Through Our Fathers’ Eyes

While the wedding day is probably the most exciting moment in a bride’s or a groom’s life, we probably can’t say the same thing for a dad. The day can be filled with mixed emotions. Excitement because there’s a new member of the family. Overwhelming love because all the people that he loves is gathered in one joyous occasion. At the same time, there’s probably a teeny bitty of dread because it feels like losing someone.

In some cases, the dad may be either sick or has passed on. But even this may be the situation, couples still find a way to make them part of this beautiful milestone. Our love for our dads run deep. And today, Father’s Day, we show you how much dads love our brides and grooms. Bring out the tissues, everyone.

FIL of Cheng

Dad of Czandor

Charm_Dad

Dad of Charm

Dad of Aiza

Dad of Aiza

Dad of Apple

Dad of Apple

Dad ni Fei

Dad of Fei

Dad of Gladys

Dad of Gladys

Dad of Grace

Dad of Grace

Dad of Grace

Dad of Grace

Dad of Kaygee

Dad of Kaygee

Dad of Maricar

Dad of Maricar

Dad of Marie

Dad of Marie

Dad of Shieg

Dad of Shieg

Dad of Shyr

Dad of Shyr

Dad of Tin

Dad of Tin

Dad of Tina

Dad of Tina

Dad of Jay

Dad of Jay

Happy 17th Wedding Anniversary Veluz and Rene!

Funny how things turn out. This sketch was supposed to be posted way before the WaW Videofest BIO: Veluz last May. But things got so busy and it was sent last night with no prodding. Coincidentally it’s their anniversary today. I think she thought about this because it’s their anniversary and I thought how apt it would be to be sketching and reminiscing and fantasizing about a wedding when you’re feeling giddy. See? Everything falls into proper places at the right time. Happy 17th wedding anniversary,  Rene and Veluz!

17th years ago today.

17th years ago today.

So here I am so proud and excited to let you read Veluz’s own words on What She Will Wear If She is Getting Married Today

Benz, Madge, Mimi, Ernest and I were chatting one afternoon when Benz asked me what I will wear if I am to get married today. I got excited and asked her back, “Waitttttt!! So, am I 26 again? With a 25 1/2” waistline? Weighing 105 lbs?!?” I started daydreaming–visions of me in that dress, with that veil, and those shoes. Portraits! Thousands of pictures in that dress with that flawless make-up and well done hair! Ahhh to be a bride again! Imagine what I can do now and with the people I am friends with. I can imagine how fun it would be and how beautiful I’d look!! Haha!!

Madge had to burst the bubble and said, “Article lang Veluz, baka naman di ka na makakain nyan!” To which I retorted, “Syempre hindi na ko kakain. Bride nga eh! Hrrrmp!”

Mimi had to make it worse and said, “Veluz, NOW, 43 yrs old, 4 kids.” And Ernest added, “Overweight, puson and all.”

Hay naku, the friends I keep!

So I decided I will make two sketches–for the 26-year-old me and the awesome, fabulous, mom-of-four me.

Veluz wedding gown for young Veluz

Made me smile when I finished sketching this one because this is still the same dress I wore when I got married 17 years ago. Of course, with a few tweaks here because I am better now at handling piña. And I realized that my arms at 26 weren’t really that bad. So, gone are the cap sleeves. Gown will still be in piña, no embroidery, no beading. Low dipped neckline, low back, fitted to elongate my torso and that full skirt with a little bit of train. Soft yet crisp. No frills. Because it’s me.

My hair will be short, channelling Emma Watson, simple studs on my lobes, statement ring on my right pointy finger and nothing where the wedding ring will be placed. That finger meant only for that ring.

Goodness, I am so enjoying this! Ahahaha!! Oh, Time Lord, please bring me back!

And that veil. I had a plain veil when I got married 17 years ago, but this time around, and with everything I know, I will have an embellished veil. Non-floral embroidery on the edge, with a little bit of gold threads and hint of silver and white beading. Crispness of Piña against the sheerness of tulle, for me, is just perfection.

Closed toe heels in nude and that small bouquet with dainty cascading leaves. And I’m ready.

Oh! My groom will wear a perfectly fitted barong with long-sleeved undershirt, and pants. Black socks, leather-soled shoes. That’s it. So Rene.

