Barong Tagalog

Barong Tagalog (or simply barong, from the word baro) is an embroidered formal garment of the Philippines. Made from jusi or hand woven piña. It is very lightweight and worn untucked, over an undershirt. It is a common wedding and formal attire for Filipino men as well as women. The term "barong tagalog" literally means "a dress that is Tagalog", or "a Tagalog dress" in the Filipino Language.

The Barong Tagalog gained his real national prestige after president Quezon, the first Filipino president, declared the Barong Tagalog "the National dress". So, the Barong Tagalog evolved from the pre-Hispanic became officially a symbol of the Filipinos' resistance to colonization.

A Buyer's Guide to Barong

Most women have always dreamed about getting married in a church ceremony. While very charming, the only drawback to this is that it required a male presence in the church to get the party started.

Should you be the male, approach the event like you would your crowning moment – whether your definition of a crowning moment is an inauguration or a public execution. Either way, the barong tagalog is always the best choice for occasions like this.

Given the Philippines’ tempestuous climate, the barong tagalog will always be the formal outfit of choice, whether for a typical business day or attending a formal outdoor ceremony. Try wearing a coat and tie to work every day in the summer heat and you’ll see what I mean. Likewise, try waiting for your bride outdoors decked out in a three-piece suit.

Of course, appealing to plain nationalism won’t do the trick, as this is not a matter of picking one off the rack. To get married in a barong tagalog (or to bear witness at a wedding) means that you have taken the great responsibility of looking good, Filipino-style.

A Short History
According to many historians, the design of the barong tagalog and the choice of the material were considered a means of subjugation by Spain during the colonial era. The barong tagalog was an offshoot of a Spanish mandate that Filipino businessmen wear a formal suit but of a lesser degree in quality to theirs, and that the same should be made of transparent material to ensure that the Indios wouldn’t dream of hiding some weapons underneath. In addition, Filipinos of that era were allegedly instructed to keep their formal wear untucked to denote their lower status. Historically, keeping the shirt untucked is common sense for the warm Filipino weather. The designer of the barong, God bless his/her soul, wisely chose to consider this fact when he/she came up with the original design.

Of course, there is little evidence to back this particular theory, as we have yet to unearth an archive of dress codes from the Spanish era regarding the wearing of the barong tagalog. Besides, we can see old photos of our national heroes in western clothing—impeccably tucked and trousered.

Office or Occasion
Of course, when wearing barongs, there is a world of difference between the standard office barong and the formal event barong , so one should never wear one in lieu of the other. If you think wearing an office barong to a formal event is a fashion faux pas, think about your mates’ reaction when you show up for work in a piña-jusi ensemble.

Office barongs tend to be made from polyester and other synthetic fibers and tend to be totally opaque instead of transparent. Embroidery is more or less limited to the office logo and a few token designs. Popular among executives is the wearing of barong tagalogs made from the material called "gusot-mayaman." Composed of linen, "gusot-mayaman" is the easiest way to look like you’ve had a busy day.

Grooming for the Groom

For the formal barongs, only jusi and piña cloth will do. Jusi used to be made from abaca or banana fiber, but silk organza is now the preferred material. Mechanically woven, jusi is stronger and more durable. Piña, however, is the last word for ultra-formal barongs. Woven from pineapple leaves to create superfine fibers, piña cloth is thinner, softer, and much shinier than jusi. The embroidery of a piña barong is more impressive to look at.

Type of Cloth Used

• White Jusi fabric - has been developed in response to the demand for pure white, elegant fabric for the modern groom's wedding Barong.
• Piña fabric - is hand-loomed from pineapple leaf fibers. And because Piña weavers in the Philippines are dwindling, it's scarcity makes the delicate Piña cloth expensive and is thus used for very formal events.
• Jusi fabric - is mechanically woven and was once made from abacca or banana silk.
• Banana fabric - is another sheer fabric used in formal occasions. Made and hand woven from banana fiber, it usually comes with geometric design details. This fabric hails from the Visayas island of Negros.
• Piña-Jusi fabric - is the latest barong fabric that just came out of the market and is gaining much popularity. With the sheerness of pineapple fibers and the strength of the jusi fiber, this "new" fabric blend offers the market the same formality needed on special occasions at a more reasonable price range.

Barong Decorative Details

• Hand embroidery
• Machine embroidery
• Computerized embroidery
• Hand painting
• Pintucks (alforza)
• Lace-inserts/appliques

Here is some advice for choosing a barong for your wedding:

• Always go for a custom-fitted barong. A ready-to-wear (RTW) version is the last resort of the hopeless. Men’s bodies are an assorted lot, and it would be an extremely long shot for you to hope that you can get a barong tagalog that fits exactly right. Always look at the fit at the shoulders and the cuffs; these should be perfectly snug. Any difference, however slight, will be obvious and ugly.

