Lea’s voice cracks as she says ‘I do’

LOS ANGELES, California — It was appropriately a wedding ceremony filled with music, love and laughter.

At exactly 3 p.m. here Saturday, Lea Salonga walked down the center aisle of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles and exchanged vows with Robert Chien.

Principal sponsors included Jose Mari Chan and Bayo’s Ferdie Agustin from Manila. Lea’s maid of honor was Yvette Fernandez-Ferreol. Rob’s best man was Eric Putz. Songs filled the air during the ceremony as Lea’s friends sang "One Hand, One Heart," "Ikaw" and "Tanging Yaman."

Lea herself surprised the guests, as well as her fiancé Rob, when right after he took his vows and before she took hers, she sang "Two Words," an original song composed especially for her by Louie Ocampo and Freddie Santos with Gerard Salonga on piano and DJ Francisco on violin.

The groom was already in tears at the sight of his stunningly beautiful bride walking down the aisle towards him. Rob’s voice cracked as he said his vows, his eyes swelled with tears. Lea similarly broke down as she took her vows.

Lea looked radiantly beautiful in a Monique Lhuillier wedding gown. Monique, whose shop is in Beverly Hills, named the gown "The Lea" in her honor. She describes the classic wedding gown as "regal, elegant and luxurious. It is made of the finest silk satin organza and French Allencon lace. The fitted long sleeve bodice with a deep ivory sash accentuate her waist and the bustled skirt create a regal and flawless look."

The reception followed at the Biltmore Hotel where Lea and Rob made their entrance into the Ballroom singing "With You I’m Born Again" (a song they both recorded for the souvenir CD given out to wedding guests).

It was truly a memorable and special night for the newlyweds, their families, and their good friends. Love was truly in the air.

ABS-CBN was also present to document the ceremony and festivities for an upcoming wedding special entitled "I Do: The Lea Salonga/Robert Chien Wedding," which airs Jan. 23 at 9 p.m.

Lea and Rob will reside in Los Angeles although she is expected to return to Manila later in the year for several theater, concert and recording projects.