Now, if I am to get married now, with four kids, I need to share with you where I want it done. I want it in our provincial house where we intend to grow old. Near the beach so I can feel the soft breeze and hear the waves, with a large garden with grass and bricks where I will walk, big trees, and a quaint pool (yes, I need to have that house, it is a crucial part of the dream :)). The wedding will be attended by my immediate family, my team, and just our closest friends; 80 will be a big number already for the guest list.

Veluz wedding gown for today

I will wear a simple white knee length dress with some details on one quarter sleeves and a short veil. My groom in linen suit, my sons in white crisp shirts and linen pants, and my pretty daughters in linen dresses styled to their character. Us, saying our vows, good food, dirty ice cream and taho as requested by my kids, candles and trees, comfortable seating, just good times, only with the people I love.

Now that’s my kind of wedding.

-Veluz

Monique Lhuillier Launches Fall Winter 2015 Bridal Collection

One of our favorite designers, Monique Lhuillier, has launched her Fall Winter Bridal Collection and they are exquisite! Here are 10 of the gowns that we just love!

Anouk

Anouk

Autumn

Autumn

Bellini

Bellini

Billie

Billie

Estee

Estee

Gigi

Gigi

Moonlit

Moonlit

Primrose

Primrose

Saffron

Saffron

Whisper

Whisper

Official Photos of the Paul Soriano-Toni Gonzaga Wedding

WaW’s The Groom Code columnist Oly Ruiz has released the official wedding photos of Paul Soriano and Toni Gonzaga. The director and the actress are really perfect together.

Metrophoto‘s Oly Ruiz was gracious to share some behind-the-scene photos from the Soriano-Gonzaga wedding and you will only see those here in WaW.

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And here are some of the official wedding photos!

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For more photos, do check out Metrophoto’s blog.

Paul Soriano, Toni Gonzaga Holds Second Pre-Wedding Shoot

We all loved the National Museum-themed pre-wedding shoot of director Paul Soriano and actress Toni Gonzaga.  But the couple has another idea in mind–a second pre-wedding shoot with Pat Dy. We asked Pat Dy for some inside scoop regarding this pre-wedding. shoot.

When did the couple approach you for the pre-nup shoot?

Matagal na from the date Toni asked if I was free for her wedding. Sadly, I wasn’t available before so we discussed about having the prenup shoot.

What happened in the first encounter?

We’ve been friends way before pa. We shot a few covers of Toni. We met and shot Paul before, too.

What was the theme of the shoot or video? What is the significance of the theme?

To be as relaxed and simple as possible since I’ve shot Toni always with a glam team for her covers etc. Para maiba and Paul is a very chill, laidback person. He is more comfy shooting in a relaxed environment.

Other themes that were discarded?

It was just that theme or another concept theme that didn’t push through for another editorial magazine.

How were they as subject of the photo/video? What were your impressions?

We just had fun since I know both of them already from previous shoots. I do know that their love for God is very, very evident. You can sense it in how they talk the moment we started relaxing in between takes and right after the shoot. I even met Paul’s parents that day. I had the same impression–solid family with a very strong Christian foundation. I’m pretty sure their marriage will be very successful due to their love of God.

Give examples of light/unforgettable moments with the couple? I’m posting the light moment as we speak. Follow @patdy11 now!

Any other inside kwento?

Mabait sila super. No yabang at all. Very chill. We had fun shooting for an hour since yun na lang yung time nila from their hectic sked. I just came back from the US and nag-text siya if I was free to shoot them the day after. Of course, I said yes.

Sino mga suppliers involved sa shoot?

Just the make-up artist Krist Bansuelo and me

just makeup person krist bansuelo and me

Any photos you have na unpublished?

My other photographer friends from the fashion industry also shot them. Abangan!

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Wedding Gown Inspirations from the London Bridal Fashion Week

If you are stumped and are looking for wedding gown ideas, look no further as we compiled some of the best wedding gowns from the London Bridal Fashion Week.

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Sources: Web Novias, Colours Photo Films

World’s Top Wedding Songs

Spotify, the most popular music streaming service in the world, has released its top wedding songs. The list is based on what its users are listening to.

1. All of Me by John Legend

2. Marry You by Bruno Mars

3. Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran

4. A Thousand Years by Christina Perri

5. Ho Hey by The Lumineers

And if you’re looking for a song for your wedding’s first dance, here are the top songs, according to Spotify.

1. Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran

2. At Last by Etta James

3. Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley

 

4. Marry Me by Train

5. Tenerife Sea by Ed Sheeran

 

Aisle Do: DIY Your Escort Cards/Seating Cards and Place Cards

Another W@W Columnist debuts today. Ernest Pascual is aptly dubbed by W@Wie Luzel as Details Diva. He has this knack of making little details to complete the look. His expertise on materials and OC-ness is also a great plus. He wil be our resident DIY guru here with the help of Adrian Ardiente, who will be in charge of shooting the how-to’s. Let’s all learn with them.

Our aim is to give you and other soon-to-wed couples ideas on how you can personalize your wedding by doing simple do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. We also want to help you create some lovely details to make your wedding extra special. We will tell you what materials to source, the step-by-step procedure, and how the details we have designed look during an actual wedding.

Escort Cards/Seating Cards

A guest list is important in any social function and a wedding is not an exception. If you are having assigned tables at your reception, then you need escort cards, also known as seating cards. These cards will direct guests to their assigned tables. Usually, the names of the guests with their assigned tables are printed or handwritten. Then, all of these cards are arranged alphabetically by family name.

Before, simply an alphabetical list of the wedding guests and the seating arrangement (or the seat plan) were placed on the registration table. Through the years, this regular list has evolved into custom-made or printed cards. For this particular project, the escort card is attached to the packaging of the souvenir items which are handmade candles.

Here’s what you need:
• Jute bag
• Jute string
• Printed escort cards and sticker
• Souvenir item
• Faux flowers
• Corded lace
• Glue gun
• Glue stick
• Tissue
• Jewel stickers
• Puncher
• A pair of scissors

WaW Aisle Do Escort Cards Materials

Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Stick the label onto the souvenir item to personalize it.

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Step 2: Wrap tissue around the souvenir item for protective layering.

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Step 3: Insert the souvenir item into the jute bag. Tie a string around the bag. Set it aside.

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Step 4: Have escort cards printed. Punch a hole on them and embellish them with jewel stickers.

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Step 5: Tie a corded lace around the bag.

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Step 6: Slide in the escort card and secure it with a knot using the jute string.

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Step 7: Attach a faux flower to conceal the jute knot.

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The end result? These were used for the wedding of Miguel and Laverne. Beautiful, right?

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Photo Credit: Metrophoto

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Photo Credit: Metrophoto

Bespoke Tip: If you are having an outdoor reception, these escort cards must be securely fastened to something to avoid being blown away by the wind.

Place Cards

Place cards are commonly used on the presidential or V.I.P. tables. They indicate the place where a specific guest will be seated on the table. Create a conversation piece that your guests will want to take home after the party.

Here’s what you need:
• Jute cloth
• Roll of jute string
• Printed place cards
• Jewel stickers
• Silver buttons
• Glue gun
• Glue stick
• A pair of pliers

Materials

WaW Aisle Do Place Cards Materials

Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Cut the jute cloth to size.

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Step 2: Create fringes by pulling 2-3 strands from the four edges of the cloth.

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Step 3: Attach the place card onto the jute cloth using the glue gun.

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Step 4: Place jewels and buttons to secure the place card onto the jute cloth.

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These gorgeous place cards were used for the wedding of Miguel and Laverne.

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Photo Credit: Metrophoto

 

Bespoke Tip: Think of escort cards that will complement your theme. For this rustic luxe theme, place cards are attached on a roll of jute string.

 

Read more of Ernest Pascual’s Aisle Do articles at weddingsatwork.com/category/aisle-do/.

Toni Gonzaga, Paul Soriano and their Pre-Wedding Shoot

Metrophoto has just released the pre-wedding photos of director Paul Soriano and actress Toni Gonzaga! We asked Oly Ruiz, the genius behind Metrophoto, for what went on during the pre-wedding shoot!

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When did Paul Soriano and Toni Gonzaga approach you for their pre-nup shoot?

Oly: We talked about shooting the pre-nup very early on. Our first meeting was several months ago.

Are you also doing their wedding?

Oly: Yes, Metrophoto is the official wedding photographer for the wedding.

What was the theme of the shoot? What’s the significance? Were there other themes that were discarded?

Oly: Toni fell in love in the character of the National Museum when they shot a TV ID for ABS-CBN there. It’s one of her top choices for her prenup shoot location.

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What were your suggestions?

Oly: We discussed several themes including out-of-the country shoots but due to schedule conflicts we decided to shoot this one instead.

What happened during the shoot?

Oly: The National Museum is very strict with their policy and they didn’t allow us to shoot inside the galleries. But we made the best of the situation by making a gallery out of the places they allowed us to shoot. We prepared our own busts and paintings to create an in-gallery feel outside the galleries.

