Thinking of saying “I do” in Manila? Get ready for a wedding experience filled with time-honored traditions, vibrant celebrations, and, of course, enough food to feed a small village. A traditional Filipino wedding is not just about the couple—it’s about family, community, and a deep-rooted cultural heritage that turns an ordinary ceremony into an unforgettable event.
Whether you’re planning a destination wedding in Manila or simply curious about Filipino wedding customs, this guide will take you through the rituals, venues, and everything you need to know for an authentic Filipino wedding experience!
💍 The Journey to “I Do”: Filipino Courtship & Pre-Wedding Traditions
1. Harana (Serenade): Winning Hearts the Old-Fashioned Way
Before DMs and dating apps, Filipino men had to work for love—with music! Imagine standing outside your beloved’s window at night, strumming a guitar, and pouring your heart out in a traditional kundiman (Filipino love song). If she (and her parents!) liked it, you were on the right track. If not… well, let’s just say it was an awkward walk home.
2. Pamanhikan: The Formal Family Meeting (with LOTS of Food)
Forget popping the question in private—here, it’s a family event! The groom’s family visits the bride’s home to officially ask for her hand in marriage. But it’s not just a conversation; it’s a feast. Food is served, stories are exchanged, and sometimes, the whole neighborhood shows up. (Yes, really.)
👉 Pro tip: If you’re marrying into a Filipino family, bring food. It’s the quickest way to win their hearts.
💒 The Wedding Ceremony: Meaningful Rituals & Symbolism
Most Filipino weddings take place in stunning Catholic churches, thanks to Spanish colonial influence. Manila is home to some of the most breathtaking wedding venues, including:
📍 San Agustin Church – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest church in the Philippines, perfect for a classic, elegant wedding.
📍 Manila Cathedral – Majestic, historic, and ideal for grand wedding ceremonies.
📍 Binondo Church – A hidden gem known for its rich history and romantic ambiance.
Traditional Wedding Elements:
💖 Veil & Cord Ceremony – A white veil is placed over the couple to symbolize unity, while a cord is looped around their shoulders in a figure-eight shape, representing eternity. (Yes, forever-ever.)
💰 Arrhae (Coin Exchange) – The groom gives the bride 13 gold coins, symbolizing prosperity and shared responsibility. In modern weddings, couples sometimes personalize the coins with engravings.
🕯️ Candle Lighting Ceremony – Two individual candles merge into one, representing the couple’s union. Cue the collective “aww” from the guests.
👗 What to Wear: Traditional Filipino Wedding Attire
Filipino wedding fashion is a mix of elegance, tradition, and tropical comfort:
👔 For the Groom: The Barong Tagalog, a formal hand-embroidered shirt made from pineapple fiber—lightweight, breathable, and totally stylish.
👰 For the Bride: A stunning Filipiniana gown with intricate lace details and iconic butterfly sleeves. Think classic, yet dramatic.
🌺 For the Guests: Formal attire with tropical flair! Light fabrics and pastel colors work best in Manila’s warm climate.
🎉 The Reception: A Full-Blown Filipino Fiesta!
If you thought the ceremony was grand, wait until you experience the reception! Filipino weddings are legendary for their epic food spreads, lively dances, and unique traditions.
🍽️ The Food: No One Leaves Hungry
Filipinos take food very seriously, and wedding banquets are proof of that. Expect:
🔥 Lechon (roast pig) – The star of the buffet table, with crispy skin and juicy meat.
🍜 Pancit – A noodle dish served for long life and prosperity.
🥜 Kare-Kare – A rich peanut stew with oxtail, best paired with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste).
🌯 Lumpia – Golden-brown, crispy spring rolls that disappear in seconds.
💸 The Money Dance: A Fun & Profitable Tradition
Instead of just giving wedding gifts, guests pin cash onto the couple while they dance! The more graceful your moves, the more money you collect. 💃🕺
(And yes, there’s always that uncle who dramatically waves a 1000-peso bill before pinning it on the groom.)
🎭 Wedding Games & Surprises
Filipino receptions are interactive and unpredictable! From fun couple trivia games to choreographed family dances, there’s never a dull moment.
🌅 Planning a Destination Wedding in Manila? Here’s What You Need to Know!
If you’re considering a destination wedding in Manila, here are some tips to make it stress-free:
✔️ Best time to get married? December to February (cooler weather, stunning sunsets). Avoid June-August (rainy season).
✔️ Guest count? Expect a big wedding—Filipinos love celebrating with extended family and friends!
✔️ Best venues? For luxury, check out The Manila Hotel or Sofitel Philippine Plaza. For history, go for a church in Intramuros.
✔️ Budget? Filipino weddings can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the venue and guest list.
💡 FAQ: Common Questions About Filipino Weddings
❓ How long does a traditional Filipino wedding last?
The ceremony is usually 1–2 hours, but the reception? It can go until dawn!
❓ Can foreigners get married in the Philippines?
Yes! You’ll need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from your embassy and a marriage license.
❓ What’s a unique Filipino wedding tradition?
The Money Dance—it’s both fun and financially rewarding!
📸 Capture Every Moment of Your Manila Wedding
Your wedding is more than just a ceremony—it’s a celebration of love, culture, and unforgettable moments. As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the joy, energy, and emotion of your big day.
✨ Check out my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
📸 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
💌 Let’s make magic together: Contact Me
Your love story is unique—let’s capture it in a way that’s just as unforgettable. 💕
