A Midsummer Night’s  Dream Wedding

It was the height of summer with the humidity at an all time high, though rain clouds congested the stratosphere. But inside the cavernous lobby of the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, a huge audience converged for the sequel of Weddings at the Marco Polo Plaza launched last year, awestruck by the garden setting that seemed to materialize for just a day.

Anticipation was also high as special guests, fashion editors and other members of the fashion demimonde took the front rows of the t-shaped runway that started beautifully at the grand stairway, bedecked with flowers and drapes. Fashion Council of Cebu designers were also in high spirits as their bridal ensemble, draped on lithe bodies from M.A.C.>Models Association of Cebu who sashayed the runway, buoyed by spectacular music chosen by the designers themselves. Opening the show was Albert Arriba, his bridesmaid in avocado green uni-shouldered chiffon dress with the bride in multi-tiered halter chiffon gown with lace insertion on the waistband glittering with Swarovski crystals as Bali High reverberated in the transformed lobby. Arcy Gayatin’s ultra modern brides in crocheted pattern and crisp linen with pleated textures donned flat sandals oh so perfect for a resort wedding. As wedding bells tolled, Cary Santiago’s bride and bridesmaid were draped in oatmeal jersey that rippled at every step. A Grecian inspired dress in carnation pink and a veiled georgette gown with crystal encrusted bodice showing the décolleté was unveiled by Ditas Rodriguez as bridesmaid and bride, respectively. A big bow and miniature ribbons adorned the bridesmaid’s shoulder and hair in a pleated dress by Felix Yu. His bride was in an ankle length flapper dress in lace that was so nostalgic of a bygone era – 20s. Jun Escario’s twin brides in beaded halter top and flowing chiffon with curled hair had wood nymphs in mind and so enchanting. Oj Hofer showed brides in immaculate jersey gown and – surprise – pantsuit, for the contemporary bride with the groom in embroidered linen coat and pants and sandals. A layered strapless dress with crystals, lace and feathers was  Philip  Rodriguez’  new look for bridesmaids with the bride in knotted bodice and chiffon in volume. Frayed and fitted were the barong and linen pants on the groom for a youthful touch.

The finale had the brides, bridesmaids and groom on parade so much like Queen Titania and her court on a midsummer night. So, so enchanting!