The shoot only lasted one and a half hours. That says a lot on how they are as subjects. Straightforward and a very handsome couple!

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Any other inside kwento?

Oly: I love how Toni is such a Metrophoto bride. Up for anything really. We asked her to sit up on one of the posts and she climbed up even before we started preparing the stepper she could have used.

Yung solo ni Toni na nakahawak sa painting? It was partly to keep it from falling. Hehehehe!

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And there you have it, folks! The scoop straight from Oly himself! For more pre-wedding photos of Paul Soriano and Toni Gonzaga, check out Metrophoto’s blog post.

50 Golden Years for the Golden Couple

I wrote this piece before the untimely death of my father on May 26, 2015. It’s unfortunate he did not get the chance to read this. This is a tribute to his marriage to my mom. -Abet

Wedding anniversaries are not a celebration of perfect marriages. We all know there is no such thing. Rather, it’s a celebration of imperfect couples choosing to stay together despite the problems and imperfections.

My parents, Boy and Perla Rana, should have been celebrating their 50th Golden Wedding Anniversary exactly today. But it was not meant to be. The date was June 7, 1965 when they exchanged I dos. But I guess it wasn’t a wedding the kind of wedding my parents had envisioned.

Lumban Express
My hometown in Lumban, Laguna played an pivotal rode in the marriage of my folks. It was the mid-1960s, way before I was even conceived, when my dad accompanied my mom to his hometown as she stood as ninang in the baptism of the eldest child (Ate Cecil) of my dad’s older brother (Tito Celso). Mom had to spend the night in Lumban before they head back to Aurora province where my mom’s parents stay. My mom then was staying in a dorm in Manila with her brother (Tito Ben). When she didn’t come home that night, my Tito immediately sent a telegram to my Lolo (Sixto Capiral) saying my mom eloped (tanan) with my dad. When Lolo got word that his eldest daughter spent the night with her boyfriend (never mind the fact that my mom’s younger sister, Tita Bebot, was with them the whole time), he commanded that my dad marry my mom.

Yes, just like in the old black & white Tagalog movies. You can say it’s pikot (shotgun wedding) only if my dad didn’t like to marry my mom. But he did. Maybe not exactly in that scenario, but she’s the one he wanted to marry. Sadly, I don’t remember seeing any of my parent’s wedding pictures growing up. I don’t think there was any since it was an “unexpected” wedding. What I remember seeing is a group shot of the couple with their friends in Lumban celebrating their union.

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Hawaii Four-O
So growing up, I hear my mom saying she want to celebrate their 25th Silver Wedding so she can finally wear a wedding gown and walk down the aisle. But it wasn’t meant to be. 1990 was a time when their relationship wasn’t exactly rosy. My mom went to the States while my dad stayed in Manila but he was not living with us.
But their physical separation wasn’t for long, they got back together. It was also the time when their kids have graduated from college and started to get married to start their own family. Then grand kids came along.
We knew my mom still wants to get to experience a wedding as she said she wants her grandkids to be the bearers and flower girls. But 50 years seem like a long wait.

So in 2005, during their 40th ruby wedding anniversary, we booked The Coconut Palace and the mini-chapel within the complex to finally hold the wedding that my mom has been looking forward to have. We all pitched in to contribute. With my eldest brother Fol standing as the official photographer and our supplier friends in W@W helping create the outdoor luau party we envisioned, my parents finally got to invite their family and friends to their own wedding. It was finally a fulfillment of my mom’s dream wedding.

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Sunshine Cruise
Another 10 years came by and talks about their golden wedding anniversary came up. Everyone unanimously agreed that we hold it in a cruise this time and make it a strictly family affair. But June was out of the question since the kids got classes. So we looked for a date where everyone was free and that was the weekend of Holy Week.
Weeks before, the grown-ups agreed to pool our money and pledged to shed off some pounds with the pot going to the Biggest Loser. It’s part of the motivation to lose some weight so they can dress up for the wedding.

From Manila, the entire family took a flight to Hong Kong. At HKIA, we met my with sister, her family from Australia, and my OFW/expat nephew from Korea before we went on board the cruise.

It was more of a vacation really than a wedding. The upper deck of the ship was closed exclusively for our family one afternoon while we were docked in Taiwan for the golden ceremony. The captain of the ship was there to officiate the ceremony. And the rest of the afternoon was spent taking pictures.

