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| Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion |
It was one of the happiest weddings we’ve ever been to (and we’ve been to so many). The wedding ceremony of Joebert and Jen (Concepcion) Leonardia last Saturday afternoon at the Birhen sang Barangay Chapel at Santa Clara Subdivision was an intimate family affair with mostly family and close friends present.
Joebert looked so happy as he marched down the aisle with his parents Nene and Mellie Leonardia. The principal sponsors looked elegant in their rose pink gowns for the ladies and barong for the gents. Suddenly, there was a collective gasp of admiration from the crowd as the radiant bride appeared in her stunning wedding gown. She glided down the aisle while the violin played the haunting theme “For A Thousand Years” from the movie, “Twilight”. I noticed that this beautiful song seems to be the romantic favorite during weddings or any affair in town. Fr. Ruel Jundos officiated at the wedding mass and gave a most meaningful homily.
After the wedding ceremony, everyone trooped to L’Fisher Hotel where refreshing cocktails and canapés were served. Soon, the doors to La Proa were opened and guests oohed and aahed at the fabulous décor of the grand ballroom. Adding to the romantic ambience of roses, orchids and tiger lilies at each table were huge swaths of shimmering white cloths billowing from the ceiling highlighted by dramatic lights and the glow of chandeliers.
Seen among the guests was Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, a good friend of the groom’s brother Glenn. A musical fanfare was heard and the arrival of the newlyweds was met with rousing applause. After the prayer before meals, everyone enjoyed the delectable array of mouth-watering dishes specially prepared for the occasion.
The groom’s father Adolfo (Nene) gave a heartfelt speech where he spoke of the secret of a happy marriage: patience, humility, mutual understanding and most of all, love. This guy sure knows whereof he speaks, judging from the successful 45 years of his married life with wife, Mellie. There were other speeches from the best man, bride’s best friend, etc. Family members also rendered songs to the delight of the audience. Laughter and cheers could be heard during the brief audio-visual presentation showing the couple and their friends. Dancing and singing went on, nobody wanted to leave until past midnight.
To Joebert and Jen, we wish you all the happiness in your married life. Cheers!*