• When deciding between piña and jusi, have the male entourage (never mind the godfathers—at their age, they’re entitled to wear what they want) wear jusi, and reserve the piña version for the groom. This not only saves money, but creates a distinction for the groom. Since it’s his day, it’s only fitting - he deserves a spot above the rest. (After that, he’ll have to learn to defer to the wife the rest of his married life).

• When selecting the type of embroidery for your barong, try and restrain yourself from selecting overly intricate patterns. Apart from the conventional wisdom that anything in excess is bad, I have witnessed one too many scenes when the delicate piña barong ripped prior to the ceremony due to the undulations of the anxious wearer. Too much needlework can speed up the half-life of this delicate clothing.

• Put on the barong only at the last moment, prior to getting married. Seat belts, automatic doors, and drinks can invariably reduce the delicate barong to a mess, so covering it and placing it on a hanger in your car on the way to the church makes sense.
  

Cost Centers
Plenty of haberdasheries and tailoring shops can be found all over the country, and the tailors will be more than happy to show you their cloth selection and take your measurements on the spot. In some cases, their services may be cheaper than buying an RTW barong.

Those abroad, while limited with their choices, almost always get their clothes from the Internet. Sites like mybarong.com offer a plethora of choices and can deliver barongs for both infants and giants. Smart Pinoys can always ask their friends or relatives to ship them the cloth instead, or shop around during their next visit home. Surely a little piña or jusi hunting will be worth the trip, and any professional tailor back home can create a masterpiece custom-fitted to their liking.

Weddings come once in a lifetime (in most cases), and since everybody has to defer the title of "most handsome guy" to you for a day, get a barong and make the most out of this privilege.

***Source: Manila Bulletin Online

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Pre-Wedding Rituals

Pinoy Pre-Wedding Rituals in Modern Times

The good news is that the days of pikot (shotgun marriage) and kasunduan (arranged marriage) — where both the bride and groom had no choice but to comply with the parents’ wishes are long gone.

The bad news: harana (suitor’s serenade) is mostly unheard of and ligawan (courtship) is simply reduced to dating. Love letters these days are just regular emails and SMS messages that took a little longer to compose. So when do constant dates officially make a couple? Decades ago, a girl may be expected to say ‘Yes’ first just so the guy would know that she liked him too. Nowadays, well, they just know.

While Filipino courtship rituals are going the way of the dinosaurs, the rituals for engagements and pre-weddings remain pretty much the same, except for some modern tweaking in keeping with the times. Despite these, the basic essence remains: sincere intentions, respect to elders and spiritual devotion. Read on.

Pagtatapat

Marriage Proposal without popping the actual question

They say that no woman wants to be married without first being asked. But do Filipino men really know how to propose? If so, why does the phrase “Pakakasalan mo ba ako?” (Will you marry me?) sounds more like a threat than a proposal? Popping the question is a totally Western concept that seems out of place within serious Filipino relationships where marriage is often a matter of ‘when’ rather than ‘if’. For Pinoys, “Pakasal na tayo!” (Let’s get married!) seem to be the more likely proposition. Quite rightly, as proposal literally means a presentation of some plan; so asking should be out of the question. Looks like we got it right.

Singsing / Paghingi ng Kamay
The Engagement Ring as dowry

A ring symbolizes such a deeper commitment that your average Pinoy will avoid this as a gift to a girlfriend early in the relationship to avoid sending the wrong signal. The engagement ring concept is likewise a Western influence, but its local adaptation is a consequence of practicality rather than colonial mentality. The giving of the ring is actually a scaled-down version of our forefather’s offering of dote/bigay-kaya (dowry) to his future wife (and her family) to signify his intentions. It is a symbolic gift for her acceptance to the asking of her hand in marriage (paghingi ng kamay).

The most popular choice for a ‘rock’ is the diamond. But some traditional and sentimental Filipino families may insist on having their son offer a treasured family heirloom as an engagement ring to symbolize his family’s approval and her acceptance into their family. In such case, it would be best to present the ring as a highlight of the pamanhikan.

Pamanhikan
The (often awkward) meeting of two families

The blueprints of wedding plans are drawn or made known during this occasion. The pamanhikan is often hosted by the bride’s family as the groom and his folks visit them to formally ask their daughter’s hand in marriage and discuss plans for the upcoming wedding over lunch or dinner. This can be an uneasy situation if it’s the first time for both parties to meet. The soon-to-weds may feel a little awkward (nervous even) seeing and listening to their parents consult each other on matters like their wedding budget, guest list and the like.