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Since we didn’t have any wedding supplier with us and Kuya Fol wasn’t with us anymore, the rest of the family took turns to be the photographer, thanks also to the trusty tripod. The shoot lasted longer than the ceremony itself. Hehe!

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Three round tables were reserved to us at Genting Palace for the reception dinner.

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It was an unforgettable experience for the whole family. All credit goes to the groom for wanting to make his bride happy, along with the rest of the family.

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Happy 50th wedding anniversary, Papa and Mommy! Half a century is a feat that not all married couples are privileged to celebrate. Thank you for choosing to celebrate it with family when you guys could have easily spent it without us.

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Cheers to the re-newlyweds!

2015 WaW Videofest: An Interview with Veluz

That night she was rendered speechless after watching six films about her. The bubbly lady suddenly turned tearful, mushy and tongue-tied while standing in front of almost 300 of her fans. Mic in hand, she stammered through her thanks. But the humble person inside won over and through her overwhelmed state pushed her to call out her staff to join her up front to share the limelight. Not a bit contrived. All real. All sincere. All heart. That’s who Veluz is. That’s why is she is loved.

The 2015 WaW Videofest chose Veluz as the feature for its third run. According to Benz Co-Rana, Mimma to the WaW community, “Veluz is an inspiration to so many people in so many ways. It’s difficult to capture all of her in just one film. Even the six that we produced about her for this videofest does not completely capture her enigma.”

Benz adds, “By creating six different films on her, we hoped to give people different views of this fascinating woman: the designer, the boss, the daughter, sister, friend, mother and friend. For wedding suppliers, so much can be learned of Veluz’s work ethics. Her amazing relationship with her staff is something that I would want to emulate. Most of all I am amazed at how she managed to gain her success without sacrificing her family to achieve this.”

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The stammering designer who stood in front of the crowd that night couldn’t believe what had just transpired. Even she was surprised at her own level of surprise! Veluz shares, “I was blown away by the films. Watching the different videos was a surreal experience.  With the video made by Bob Nicolas, the past suddenly came back, although it certainly didn’t feel that way when it was happening. I was just living each day, surviving each day. I was just trying to be better each day. I had no idea that I was making an impact on anyone. Those videos made me realize what a beautiful life I’ve had and have.”

In the deluge of emotions of that evening, Veluz recounts one particular feeling that continues to linger two weeks after the event and that is an overwhelming sense of gratitude for so many things. First is for the Weddings at Work. In her speech at the Videofest, Veluz said, “10 years ago WaW changed my life. This was when I won as Supplier of the Year.”

In our chat she explained that being the WaW Supplier of the Year made her realize that she had achieved so much without even realizing it. That award validated all her hard work, her sacrifices, her commitment to her craft and the great effort she put into getting to know her brides. Veluz felt that in receiving the award, she no longer needed to prove herself. She adds, “Then 10 years after WaW does it again. They’re changing my life again with this videofest. WaW is responsible for 2 of the most special nights of my life and I will be forever grateful for that. This validation coupled with sincere friendship, this is all priceless.”

Second are the videographers. Veluz shares, “The work of the videographers was amazing. Everything I wanted to tell they were able to bring to capture and being to life on screen. What I especially liked was how they were able to seize the essence of the different aspects of my life. The interviews of my family, friends and classmates were done so well. The videographers were able to capture that beautifully and present it magnificently. I was so touched that Bong of W@W Videofest: Veluz by Threelogy was able to capture the laughter and tears of my staff. The video W@W Videofest: Veluz by Jason Magbanua did of the brides was quite moving because what they said what exactly what I was hoping to make them feel.”

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When most designers would want to take all the adulation, with Veluz it’s the polar opposite. Her bride is the Star. Her gown is the key in making this happen. Because months prior to the special day, someone with a pure heart had seen the true beauty that lies inside the bride. She captured that fire and translated it into a design, first on paper, then eventually on fabric, with the creative smattering of beads and layers of lace. Every being of the bride is sewn into that gown, stitch by stitch, bead by bead. And in every step of the process Veluz breathes her air of magic unto the dress. It’s like she silently utters a charm of love and happiness into each piece that makes up the whole. And when the bride finally wears her gown, she in enveloped in an unspeakable glow.

