl accents, offsetted by the warm glow of candlelight, offer unparalleled yet unintimidating sophistication to any tablescape.
This, however, doesn’t mean you can’t inject color to your big day. Depending on where you are or where you are from, you can embrace the hues and products of the region. Filipiniana-themed weddings are about celebrating our rich heritage, after all. Such was the case when celebrity event stylist Teddy Manuel exhibited endemic weaves and blooms when he was invited to showcase in Baguio.
Bridal Beauty
Hair and Makeup
Keeping with the theme of simplicity, you can never go wrong with the popular natural bridal look. Request for a barely there, minimal makeup look, that will enhance your natural wife-to-be glow. Show off your features (and your dress) by opting for a chic bun or a timeless low ponytail that you can further adorn with delicate antique combs.
There's no better peg for Filipina grace and beauty other than our very own Miss Universe 2015 herself! Makeup artist Justine Navato and hairstylist Jay Aquino nailed the perfect Filipiniana bridal look when they dolled up Pia Wurtzbach for a shoot.
Even Pia's rosy nails were on point! Pick a barely-there pink hue for that subtle touch of elegance. You can check out the aptly called Pink Nude by Orly or Rose Coquille by Hermès.
French Manicure - Pinks in Pink Nude, P425, ORLY, Rustan's
Les Mains Hermes in Rose Coquille, P2600, HERMÈS, Rustan's
Perfume
On your big day, why not spritz on locally-made fragrances? The warm, wood, and floral notes of Scentsmith Perfumery's Rose Musk is your wedding theme in a bottle: classic, refined, and traditional.
105 Rose Musk Women's Eau de Parfum, P1198, SCENTSMITH PERFUMERY, LAZADA
Bridal Fashion
Now every bride’s favorite part: the bridal gown! Even if it’s called “traditional”, there is no one standard mold for the terno. Whether it features flowy bell-sleeves or the structured-puff, a serpentine or ball skirt, plain or embellished; when cinched together by a talented designer, you will definitely look regal in your Filipiniana wedding dress as you grace the aisle.
Not a fan of the silhouette? You can try incorporating local fabrics such as piña and jusi, instead. Just remember to embrace Maria Clara values such as modesty and femininity when it comes to the design. Or not. There are no hard rules since it’s your wedding, anyway.
Finish your look off with pearls, and don’t forget to bring your own abaniko—not only is it a cute accessory for photos, the native fan might be useful for balmy, outdoor fetes too.
Celebrity Inspirations
Glean inspiration from your favorite influencers and celebrities' actual nuptials. Elements of the Filipiniana theme can be seen in Jess Wilson's bridal look, Hollywood silverscreen actor Darren Criss' groom attire, and Vietnamese-Norwegian influencer Alexandra Hoang's Vania Romoff gown.
Another celebrity couple that can't get enough of this theme? Mariel and Robin Padilla. ICYDK, they own Museo de Padilla.
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