It is customary that the visiting family bring a gift (often, the best home-cooked specialty of the groom’s mom) for the hosts. Others may opt to hold the meeting on neutral grounds (a restaurant is a likely choice) or invite a mutual acquaintance to the gathering and help ease the awkwarness of the first meeting. Why do Pinoys bother with all the trouble? We all seek our parents’ blessings for a happy and trouble-free marriage. Afterall, pamanhikan is a treasured Filipino heritage which, first and foremost, avoids the embarrassing situation of having the parents see each other as strangers come wedding day.

Paninilbihan
Laboring for a family’s approval

Paninilbihan is said to be a long-forgotten tradition where the suitor performs some daunting chores for the bride’s family to show his worth, fortitude and responsibility. Tasks like pagsibak ng kahoy (firewood chopping) or pag-igib ng tubig (water fetching) come to mind. But this ritual is still sub-consciously practiced in these modern times, only on a much simpler scale (thank goodness!).

As Filipinos parents prefer the boyfriend to pay a visit to their daugther in their house rather than date elsewhere, he is considered as an unofficial part of the household rather than a mere guest. Thus, it comes as no surprise when family members ask simple favors from him such as driving the girlfriend’s mother to the supermarket or replacing a busted light in the kitchen. Come to think of it, future sons- or daughters-in-law are expected to run some simple errands for their would-be-in-laws if he/she seeks their approval. These little favors form part of the paninilbihan process still deeply imbibed in the Filipino psyche.

Pa-alam
Wedding announcements, Filipino style

The practice of pa-alam (to inform) should not be confused with the Pilipino term "paalam” (goodbye). Though less formal than the pamanhikan, pa-alam is another gesture appreciated by Filipino elders as a sign of respect. Basically, the practice is just a round of casual diplomatic visits and ‘courtesy calls’ to people who matter most to the couple (usually elder relatives in the province). The spouse-to-be is introduced to the people visited and informed of the impending wedding to secure their blessings. Couples may choose to do this at a family reunion while handing over the wedding invitations to save on trips. This is also the period when soon-to-weds visit their prospective ninongs or ninangs (godparents/principal sponsors) for the wedding and it is customary to bring a little something for the person visited (a basket of fruits is a popular choice).

Since the ‘major hurdle’ is over and done with after the pamanhikan, pa-alam should be a breeze. Couples should remain patient though as some elders may ask them to recount their love story, give a litany about married life, or ask the groom-to-be about his line of work and family background.

Dulog

Meeting a ‘father’ other than the future spouse’s

The term “dulog” literally means “approach.” This is the time were soon-to-weds approach their parish priest for a meeting. In the past, this was done in reverence to the priest who served as a “father” to either the bride- or groom-to-be. It was once considered a necessary visit especially when the future spouse is somebody unfamiliar or from outside the parish.

Presently, dulog (Canonical/pre-nuptial interview) is a church requirement where the parish priest discusses with the couple their duties and responsibilities as husband and wife. The interview also serves the purpose of finding any possible impediments to the impending union and determining the couple’s readiness to wed and knowledge about the doctrines of a Catholic marriage. This visit will be a good time to ask the priest whatever questions they may have related to the upcoming church wedding.

Despedida de Soltera
A wholesome bachelorette party

The despedida de soltera (literally, goodbye to spinsterhood) is a send-off party held close to the wedding date in honor of the bride-to-be and hosted by her family. This celebrates her family’s consent and blessings for the upcoming union. The groom and his family, the wedding entourage, close friends & relatives from both sides are all invited to meet and get to know one another before the big day. The occasion may serve as the formal introduction of the two families/clans to each other. This affair can be anything from a formal sit-down dinner to a casual get-together party.

Alay-Itlog kay Sta. Clara
Rain, rain go away!

Although rain showers on the wedding day itself are believed to bring bountiful blessings to a newly married couple, many still prefer a bright and sunny wedding day. But rain is something mere mortals can’t control, so what do Pinoys do? Seek God’s help through the intercession of a Saint by offering eggs. Despite its pagan origins, marrying Catholic Pinoys still troop to the monastery of Sta. Clara in Katipunan Ave. to offer eggs to the patron saint and request the cloistered nuns to pray that their wedding day be rain-free.

Sta. Clara, eggs, rain - what’s the connection? St.Claire has long been considered a patron saint of good weather because her name in Spanish (clara) means clear, like the brightening of sky after a storm. The patroness’ link with eggs came about as her name (clara [de huevo]) is the Spanish for ‘egg white’. That became the basis why the residents of Obando, Bulacan believed in offering eggs at the base of the altar of Sta. Clara to pray for good weather. But we suggest that soon-to-weds consider other offerings (food, fruits or monetary) for even our beloved nuns know too well that an egg too many means cholesterol overload!