Although a Veluz gown stands out distinctively, it is the bride that really shines. You and I are among thousands who have ooohhhed and aaahhhed over Veluz’s creations. Stunning while on a mannequin, still nothing compares to the beauty of the dress when it is finally worn by the only person who can own it, the bride. In Jason Magbanua’s film for the 2015 WaW Videofest, a Veluz bride, Timi Gomez-Aquino, summed up the magic succinctly when she said “You know women, we live our lives for other people. You’re a good daughter first. You’re a good wife. You’re a good mother. But on my wedding day, that gown, that was for me.”

Veluz does more than create “the most beautiful gown you will ever wear”, as Jason Magbanua has dubbed his Veluz film. In fact Veluz does more than give you confidence on your wedding day. She gives you back your person so that on your wedding day you can own the moment. You can own your beauty…..like you always should. Because you deserve it. It takes a truly selfless person to do this.

She has her own kind of unique that she generously passes on to the people around her.  Perhaps that is why in the midst of her success, no one can argue that Veluz deserves all of it and all that is coming. Because when a person blessed with immense talent chooses to use this gift to bring love and happiness to every person who comes her way – be it the bride, the groom, her family, her friends and her staff – then this returns to her a million fold.

On hearing the numerous people talk about how she has inspired them, Veluz reveals “It is overwhelming to hear that I have made an impact on anyone. It’s amazing to realize that unknowingly I have left imprints with the people I have met and worked with. I did not set out to do that. I was just trying to be true to myself, doing what mattered to me most for the people who mattered to me most.”

When confronted with her achievements Veluz has this to say, “Fame and fortune will come. Just do what you need to do. What is really more important is to maintain the integrity and the dignity in the face of success. Do what is right all the time and everything will fall into place. That is the Law of the Universe.” She adds, “We need to change our paradigm of fame. I don’t need the glitter. None of that means anything to me. What I want is the continuity of work. What empowers me is that I am able to support my family and give continuous livelihood to my staff.”

On the evening of the 2015 WaW Videofest, Veluz stood in front of the crowd, tearful and overwhelmed. Beyond words, in fact. If truth be told, there was really no need for words. The applause, the hugs and tears that flowed were all that was needed. Love simply overflowed that night and for a very special reason, because the source of it all–the reluctant star, the undisputed Queen of the Aisle, the caring boss, obedient daughter, doting mother and loving wife–her cup of love is limitless.

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In Benz’s words, “With the WaW Videofest we hope to share the amazing story of Veluz not just with the wedding community but with even with people outside the wedding industry. Veluz is an inspiration and the world needs to know about her.”

For Veluz the recent WaW Videofest holds a very special part in her heart. Veluz shares, “The videos enabled me to share my life with my children. There is nothing I want more in life than for them to learn the value of hard work. My fervent wish for them is that someday they, too, will find what they really want to be and live that life to the fullest, just like what I am doing now. My work makes me happy. I pray that they will find the work that will give them that satisfaction too.”

What is especially poignant for Veluz is, “The videofest literally made me look back at my life….so that I can look forward. Watching those videos made me appreciate my life in ways that I have never imagined before. I saw everything I’ve done presented in front of me and hearing all those people share how I have touched their lives has given me a profound feeling of hope. This experience has made me look forward again.”

Two weeks after that memorable night, what’s next for Veluz? She answers in her signature humor, “Maybe you can ask me in another 2 weeks. I’m still on a high from the Videofest!”

For Veluz, the future is waiting for you. The world is waiting for you. We wish you all the luck as you move forward with your awesome life.

2015 WaW Videofest Presents Veluz

The 2015 WaW Videofest might be over, two weeks ago to be exact. But the magic of the night still lingers on. This year’s edition of the much-awaited WaW Videofest featured the life and work of the Queen of the Aisle and brides’ favorite wedding gown designer, Veluz Puno-Reyes. The well-attended event held at the Cinema 3 of the Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Makati brought together people of the WaW community to celebrate brides-favorite and everyone’s sweetheart, Veluz.

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The Videofest featuring six wedding videographers were handpicked by Veluz and trimmed down further by WaW founders, John and Benz Rana, to chronicle the life and work of famed gown designer Veluz.

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The jam-packed theater, which seats almost 300, welcomed two batches of avid Veluz fans.

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www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

Veluz arrived surrounded by family members, including hubby and number one advisor, Rene, and their children and Veluz’s parents.

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www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

In the short program that followed each showing, a clearly emotional Veluz gave her thanks to the people involved in the project. Ever the humble soul, she called her entire staff to the front to share this special moment with her.

