A Summerbliss

Just minutes before the ceremonies, I entered the hallowed halls of the Saint Martin of Tours Church nestled in a quaint neighborhood in Brentwood California. Literally being in another world, it was almost surreal but surprisingly close to home when the Cebuano tongue echoed audibly throughout the narrow corridors. Quietly I stepped in and saw new and familiar faces. Just when the acquaintance and re-acquaintance heightened, the lady minister gave the cue.

My recent holiday to Los Angeles took a sudden swerve when our photographer (now based in the City of Angels) requested me to assist him for a wedding photo coverage. I may have no background in photography but with nothing better to do, I zealously accepted the task. Besides, he briefed me of my functions the day prior. Plus, we were to service fellow Cebuanos!

On a gorgeous September Saturday, we made our way to church via an 8-seater limousine, of course, with the bride, Bernadette 'Yetyet' Puno and her family (who by the way I met the night before in Marriott Woodland Hills). I immediately made my way inside the chapel as soon as I stepped out of the limo and was welcomed by no less than the groom, Marvin Castro, with his parents Mr. and Mrs. Lovino Castro. The rest of the cast was just arriving: the good- looking entourage, titos and titas standing as godparents. Former model Steevee Maboob and her dashing hubby Plampie Reroma were to don the veil, while the familiar faces of Chistine Wong and Santiago 'Tiny' Go stood as bridesmaid and bestman, respectively. Imagine this many Cebuanos who have not seen so much of each other, in one small room. Absolutely loud! The lady minister had to frequently shush for silence while arranging the bridal sequence. I settled on a strategic pew that will give me and our photographer easy access to capture each precious moment.

Then, heavenly music filled the room and a tenor's serenade commenced the march. Everyone rose as the lady of the day stood at the foot of the chapel doors beaming in a simple yet elegant white satin Vera Wang. I just love the way Americans choreograph their matrimonial rites. Like what you see in the movies, the entourage usually stands beside the celebrant while the handsome beau patiently waits for his bride. Unfortunately, it doesn't end that quickly. The whole nine yards is quite similar to that of the Filipino tradition. Good thing the young couple radiated with infectious love that the sixty minutes passed by unnoticed.

Lunch followed at the elegant Odyssey Restaurant. Perched on Grenada Hills, the dining establishment overlooks downtown LA. And on this sunny day, the panorama outside the glass windows was a sight to behold! But the gathering inside was even more eventful. Food was aplenty and it was an open bar. But more importantly, the faces and smiles exuded with so much joy and happiness. After a short program and some dancing, we were off to Santa Monica Beach for the bridal shots. And we were right on time. The setting sun provided the needed natural light while the cool September breeze and the waves gave the refreshing sound. With a very animated couple along with a very playful posse and a spectacular backdrop, what else will you ask for? It was picture perfect!

Oh, I almost forgot about my task. I must have done a helluva job because I never got any complains from our photographer. And we've got the pictures to prove it. So, here's to Marvin and Yetyet!