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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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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W@W Videofest: Veluz by Notion in Motion

When a person finds her source of fulfillment, everything she does is cloaked with inspiration. In her family, Veluz finds her purpose. The wedding world knows her as the incredible talent, the designer with a knack for making any bride look her most beautiful on her wedding day. But above and beyond her public persona, for Veluz family is first.

This is what Leo and Rupert Nicolas of Notion in Motion capture in their film on Veluz for the 2015 WaW Videofest. The duo puts their video mojo to hard work in presenting a side of Veluz that most people don’t see. Using Veluz’s family members, Leo and Rupert present a personal perspective of this celebrated designer.

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Leo candidly shares that they were actually shocked when they were invited to be part of the WaW Videofest. But it was also a great privilege for them to be considered for this videofest. It was a validation that the team is truly a part of the WaW wedding community.

The youngest and newest videographer in this year’s batch, Leo comes from a family of videographers. His exposure to weddings began as a child, while tagging along with his father who was a wedding photographer. It is just fitting that Leo gets the challenge to do the feature on Veluz’s family because family connections is very strong for him. He and his four brothers are all in the wedding videography business. Leo’s partner in Notion in Motion is Rupert, the family’s youngest. Plus their Kuya Bob is also one of the videographers for the Veluz videofest. Kuya Bob is none other than ace videographer Bob Nicolas. Weddings, indeed, are about family.

Speaking of which, while most people strive to achieve the work-life balance, through this film one can learn from Veluz that attaining the balance is not really the priority. Her life is her family and they are the foundation on which everything she does, including work, stand on. Without her beautiful family, she is nothing.

For those who are still looking for purpose, we invite you to pause for a while and watch this film by Leo and Rupert Nicolas of Notion in Motion. Maybe we can learn a thing or two on what really should matter in life from the truly blessed artist that we fondly call Veluz.

Directed and produced by Leo Nicolas and Rupert Nicolas

Narrated by Atom Ungson

Written by Miles Trinidad

Director of Photography: Struan Wallace, Rupert Nicolas

Project Manager: Jocel Nicolas, Juliane Nicolas

Cameraman:
Albert Nicolas
Carlo Naval
Dennis Trinidad
Ghe Consolacion

Visual Effects:
Raeden Toribio
Raewyn Toribio

Make-up Artist:
Ten Franco
Seka Mojal

Models:
Michelle Panemanglor
Emerald Villahermosa
Lou Muñoz

Set Design: Tipping Point Collective

Lights Equipment: Sherman So

Edited by Leo Nicolas

Production Assistant:
Jemson Cuyugan
Jim Felix
Aljohn Sejismundo

Special Thanks
Threelogy
Bob and Lette Nicolas
Gercel Vallao
Veluz’s Family
W@W Videofest

W@W Videofest: Veluz by Bob Nicolas

The road to success is a tale just as fascinating as the success itself. The story of how a person struggled to live out her passion is often a beautifully poignant journey of finding one’s personal greatness.

For the W@W Videofest, Veluz, the country’s most sought after wedding gown designer today, opened her life story to Bob Nicolas. The second of the six-part videofest delves into how Veluz nurtured her dream of becoming a designer. With the help of Veluz’s friends, husband and wife tandem Bob and Lette Nicolas masterfully retraced the steps back to when the dream started for Veluz.

What stands out in this film is the way Veluz’s story was told. It’s amazing how Bob weaves the thread through the numerous interviews, picking out the most salient parts and organizing them into a storyline that flows effortlessly. It’s almost like how Veluz creates her intricate designs, bead by bead– for Bob, talking head by talking head.

This isn’t the first time that Bob and Lette have been on the same path as Veluz. They have worked together on so many weddings in the past several years already. But on this walk Lette realizes what she admires most in Veluz. That no matter how successful she has become, Veluz has remained down-to-earth and real.

And it shows in how Veluz has touched the lives of her brides. Watch and find out what moves a bride, in whatever part of the world she may be, to proudly say “I am a Veluz bride”.

The 2015 W@W Videofest proudly presents “The History of Veluz” by Bob Nicolas.

https://vimeo.com/128656792

And for what went behind the scenes, check this out:

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WaW Veluz Bob Nicolas Behind the Scenes1

Credits:
Bob Nicolas
Albert Nicolas
Dindo David
Myther Ganibe
Fidel Galapia
Benjo Borja
Let Nicolas
Gerz Vallao
Ernest Pascual
Leo Nicolas
Marvi de Guzman
Mimi Abesamis
Mervin Gobaco

W@W Videofest: Veluz by Cinemaworks

Whoever said that film festivals only happen in Cinemalaya, or Cannes, Venice or even New York was dead wrong. No need to travel far. In fact, there’s one videofest worth going to. I’m talking about none other than the W@W Videofest, another pioneering project of WeddingsAtWork.