Kasal Kumpisal
Coming ‘clean’ before the ceremony

This is more of a moral obligation than a tradition required by the Church of every marrying Catholic couple. A few days prior the wedding, soon-to-weds are asked to have their final confessions with a priest as single individuals since they will partake in the bread and share the wine (symbolic of the Body and Blood of Christ) during the Nuptial Mass. The confessions serve as a spiritual cleansing for the sins committed prior to the Sacrament of Marriage and a commitment & devotion to one’s lifetime partner.

***Source: WeddingsAtWork {w@w}

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Wedding Culture

The Engagement

After the couple has decided to marry, the first order of business is the pamanhikan, where the groom and his parents visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage. Wedding plans are often made at this time, including a discussion of the budget and guest list. Don't be surprised if the groom-to-be is expected to run some errands or help out around the bride's house. This tradition is called paninilbihan, where the suitor renders service to his future wife's family to gain their approval.

The Wedding Outfits

The white wedding dress has become popular in the last hundred years or so with America's influence in the Philippines. Before that, brides wore their best dress, in a festive color or even stylish black, to celebrate a wedding. Orange blossom bouquets and adornments were a must during the turn of the last century. For men, the barong tagalog is the traditional Filipino formal wear. It is a cool, almost transparent, embroidered shirt, made from silky pina or jusi, two native ecru fabrics. It is worn untucked, over black pants, with a white t-shirt underneath. These days, a Filipino American groom might wear the conventional black tux, but Filipino male wedding guests will usually show up in their finest barongs.

The Ceremony

In pre-colonial days, a wedding ceremony lasted three days. On the first day, the bride and groom were brought to the house of a priest or babaylan, who joined their hands over a plate of raw rice and blessed the couple. On the third day, the priest pricked the chests of both bride and groom and drew a little blood. Joining their hands, they declared their love for each other three times. The priest then fed them cooked rice from the same plate and gave them a drink of some of their blood mixed with water. Binding their hands and necks with a cord, he declared them married. The majority of Filipino weddings are now Catholic weddings, but some native traditions remain. Most have special "sponsors" who act as witnesses to the marriage. The principal sponsors could be godparents, counselors, a favorite uncle and aunt, even a parent. Secondary sponsors handle special parts of the ceremony, such as the candle, cord and veil ceremonies. Candle sponsors light two candles, which the bride and groom use to light a single candle to symbolize the joining of the two families and to invoke the light of Christ in their married life. Veil sponsors place a white veil over the bride's head and the groom's shoulders, a symbol of two people clothed as one. Cord sponsors drape the yugal (a decorative silk cord) in a figure-eight shape--to symbolize everlasting fidelity--over the shoulders of the bride and groom. The groom gives the bride 13 coins, or arrhae, blessed by the priest, as a sign of his dedication to his wife's well-being and the welfare of their future children.

The Food

The Filipino wedding feast is elaborate. One feast celebrated at the turn of the last century involved these foods: First was served cold vermicelli soup. The soup was followed by meats of unlimited quantity--stewed goat, chicken minced with garlic, boiled ham, stuffed capon, roast pork and several kinds of fish. There were no salads, but plenty of relishes, including red peppers, olives, green mango pickles and crystallized fruits. For dessert, there were meringues, baked custard flan, coconut macaroons and sweetened seeds of the nipa plant.

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Filipino Wedding Superstitions

Many Filipinos (like most people in the world) adhere to numerous folk beliefs and superstitions. Some are practiced primarily because of an “there's nothing to lose if we comply” attitude while others are totally ignored for they seem downright ridiculous. Here are some of the Filipino wedding superstitions:

1. Brides shouldn't try on their wedding dress before the wedding day or the wedding will not push through.

2. Knives and other sharp and pointed objects are said to be a bad choice for wedding gifts for this will lead to a broken marriage.

3. Giving arinola (chamberpot) as wedding gift is believed to bring good luck to newlyweds.

4. Altar-bound couples are accident-prone and therefore must avoid long drives or traveling before their wedding day for safety.

5. The groom who sits ahead of his bride during the wedding ceremony will be a henpecked husband.

6. If it rains during the wedding, it means prosperity and happiness for the newlyweds.

7. A flame extinguished on one of the wedding candles means the one on which side has the unlit candle, will die ahead of the other.

8. Throwing rice confetti at the newlyweds will bring them prosperity all their life.

9. The groom must arrive before the bride at the church to avoid bad luck.

10. Breaking something during the reception brings good luck to the newlyweds.

11. The bride should step on the groom's foot while walking towards the altar if she wants him to agree to her every whim.

12. A bride who wears pearls on her wedding will be an unhappy wife experiencing many heartaches and tears.

13. Dropping the wedding ring, the veil or the arrhae during the ceremony spells unhappiness for the couple.

14. In early Filipino custom, the groom-to-be threw his spear at the front steps of his intended's home, a sign that she has been spoken for. These days, a ring suffices as the symbol of engagement.