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The complete cast, stars and makers of the 2015 WaW Videofest: Veluz, John and Benz Rana, the six videographers: Jason Magbanua, Threelogy, Bob Nicolas, Ian Cruz, Marvi de Guzman and Leo Nicolas & (missing Rupert Nicolas) of Notion in Motion and the staff behind the Veluz brand.

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The selection of filmmakers represented an evenhanded mix of wedding videographers. Leading the pack was none other than international wedding video rock star Jason Magbanua along with veteran videographers Bob Nicolas and Threelogy. In the group were future stars of the wedding industry Ian Cruz, Marvi de Guzman of Cinemaworks and Leo and Rupert Nicolas of Notion N Motion.

www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

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As with any WaW event everything was a collaboration of wedding suppliers. Popular wedding host, Atom Ungson, played the role of emcee for both showings.

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John and Benz gave their respective messages.

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www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

Opening prayers were led by Veluz’s little princess, Bianca, for the first showing.

www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

For the second, Imagination founder and long-time WaW friend & Veluz friend, John Mateos Ong, led the prayers.

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Adorable edible token of thanks courtesy of event stylist and florist Teddy Manuel were given to the videographers.

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The after showing party drew those close to Veluz.

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Wine, cheese, crackers and heavy cocktails were gone in a snap but happy conversations lasted throughout the evening and well into the early morning hours.

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www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

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Moments before and after the showings were, of course, opportunities for groupies. Not a second was left to waste as evidenced by these pics.

www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

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WaW Videofest Veluz37

www.benjietiongco.com

www.benjietiongco.com

The WaW Videofest continues to bring together the people of the WaW community in a celebration that honors hard-work, astounding talent, friendship and never-ending love.

W@W Videofest: Veluz by Jason Magbanua

You may think of this the close encounter of the artistic geniuses.

How else would you describe international wedding videographer, Jason Magbanua, doing the finale for the 2015 WaW Videofest for fellow world-renowned gown designer, Veluz Puno-Reyes?

Jason knows all too well the pulse of the WaW Videofest, having been part of the first run in 2009 and having been the subject of the 2011 Videofest. Now that this year’s event puts the spotlight on Veluz, Jason once again takes to his comfort zone, behind the lens.

When asked what the videofest means to him, his answer was, “I think the unspoken thing about this, it’s a friendly competition. So no matter how friendly we are, all these people are my ‘compares’, it’s still a friendly competition. Not to outdo each other but to just push ourselves individually of what we can do. Because the cinema, it’s a platform that we rarely get the chance to have. And regardless of how close the topic is or even if it doesn’t have mass appeal, because still the niche is wedding or to be limited about it it’s about Weddings at Work in general, it’s still a great platform to be featured in.”

This year’s Videofest star is no stranger to Jason as he and Veluz have been on the same aisle, so to speak, countless times and a run-in with the designer is an ordinary occurrence. Just another working day for both. But during the production Jason was surprised at what he learned about Veluz. Jason shares, “Before the interviews I did not think I could admire and respect Veluz more.”

On the treatment that he used for the film he says, “I already know that there exists a bond, this relationship that exists between Veluz and the brides. It’s plain to see. But to be able to present it in a visually arresting manner, that was the task, how to make it visually engaging.” He furthers, “A lot planning went into what I did. I suppose a third of the time was thinking about what to execute, what to do…more of treatment.”

On his work about Veluz, Jason shares, “The title of my piece is “The Most Beautiful Dress You Will Ever Wear.” And the set piece is a body form mannequin without a dress. I wanted to communicate that there is no one beautiful dress but all of these dresses owned by the brides that I talked to, their dress is the most beautiful for them. It’s the bond between the designer and the bride which makes it the MOST beautiful. It is up in the sky. It is intangible, it is abstract. It is in their minds. Whatever design the designer thinks of for the bride that is placed on that body form, based on their dynamics, that’s the most beautiful.”

The genius storyteller that Jason is focuses on Veluz through her brides and their deep relationship. Nothing else. In fact there is nothing else that will distract you from that while watching this film. Jason masterfully worked in a minimalist visual treatment to provide the viewer with an unobstructed scene. Set against a starkly sparse background with just the hint of fabric, a chair and bright, fresh lighting that draws your attention to the bride on the hot seat. No diversions present. Just the bride and what she has to say. The story is in her words. Just listen.

Jason creates the most perfect homage to the artistry of Veluz, a quiet listen of the work of a great artist, whose secret to creating the perfect dress for the bride is to listen to the person, to that girl inside as she pours her heart out and shares her precious dream wedding. Listening is Veluz’s her greatest form of respect for her bride. It is a kindness that she shows to all her brides and a kindness that Jason, who perfectly understands those silent but profound ripples, returns to Veluz in this sublime tribute.

