Erik Chu and Karina Mantolino met at the birthday party of the woman who would eventually end up being one of their wedding sponsors. They were immediately comfortable with each other and it took the course of a friendship that became more. After four years, Erik took the relationship to the next level.
Karina, who is the owner of Regine’s Salon, was invited to the Peninsula Manila, purportedly to give a talk to the hotel staff on proper grooming. The whole event was a ruse set up by Erik. He popped the surprise proposal in one of the hotel’s boardrooms.
On the day of the wedding, those closest and dearest to Karina helped glam her up. Her trusted staff at the salon did her hair while dear friend Chinky Tanjangco did her makeup. The pattern on the dresses of the bridesmaids were all hand-drawn and printed on fabric by Denise Duong, one of the bridesmaids. The bride’s uncle Mel Meer of Bergamo provided the groom’s tuxedo. The whole wedding, grand as it was, had friends and family pitching in and giving it a more personal feel. A 20-piece orchestra played as she walked down the aisle.
The reception was held at Shangri-La at the Fort. A guest commented, “Of all the receptions I’ve been to at this venue, this has been the best so far.” Despite a guest list of 360, the occasion felt like an intimate event with the presence of their family and friends. David Celdran hosted the evening full of merriment and fun.
Bridal Gown by EZRA of Ezra Couture Dubai
Bride’s shoes by Manolo Blahnik
Bridesmaid’s dresses by David and Denise Duong of Arduo Studios
Groom’s tuxedo by Bergamo
Rings by Vie Nouvelle at the Peninsula Manila
Event Stylist: Robert Blancaflor
Cakes by AA Cake Design
Host: David Celdran
Caterer: Shangri-La at the Fort
Menu
Appetizer Duo de Fruits de Mer
Soup Potage Parmentier
1st Course Filet de Morue Poêlé
Palate cleanser Sorbet Thym-Citron
Main Course Carré D’Agneau
Dessert Mille-Feuille Framboise Pistache