15. It is considered bad luck for two siblings to marry on the same year.

16. An unmarried woman who follows the footsteps (literally) of the newlyweds will marry soon.

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Church Wedding Requirements

Baptismal and Confirmation Certificates: these are for both the bride and the groom. These must be new copies and must have an annotation: "FOR MARRIAGE PURPOSES ONLY" and must have been secured not more than three (3) months before the date of marriage.

Marriage License: can be secured from the city or municipality hall of either the bride or the groom.

For those who are civilly married, a certified true photocopy of the Marriage Contract with register number of the city or town where the marriage was performed must be submitted one week before the wedding date.

Canonical Interview: this interview with the bride and the groom will be done one month before the wedding date and will be done by the parish priest or his assistant. The schedule of the interview will be given upon the signing of the application form. Failure to report on the interview date or failure to notify the office of any change in the schedule will mean cancellation of the application and reservation.

Pre-Marriage Seminar: both the bride and the groom have to attend this. The schedule for the seminar will be given during the canonical interview or you may inquire at the parish office. Some churches will allow you to attend other pre-wedding seminars such as the Catholic Engaged Encounter or Discovery Weekend. (Note: if you have already attended either one of these, inquire at the parish office if they recognize these weekend seminars in lieu of the parish's seminar.)

Permission: permit from the parish of the bride must be secured and presented to the parish office of the chosen ceremony venue (form will be provided for by the parish office of your selected church.)

Wedding Banns: these will be provided during the canonical interview and have to be immediately brought to the respective parishes of the bride and the groom for posting. These have to be returned to the office after three Sundays. (Note: the respective parishes may ask some requirements for the posting of the banns [i.e. a picture each from the bride and the groom]).

List of names and addresses of principal sponsors (Ninongs & Ninangs): this has to be submitted to the parish office one week before the wedding date. Church policy requires at least a pair of sponsors and, ideally, a maximum of six sponsors.

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Application For Marriage License

Marriage License – is a requirement for either a Civil or Church wedding to be held in the Philippines.

There is a prescribed 10 - days waiting period from the filing of applications to the release of the marriage license, which is valid anywhere in the country for 120 days after the issuance of the license.

The "Application Form" for a marriage license must be secured at the Local Civil Registrar from the city, town or municipality where either the bride or the groom habitually resides. The personal appearance of those getting married is required in applying for a marriage license.

Birth Certificate: Certified True Copy required of each the contracting parties with the respective registry number. This document is issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO). Which can now be applied for online through the NSO web site: http://www.census.gov.ph/

Parents' Consent (for 18 - 21 years old) or Parents' Advice (for 21 - 25 years old: Under Philippine Law, the legal age for marriage is 18. If the contracting parties are between the ages of 18 and 21, they must present written consent to the marriage from their father, mother or legal guardian. While any contracting party, between the age of 22 and 25 must present written parental advice, i.e., a written indication that the parents are aware of the couple's intent to marry.

Certificate of Attendance in a Pre-Marital Counseling and Family Planning Seminar: Conducted by the Division of Maternal and Child Health at the Municipal / City Hall in the same municipality or city where the contracting parties applied for the marriage license.

Also needed to secure the marriage license are an NSO - Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR), a residence certificate, and passport - sized picture.

To guide you further, you may refer to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page on marrige provided by the Philippine Government: http://www.gov.ph

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Tying the Knot, Filipino Style

Drop the words "Filipiniana-themed wedding" and instantly, images straight from the classic Noli Me Tangere come to mind. Historic churches in Intramuros, quaint banderitas and a luscious buffet spread of lechon, pansit and a colorful assortment of kakanin capture the quintessential "Pinoy" celebration.

We Filipinos, after all, are known around the world for our unique and heartwarming brand of merrymaking… which is why couples to this day, do opt to celebrate their marriage in true Filipino fashion. Whether the theme is evident in the abaca giveaways or the bamboo centerpieces, the rondalla that serenades the guests or the traditional kundimans, couples today can have an authentically Pinoy touch to their weddings in more ways than one.

The trick is to remember that while "Filipino" does include all the superficial detailing that goes into wedding planning—the gown, the souvenirs, the food—it reaches far deeper than that. A Filipino wedding… regardless of its décor or its faithfulness to the traditions of old, becomes truly Filipino when it is planned with the same fun, fervor, passion and love for family that goes into our multi-faceted culture.

PICK A THEME:

Choosing Filipiniana as your wedding’s basic theme is only a starting point. Think of it as a basic, all-around theme that you’ve got to narrow down. Remember that the more specialized and specific your theme is, the more personal the feel of your wedding will be.