What makes Veluz shine in this film and in real life, according to Jason, is “her authenticity. She’s a listener. She does not compromise. It is not about the money, no matter how expensive she is. It is how she treats her work, her staff and her brides. She’s is true to herself and to everybody.”

Jason Magbanua’s “The Most Beautiful Dress You Will Ever Wear” for the 2015 WaW Veluz Videofest.

 

W@W Videofest: Veluz by Threelogy

Watching Threelogy’s film on Veluz and her staff for the 2015 WaW Videofest, I couldn’t figure out whether to cry or laugh or do both at the same time. How can a film be hilarious and moving at the same time? Only one team can pull off this insanely profound narrative on wedding gown designer star, Veluz, Threelogy.

Their film on Veluz for the recently concluded 2015 W@W Videofest proves once more the creative insanity of Bong, CJ and Jon. The Three Stooges of the Philippine wedding world they truly are.

Threelogy and Veluz have long been friends, having worked on countless weddings for the past 11 years. Outside of the wedding scene, Veluz is still their go-to designer, says Bong Sare, 1/3 guy of Threelogy. It’s not surprising then that the trio has established a high level of familiarity with the uber super staff of Veluz.

And it shows in the video. The video trio effortlessly coaxes personal memories from Veluz’s team and brings to light the love that abounds in this little busy workshop somewhere in Manila.

Threelogy’s film for the 2015 WaW Videofest centers on the amazing team behind the Veluz brand. Practically closing down the shop for one day, Threelogy set about to capture the inside scoop of Veluz as Boss. What comes out in the process is much more than what ace videographers set out to capture.

Bong himself muses on one particular sharing of Veluz’s staff, Sharon. He says, “I knew that Veluz is generous but that opinion has greatly increased after listening to one of her personnel share how much Veluz has helped her.”

The success of Veluz as a gown designer has long been the subject of admiration of people in and out of the wedding industry. But listening to the personal testimonies of her staff on camera, the people behind Veluz, the person and the brand, brings our high regard for her several notches up. What stands out in this hysterically funny and tearful film is the depth of Veluz’s heart. She cares deeply for her staff just as much as they care for her.

No wonder then that blessings come in boatloads for this Wonder Lady. Here’s Threelogy’s 2015 W@W Videofest film on Veluz. Bring out the tissues. You’ll need ‘em. Watch. Laugh. Cry.

Head over to their blog and read their thoughts on the vid too.
https://vimeo.com/128388236

W@W Videofest: Veluz by Ian Cruz

No matter how great the admiration of the public is of an artist’s work, it does not carry as much weight as the opinions of her peers. With friends an artist finds her hardest critics or her most loyal fans. While true that brides here and abroad rave about her gorgeous designs, we still can’t help but ponder on what Veluz’s colleagues in the wedding industry think of her.

Ian Cruz, a long-time W@W Videofest contributor, gathered 16 of Veluz’s closest friends in the business sans the designer, set them up in a studio with instructions to share their guiltless opinion of Veluz. Imagine a dinner get-together of several friends with the singular purpose of shamelessly talking about the one person who’s not in the room. Something like the “Gossip Girls and Guys of the Wedding Biz” kind-of-episode.

Ian’s goal as the film’s director was to capture the spontaneity and honesty of a “barkada’s kwentuhan.” To achieve this he set up several cameras around the groupie and clipped mics on each person so that no remark could escape. What happened next resulted in more than 2 hours of juicy material that had to be crammed into 15 short minutes.

Ian has been in the industry 11 years in total, counting his years as a member of Bob Nicolas’ team before putting up his own in 2009. Like most wedding videographers, Ian has long admired Veluz but from a safe distance. For Ian her reputation as a sought-after designer preceded her and made her seem unreachable. After the shoot, his impression of Veluz was forever changed. From listening to her friends talk about her with so much respect and working with her up close and personal, Ian learned that Veluz is all humble and real. In his words, “she lets her brand speak for itself but she doesn’t let any of her success get into her head”.

Insider views on Veluz abound in this film. So abandon all pretense and give in to the craving to eavesdrop. The 2015 W@W Videofest proudly brings you “Love for Veluz, One Superb Designer and Friend” by Ian Cruz.

https://vimeo.com/128738291

Behind the scenes:
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