Modern & Tropical Filipino Cultural Wedding Inspiration
As Filipinx-Americans, our culture and traditions are a large part of our identity. We pride ourselves in this culture and wanted to showcase our traditions in a current and relatable way. We looked to traditional Philippine elements as our inspiration but showcased it with a tropical, modern aesthetic. At the center of our culture, and at the center of the table, you will find that FOOD is always a highlight. From Ube (purple yam) empanadas to custom, hand-drawn cookies, to a full “kamayan” spread, we wanted to showcase the flavours of the Philippines. “Kamayan” means “hands-on” or “with hands” and this meal is not often considered “classy” or “elegant” as it can be very messy. By setting a modern table with fine flatware and custom place cards made from tropical leaves, we were able to show that a “kamayan” can be enjoyed at something as formal as a wedding reception!
Aside from food, another intricacy of our culture is found in our formal wear. A Philippine bride will typically be seen in this type of gown – called a “Filipiniana” or a “Maria Clara” which features butterfly sleeves as well as detailed, hand-woven beading throughout the dress. The groom can be seen in our version of a suit: the “Barong”. This sheer, embroidered shirt can be worn for many occasions from birthday parties to weddings to funerals. It is versatile but has come to be a well-known signifier of Philippine culture.
The florals from the ceremony, sweetheart table and bridal bouquet details all include tropical flowers and greenery to help tie the cultural theme together. The “sampaguita” is the national flower of the Philippines, which is part of the jasmine family. Jasmine floral elements were included to represent the tropical culture.
While it was important to showcase the Philippine elements of a wedding, it was also important that we showcased actual Filipinx vendors. This styled shoot was a collaboration of over 20+ vendors, 90% of which identify or classify as “Pinoy”. Each vendor that participated felt a calling to showcase their passion for our culture as well as demonstrate their individual talents within the wedding industry. Although the creative field is not embraced in our culture, we wanted to break the mold and show that we are capable of pursuing our passions. From photographers to florists to culinary arts, every participant was able to bond on a deeper level as we worked to celebrate the Philippines together as a community!
How gorgeous is this wedding inspiration from the Philippines? I’m in love with its tropical wedding vibe.
Credits
Concept & Design: Lovely Steph Creations / Design & Coordination: Magical Moments by Megan / Photography: Anne Salas / Second Photography: The Light and Glass / Wedding Videography: Christian Samson Studios / Venue: Unity of Tustin / Hair and Makeup: Emerald M. Artistry / Wedding Dress: Oliver Tolentino / Flower Details: Petalsandpricklys / Sweetheart Table Florals: Onceuponafloristla / Ceremony & Backdrop Florals: Yours Truly Design / Jewelry: Carlotta Collections / Bride Model: Lovely Steph Creations / Groom Model: Legacy.lifecoach / Peacock Chair: Alamode Collections / Furniture Rentals: Wooden Change a Thing / Tabletop Rentals: Dearly Be Collection / Dinner Catering & Wedding Cake & Cupcakes / Calajo Catering La / Appetizer Catering: Sweet Paolo Eats / Sugar Cookies & Macarons: Baking Bar La / Signage & Decor: Lovely Steph Creations / Candle Favors: Bodhi’s Light / Vendor Videography: Martin Cabrera Media / Second Vendor Videography: Take 10 Video / Vendor Makeup: Beauty by Jill
@Lovely.Steph.Creations @magicalmoments_bymegan @annecsalas @Thelightandglass @christiansamsonstudios @MartinCabreraMedia @take10video @Beautybyjill @legacy.lcsw @theolivertolentino @emeraldm_artistry @carlotta.collections @AlaMode.Collections @woodenchangeathing @dearlybecollection @Petalsandpricklys @Onceuponafloristla @yourstrulydesign_ @Calajocateringla @SweetPaoloEats @bakingbar_la @Bodhis_light @unitytustin
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