Period-centric. The Filipiniana look has evolved as a consequence of our country’s colorful history. A Turn of the Century wedding, for example, would have you drawing inspiration from icons from Rizal’s time—a Maria Clara inspired wedding gown patterned out of embroidered piña, capiz shell lamps in an outdoor garden reception, are just a few images based on that period. A Pinoy Pop wedding on the other hand could leave you with images of a sorbetero stand at the reception, a fun, acapella, Ryan Cayabyab-style arrangement for your songs or even kitschy candies such as Orange Sweets, Tarzan gum and Choc-nut scattered all over your guests’ tables.

Province-centric. You could opt to base your wedding on your province’s traditions. If you’re running out of unique menu ideas, think about the fare your region’s known for. Bicolanos, for example, can give away pili rolls, while Batangueños could wrap some barako beans as wedding souvenirs. Even hors d’oeuvres can be inspired by what province you come from—those from Laguna can serve kesong puti snacks.

Invitations Say It All: Invitations primarily supply your guests with the who’s what’s and where’s of your wedding. Apart from that, they clue those in attendance about what to expect on the day itself—a formal 300-guest sit-down dinner scenario, or an intimate no-holds-barred garden party? Your invites are a great way to seal the Filipiniana stamp on your wedding. They’re the perfect venue to tell everyone who’s invited that your theme is "going local!"

Handmade or recycled paper is usually associated with the Filipiniana theme. Mix these neutral, natural colors up with a bright graphic, or a splash of color to liven up the look.

Accessorize with textured materials such as weaves (banig), raffia or twine, shells, sand or even dried flowers.

Dig up your archives for old photographs of your church and turn your invitations, save-the-date cards or even thank you notes into vintage-looking postcards with the church as the background.

Personalize your invitations with the type of language you use. Deep, Balagtas-type Tagalog for true blue Manileños, or idiosyncratic Taglish for a quirky twist.

Dress the Part: The piece de resistance at any Filipiniana wedding is the execution of the bridal gown. Traditional brides can subscribe to the customary terno using jusi or pinya, while more contemporary brides can opt for sleeker, more modern cuts using materials such as abel iloco. Rifle through your grandparents’ old wedding photos for inspiration, or brave your mom’s baul for undiscovered finds, and keep in mind that thinking out of the box will usually reward you with the most individual, most personal looks.

Fuse Filipino flowers such as sampaguita into your bouquet or weave sinamay into your entourage’s floral arrangements for flowers that go well with the outfits.
Have your shoe take on a streamlined bakya form.

The Church Ceremony: Filipinos have a marked way of celebrating weddings—from the veil, cord and candle traditions to the picture taking with both sides of the family. Hearing mass in Filipino in an old, historic church, writing your vows in your dialect and even listening to Filipino-arranged songs during the ceremony make for a very "Pinoy" ambience. Decorating the church accordingly will keep your theme cohesive as well:

1. leaving abanikos in the pews for guests to fan themselves during mass
2. covering the aisle in sinamay and scattering sampaguita and ilang-ilang
3. using a traditional banig for the bride to walk on
4. raffia twine embellished with pearls for the cord
5. using a kalesa or stylized jeepney as the couple’s transportation

Filipino Fiestas

Pinoys are famous for the parties they throw, from the annual fiestas each province celebrates to the games everyone remembers from childhood, from the impressive spread of kare-kare and pansit to everyone’s favorite halo-halo and sapin-sapin. The way you carry out your Filipiniana reception depends mainly on the type of Pinoy atmosphere you want for your wedding. Traditionalists will love a Father Blanco’s Garden-type outdoor reception, while pop culturists can go crazy with ideas such as a layered puto wedding cake or a dirty ice cream vendor positioned right by the dessert. Go Barrio Fiesta with your party with clay pots as chafing dishes, centerpieces made out of fresh, local fruits in bilaos or mini bahay kubo replicas. Have your guests serenaded with your favorite harana, or remind them of summers spent in the province with banana leaf placemats or bao used as placecard holders, capiz for napkin rings or even tuba instead of wine! Even the traditional bouquet toss and garter throw can adapt to games you used to play as children—bato-bato pick, pabitin or even pukpok palayok! Wax nostalgic by leaving your guests with gifts like framed, old Peso bills, jeepney magnets, or native delicacies wrapped in pretty abaca or sinamay packages.

