Julien Bollozos and Patrick Orcino journey back to their roots for an enchanting and memorable wedding celebration in Camiguin island.
This is an excerpt from Lifestyle Asia’s September 2023 Issue.
Originally from Camiguin and Ilocos Norte respectively, Julien Bollozos and Patrick Orcino both migrated to England when they were teenagers. On one fateful weekend, while hanging out with friends in an arcade place named Trocadero in Piccadilly, the two met.
Though they didn’t think they would be interested in each other at first, all it took was one conversation that kept going through the night to realize they wanted to keep seeing each other. “That was the beginning of us knowing that there was this connection between us,” the couple tells Lifestyle Asia.
TO A LIFELONG ADVENTURE
Since they started dating at 17 years old, Patrick and Julien have spent over a decade traveling the world, going on coffee dates and hikes, and discovering their love for the sea. But before getting engaged, they each prioritized their own growth first while supporting each other on their individual journeys.
“I think this way we were able to commit to our relationship fully, as we already loved what we do separately,” Julien says. “Being secure with our own self was important so we can give our 100% to each other.”
For their eleventh anniversary, Patrick organized a weekend getaway to Cotswolds in central-southwest England. This wasn’t out of the ordinary and Julien thought it would be just like any of their other trips.
After strolling through spring flowers, the couple rested by a big lake during sunset. While preparing their tea and enjoying the picturesque view, Patrick kept insisting on taking a photo of Julien with her hand up. At the time, she didn’t understand why but acquiesced because she just wanted to get on with drinking her tea.
“While he took the photo, he got down on one knee and said ‘I will love you always, will you marry me?’” Julien recounts. “My jaw dropped as I was absolutely sure that this was just another normal weekend holiday. Of course, I said yes.”
ENDURING LOVE
On July 18, 2023, the couple returned to the Philippines to celebrate their wedding in Julien’s hometown. “We undoubtedly wanted to keep it intimate with the most important people in our lives,” they share. “We really appreciate the respect from our families and friends that granted our wishes.”
With a small wedding party, the couple was able to treat all their guests to a four-day getaway, touring them around Camiguin island. “We snorkeled at the sunken cemetery, took a rejuvenating dip in Tuasan falls, visited Mantigue island, and enjoyed fresh seafood for lunch or dinner.”
Seeing everyone enjoying the island Julien grew up in made all the planning and coordinating worth it. “The days before the wedding were really humbling as we experienced the beauty of the island, its simplicity and elegance, and the endless vast nature it offers to each and everyone of us,” the couple says.
Read more by purchasing a copy of the Lifestyle Asia September 2023 magazine via SariSari.shopping or select newsstands in National Bookstore and Fully Booked. Subscribe to the E-Magazine via Readly, Magzter, and Press Reader.
Bridal Gown by ENZOANI FROM JS COUTURE
Bride’s shoes from JIMMY CHOO
Hair by JAY AQUINO
Makeup by ANTHEA BUENO
Bridal robe by LOVE, MARRY COLLECTIONS
Groom’s suit by BIANCA CORDERO
Bridesmaids’ gowns by MAIDS TO MEASURE AND REWRITTEN
Entourage Make up by LEN ANAYA
Cake & Catering by NOUVEAU RESORT
Organizer: EVENTS BY AMANDA TIROL
Event Stylist: GIDEON HERMOSA
Stationery from INK SCRIBBLER
Video by AMAVI STUDIOS
Music by FRANCIS BALO AND DJ TOONS
Photos by JAJA SAMANIEGO