It was back in 2009 in celebration of W@W’s 10th anniversary when John and Benz Rana rallied five of their wedding videographer-friends to create videos about W@W. This was a huge departure from their usual wedding coverage. It was big challenge for the original 5 videographers to produce videos that forced them out of their box and test their creative mettle.

Two years later the second W@W Videofest was organized which also featured 5 of the country’s leading videographers but this time with a different theme. A certain videographer had been making waves in the international scene with his distinctive style and artistic savvy. His brand of creativity amazed the world. To celebrate his genius and massive global influence, the 2011 W@W Videofest centered on long-time W@W friend, Jason Magbanua.

This year the spotlight has shifted focus to another genius, to the most sought after wedding gown designer in the Philippines today. Last Tuesday W@W hosted the 2015 W@W Videofest featuring Veluz. Six videographers put their imaginative minds to work and crafted 6 amazing videos on Veluz.

In the next few days we will be featuring each of the 6 videographers whose artistic works provided the world with a 360 degree view of the Queen of the Aisle, Veluz.

We begin with the videographer who opened this year’s W@W Videofest, Marvi de Guzman of Cinemaworks. According to Mimma Benz, it was actually Marvi who started the ball rolling for the recently concluded videofest when, in November last year, he posted on his Facebook account how much he had missed the W@W Videofest.

Prior to his Videofest debut, Marvi has been around the wedding scene for some time but he stayed mostly behind the scene, in the editing room, to be more exact. His interest in filmmaking has led him to dabble in indie films until seven years ago when he decided to make the jump and put up his own wedding videography outfit, Cinemaworks.

I chatted with Marvi right before the screening and he shared that he had initial reservations about being part of the group of videomakers chosen for this videofest. But he had always wanted to be part of the project. So he rolled up his sleeves and got to work.

Marvi’s film is a showcase of his cinematic style. A huge fan of French filmmaker Bruno Avellian, an award winning director of film shorts and international commercials, Marvi’s visual language is dark and moody. His interpretation of the world of Veluz is cast in dramatic shadows and brilliant color grading. To complete his masterpiece, Marvi sought the help of sound designer Willan Rivera, who created the film’s haunting soundtrack.

Like most wedding suppliers, Marvi has nothing but admiration for Veluz and her work. He did admit to being intimidated by her at first. But in the course of producing his Veluz film, Marvi got to know the person behind the name. Early impressions soon faded away to be replaced by more admiration for Veluz. When asked what was the one thing he admired most about Veluz, his answer was her focus. From Veluz, Marvi takes with him the advice not to give up even if the times get tough.

W@W Videofest invites you to watch “Trouve” by Marvi de Guzman.

“Trouvé” – Veluz from Cinemaworks Wedding Art Film on Vimeo.

Here are some behind-the-scenes of Trouve:
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Credits:
A film by John Marvi de Guzman
Model Julia Lazareva
Co Director Chuck Ronquillo
Script Writer Nina Comsti
Director of Photography Aris Magayanes
Gaffer Benjie Philip
Sound design Willan Rivera
Co Producer Ian Celis
Make Up Gery Penaso
Set Design Lia Villanueva
Production / Light Assistants Joemarly Inguito and Remark Nabong

A Look Back at “W@W Videofest Presents Jason Magbanua” by Bob Nicolas

Getting married or not, all humanity knows his name. Jason Magbanua. Like most ultra-famous Pinoys, Jason has his own kind of star. He is the indisputable “VideoStar.” But no matter how bright he shines, there is always that time before now when he was just a regular guy trying to find his place in the world.

Fellow wedding videographer Bob Nicolas presents a superb recollection of Jason’s life, when he was “just Jason.” Seen through the eyes of people who knew him long before the fame arrived–his family, his colleagues and close friends–Bob deftly works the intricate details of Jason’s legendary rise through the years. Yes, let us mention here that Bob unearthed quite a few interesting pictures and videos of Jason in his “youth.” *wink*

Admired across the planet by video enthusiasts in and out of the wedding world, pursued by brides with a desperation that makes grooms go hmmmmm, Jason is undeniably an enigma. There is more than passion than burns inside this man. He is making history. The guy has superhuman powers.

And that swagger. Completely effortless. Remember, he has made it to Manila’s Best Dressed List. So, if you want to know how legends are made, watch and learn.

https://vimeo.com/21025007

A Look Back at “W@W Videofest Presents Jason Magbanua” by Ian Cruz

Say Philippine wedding videography and what comes next? You got it! Jason Magbanua. So much has been said about this genius, from his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise to international stardom. Jason singlehandedly placed the Philippines on the global videography scene. All hail the Master!

Still, there is more to the man everyone calls the “Boss.” Who better to give insider info on the guy than the people in his inner circle, the Jason Magbanua Team?