***Source: Manila Bulletin Online

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Elements of the Filipino Wedding

Essential Elements of the Filipino Wedding

Filipino weddings are reflective of the importance we give to the people in our life– from our family to our friends to our mentors and other people we look up to and respect. It is our symbolic representation of the bonds we have with these people that makes the Filipino wedding distinctive, extending its involvement beyond the usual bridal party. Here, we list down some of the more important elements present in every Filipino wedding:

Ninong and Ninang. Oftentimes also known as the ‘principal sponsors’ of the wedding, Ninongs and Ninangs are usually selected from a roster of aunts and uncles and close family friends to the couple. Their number may range from a single pair to five or more. The couple’s Ninong and Ninang serve as the official witnesses of the state to the couple’s union and as such, have to join in signing the marriage license. In the early days of the Church, their participation was seen as a testimony to the couple’s readiness for marriage. These days, they are expected to provide guidance and to serve as shining examples to the couple in their married life.

Coin Sponsors. One of the four secondary sponsors (the others being the veil, cord and candle sponsors), the coin sponsors are a pair or a child (in this case, the coin bearer), selected by the bride and groom to present the wedding coins or ‘arrhae’ during the ceremony. Arrhae, also known as ‘arras’ (Spanish for ‘earnest money’), are thirteen silver or gold coins meant to signify the couple’s future prosperity and their commitment to mutually contributing to their family and the community. They are first blessed by the officiating priest, and then given to the couple to share or pass from one to the other.

Candle Sponsors. Candle sponsors are the people, sometimes both the bride and groom’s parents, chosen to light the candles on the altar. The candles’ light symbolizes the Light of Christ which indicates God’s presence in the couple’s union. In some ceremonies, the flames from the sponsors’ candles are used by the couple to light a unity candle also placed at the altar.

Veil Sponsors. Veil sponsors are responsible for placing a single veil over the shoulders of the couple during the ceremony. The veil, usually long white tulle, is pinned on top of the bride’s head and onto the shoulders of the groom. It serves to represent unity as the bride and groom are now ‘clothed as one’ in their union.

Cord Sponsors. After the draping of the veil, cord sponsors can now place a cord (may be a silken rope, a string of flowers or a link of coins) over the heads of the couple, to lay loosely over their shoulders. The cord, or the ‘yugal’ as it is sometimes known, is twisted into a figure-eight shape to symbolize everlasting fidelity and the lifelong bond between the couple.

The sequence for the respective rituals involving the wedding sponsors usually varies from ceremony to ceremony and it is usually wise to check first with the church if they have any set routine. However, in general, the lighting of the candles takes place first, either before the readings or at the beginning of the ceremony. The sharing/exchange of the wedding coins is done before or immediately after the exchange of rings. This is usually followed by the placing of the veil, just before the General Intercession, as the couple is instructed to kneel side-by-side. Finally, the placing of the cord follows once the veil is in place. Both the veil and the cord have to remain as the couple continues kneeling until after the Communion. If, however, the couple wishes to participate in the Sign of Peace, then the veil and cord can be removed immediately after the nuptial blessing.

***Source: Manila Bulletin Online

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Pinoy Wedding Facts & Trivia

Traditionally, wedding expenses are paid for by the groom's family in the Philippine setting, unlike in some western cultures. But more and more couples are giving their share from their hard-earned savings. Other couples even shoulder the entire wedding expenses themselves. It normally follows that whoever foots the bill has the final say on the size of the wedding; he or she also has the 'majority stake' on guest list.

It was a tradition for the bride to hold an heirloom rosary with the bridal bouquet during the Nuptial Mass. This practice is now being revived by some brides to honor our Catholic heritage and respect the solemn occasion.

Instead of a bouquet toss, some Filipina brides opt to offer the flowers to a favorite Saint or to the image of Virgin Mary at the church. Some even go out of their way to offer the bouquet at the grave of a lost loved one.

Using rice grains as confetti are discouraged in most churches in keeping with the austere times. Some Catholic churches don't allow Sunday weddings.

A Catholic Filipino wedding ceremony is held with a full Mass that runs about a hour.

Aside from the exchange of rings, the giving of the arrhae (earnest money in the form of 13 pieces of gold or silver coins) is a part of Filipino weddings as the groom's pledge of his dedication to the welfare of his wife and children.

The arrhae/arras is carried by a coin bearer who marches with the ring bearer during the processional and recessional.

If the couple intends to write their own wedding vows instead of reading the standard vows provided by the church, they should inform the officiating priest and ask for his approval.

Most Filipino brides prefer a custom-made wedding gown than having it ready-made or buying off-the-rack. The most popular month for weddings in the Philippines is December (until early January) rather than June.

UPDATE: On August 2006, the National Statistics Office announce that for four consecutive years, MAY, the month of flowers and fiestas, was consistently the peak month for getting married here in the country.

Filipino bride, grooms also walk down the aisle, either alone or with his parents.

The proximity of the ceremony and reception venues is a major consideration for guests' convenience, taking into account the Manila traffic and parking concerns.

Traditionally, wedding invitations have an insert/page that includes all the names and roles of each member of the the bridal party.

Reception cards are not so popular in the Philippines since it is usually expected that a wedding invitation covers both the ceremony and the reception.

Aside from the bridesmaids and groomsmen, three additional pairs of wedding attendants stand as secondary sponsors who assist in the [a] wedding candle, [b] veil and [c] cord ceremonies held during the Nuptial Mass.

[a] The candle sponsors light the wedding candles located at each side of couple. The flame from the candles symbolizes God's presence within the union. The lighting of a unity candle (of Protestant origin) is sometimes integrated as a variation.

[b] Next, the veil sponsors drape and pin the veil (a long white tulle) on the groom's shoulder and over the bride's head. This symbolizes the union of two people 'clothed' as one.

[c] Finally, the cord sponsors stand up with the cord (a silken rope, a string of flowers or links of coins) in the form of a figure-eight, placing each loop loosely around the neck/shoulder area of the couple. This symbolizes the infinite bond of marriage.

The veil and cord ceremonies have the marrying couple 'tied-up' together while kneeling for almost half the time during the nuptial Mass (it isn't as hard as it sounds, really).

Soon-to-weds do not arrive at the ceremony venue at the same time. The groom is expected to arrive several minutes (an hour even!) prior to the set time of the wedding to receive guests. The bride on the other hand, usually stays in the bridal car and only alights from the vehicle just in time for her bridal march.

As part of the ceremonial dance at the reception, some couples incorporate a 'money dance' where guests pin peso (or dollar!) bills on either the bride or groom in return for a chance to dance with them.

Newlyweds release a pair of white doves during the reception to signify a peaceful and harmonious marital relationship. Catchers find themselves going home with a new feathered pet.

***Source: WeddingsAtWork {w@w}

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Glossary of 'Kasal'

List of Filipino / Tagalog Wedding Terms

THE EVENT
wedding - kasal
getting married - ikakasal
marriage (or the act of marrying) - pag-iisang dibdib (loose translation: two hearts as one) ; pag-aasawa
wedding ceremony - kasalan
reception / wedding banquet - handaan
church wedding - kasal sa simbahan
civil wedding / civilly married - kasal sa jues ('judge' in Sapnish)

THE WEDDING PARTICIPANTS
soon-to-weds - ikakasal; kakasalin
groom - adressed simply as "lalaki" (man) in a Filipino/Tagalog wedding ceremony; nobyo (boyfriend) or lalaking kakasalin (marrying man) in everyday converstion
bride - adressed simply as "babae" (woman) in a Filipino/Tagalog wedding ceremony; nobya (girlfriend) or babaeng kakasalin (marrying woman) in everyday converstion
priest - pari
parent(s) - (mga) magulang
wedding sponsor (male) - ninong (godfather in English; padrino in Spanish)
wedding sponsor (female) - ninang (godmother in English; padrina in Spanish)
maid of honor - binibining pandangal
matron of honor - ginang pandangal
best man - piling ginoo
bridesmaid / groomsman / secondary sponsor - abay
newlyweds - bagong kasal
wife / husband - asawa or kabiyak (loose transaltion: better half )

THE BRIDAL ENSEMBLE
wedding gown - traje de boda (Spanish in orgin)
flower - bulaklak
ring (engagement or wedding ring) - singsing
arrhae (wedding coins) - arras (Spanish in orgin)
candle - kandila
veil - belo
cord - yugal

COMMONLY USED PHRASES
- Mahal kita. - "I love you. "
- Ini-ibig kita. - another variation of "I love you."
- Ikaw ang babaeng pakakasalan ko. - "You are the woman I'll marry."
- Dadalhin kita sa altar. - "I'll bring you to the altar" or "I'll marry you."
- Pakakasalan mo ba ako? - "Will you marry me?"
- Pakasal na tayo! - "Let's get married!"
- Ikakasal na ako! - "I'm getting married!"
- Kailan/Saan ang kasal? - When/Where is the wedding gonna be?
- Mabuhay ang bagong kasal! - Cheers! or Long live the newlyweds!

Just for fun: Anagrams of the word 'kasal'
[note: most of the terms below generally have negative connotations so be careful not to confuse them with the word "kasal"]

aklas - a walkout; strike or revolt
askal - colloquial term which means or stray dog, mongrel; contraction of the phrase "asong kalye" (loose translation: street dog)
kalas - separate; pull apart
lakas - strength
laksa - literally means "ten thousand" (i.e. laksa-laksang tao ang dumalo)
lasak - a gamefowl term which refers to a white-feathered rooster with some spangle-like butchers
sakal - choke; strangle; wring one's neck
sakla - gamble; gambling with the use of playing cards
salak - prefix of the words salakay (attack; invade); salakab (trap); and salaksak (shove; push roughly )

***Reference: WeddingsAtWork {w@w}

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