Created for the W@W Videofest on Jason Magbanua in 2011 by then budding videographer Ian Cruz, this tribute to the Boss is light yet sincere, informative but candid. The stars of the film are the people you never see in front of the camera yet they pulled off their film debut like pros.

Ian Cruz, for his part as director, pulls off a Brian de Palma-ish styled video (read: nosebleed) on his idol. You can actually dub his amazing work as “The Film about the Boss, according to His Team Made by a Fan in a Single Take.”

Whew! At the time of this project, Ian was still a diamond in the rough. Today he is a well-respected videographer, who has earned his own stripes through sheer hard work and creativity. No surprise on his success. After all, he learned from the Boss.

https://vimeo.com/21053836

2015 W@W Videofest Happening on May 19

The 2015 W@W Videofest is happening on May 19! We present to you six of the country’s finest videographers to bring the magic of Veluz. Enjoy!

Photos shot by MangoRed Studios
Graphic Layout by Electro Lychee

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A Look Back at W@W Videofest by Phoeben and Mango Red

For the third installment of our W@W Videofest Throwback, we proudly bring back the hilarious collaboration of videoman Phoeben Tecson and the comical duo behind Mango Red, Ryan and Randall.

During the filming of this video, the pair was just new to the Manila wedding scene but has already made a name for themselves in their home province. Phoeben, a long time W@W supplier, presents a quirky take on W@W and its purpose with a parody of the hit movie “Forrest Gump.”

Since the release of this short film Phoeben has gone on to capture countless love stories of W@Wies. Ryan and Randall, on the other hand, decided to abandon their dreams of becoming movie stars in favor of becoming rock stars…of the photography world.

Six years after their film debut, Mango Red rekindles their W@W connection by lending their superstar skills to the shoot of the Veluz Videofest posters.

But for now, it’s time to watch and laugh. Enjoy!

A Look Back at W@W Videofest by Jason Magbanua

If there’s one thing that can be said about W@W throughout its existence, it’s that friendships abound here. It’s like a big slumber party where wishes and secrets are exchanged. No judgments here, only honest conversations and sincere sharing.

Master videographer Jason Magbanua skillfully captures the bride vibe in this video. Jason, the ultimate W@W “slasher” meaning supplier/star/christmaspartyhost/friend/adviser/supporter/etc/plusmore, knows the pulse of the groupie really well, having been around them for as long as he has been in business. Putting all that together results in a candid and genuine vid. Must watch!

https://vimeo.com/3106246

2015 W@W Videofest: Veluz

 

W@W 2015 Veluz VideofestGirls don’t want to be just any bride. They want to be a Veluz Bride. “It’s a girl thing,” as Veluz herself puts in. For several years now Veluz has made so many of these dreams come true with her awesome creations. She seems to weave magic into every piece she makes. When the bride and  gown come together, an inexplicable radiance emanates. We’ve heard of the “bride’s glow,” right? For Veluz Brides, the gown plays a huge part in creating that aura.

Veluz is known for her attention to detail. Whether it’s perfecting that flower embroidery or the precise position of a crystal on a swirl, her craftsmanship is impeccable. But more than the dexterity she possesses, what makes her gowns a standout is her ability to make the gown and the bride one with each other. Veluz has the gift to make the gown bring out the true beauty of the bride wearing it. She does this by listening to the person, to that little girl in every bride who has nurtured her dream of becoming the princess bride for so long.

By freeing herself from any prejudices, Veluz allows the beauty of the bride to flow, captures it and translates into artistic flourishes in lace, embroidery, pearls and crystals. That is why whenever a Veluz Bride finally steps into her gown, she feels totally herself. Like coming to one’s self but this time more beautiful.

It is the Veluz magic that the 2015 W@W Videofest celebrates. W@W has invited six of the finest videographers in the country today to capture the enigma of Veluz in their short films. Each filmmaker presents a unique angle of this talented designer. An artist paying tribute to a fellow artist. This May W@W Videofest proudly presents world-class bridal gown designer, the Queen of the Aisle, Veluz.

A Look Back at W@W Videofest by Threelogy

Six years ago when W@W hosted the first-ever W@W Videofest, they turned to long-time W@W friend, Threelogy, to create the first video. Having been among the numerous wedding suppliers that owe their beginnings to W@W, Threelogy eagerly jumped at the opportunity.

The short film skillfully captures how the W@W Community has helped suppliers start their careers in the wedding industry. Talking heads of now well-established suppliers share their W@W stories and the special bond they have with the community. So, take a breather and enjoy this video by Threelogy.

Bob Nicolas opens W@W VideoFest – BIO: Jason Magbanua


MangoRed on Bob Nicolas

“Watch this video and you will truly find out who I am at my core.  I was near tears in most parts.  But I could see my mom already dabbing her eyes.  I appreciate the hard work in the research and the voluminous interviews.  This is one thing I will leave my kids with as a legacy.  Uncle Bob did this!”

-Jason Magbanua