.ove in the time of COVID: This traveling couple comes home to celebrate their COVID-era love story with a timeless wedding ceremony.

Businessman Kenneth Johnston Liao and Doctor Camille Joyce Crisostomo’s romance blossomed amidst COVID and a regular back-and-forth journey between Manila and Bicol. Their relationship progressed at the same time that COVID’s hold over the world slowly diminished, and by the time of their wedding, which took place two years from the beginning of their love story, a celebration of their love and the conditions it persevered through was definitely in order.

The Beginning of Their Love Story

Kenneth and Camille met in June 2021 during the COVID Pandemi.  They have been set up on a blind dinner date by Camille’s clinic manager (who is now their ninang).  At the time, Camille had just started her practice as a dermatologist in Manila.  At the same time, she was also offered steady work in Legazpi, Albay every month. Undeterred by this regular cross-Luzon commute, she and Kenneth went on to have several dates in both Manila and Bicol.   Many of these dates took place on scenic beaches alongside friends & family.  (Note:  both bride & groom happen to be beach-lovers, another sign of their deep compatibility). The two were inseparable from then on.

After a year of dating and traveling together, Kenneth proposed to Camille on a yacht in Subic, with her family as witnesses to the occasion. Camille said yes, telling us that in that moment she experienced what the phrase “when you know, you know” truly means, prompting her answer and their engagement, with a big wedding to follow in a year’s time.

Planning for The Wedding

The words Camille and Kenneth used to describe what they wanted for their wedding were classic, romantic, chic, traditional, and timeless. Blush pink (Camille’s favorite color) and white were to be the event’s key colors, tying into a color motif they wanted, which they similarly described as light, very elegant, and very pleasing to the eyes.

In terms of planning the big day, Camille found that the process was not at all stressful. “Honestly, preparing a wedding, at least for me, was such a breeze”, she said of the planning phase of their engagement. This was in light of her still very hectic work schedule (Camille would fly in and out of Bicol almost every two weeks for clinic). During spare time at work, she would look at reviews of wedding suppliers before booking them together with Kenneth. A month before the wedding, everything was already complete and in place, ready to the point that she only needed to take a leave from work the week of the wedding itself.

The Wedding Day

Camille and Kenneth were both nervous and excited the morning of the wedding ceremony.  They chose the iconic St. Michael the Archangel Parish in BGC. Camille spent the morning telling herself not to be stressed out since it was finally the big day.  After all,  and everything had already been prepared a week in advance. Before walking down the aisle, she found that she was still shaking.  She kept praying that she wouldn’t fall or do something embarrassing during the ceremony.

Despite her apprehensions, everything went smoothly.  Camille was calm and composed; she walked down the elegantly adorned aisle filled with pristine white flowers, serenaded by the band 3rd Avenue performing “The One.” Lining the aisle were friends and family members present for the church ceremony, adding a sense of significance and warmth to the occasion for the couple.

The Wedding Reception

Following the ceremony and a series of photographs, Camille and Kenneth proceeded to the reception.   They were pleasantly surprised to discover that Bonifacio Hall at Shangri-La at The Fort had been flawlessly arranged in accordance with their wishes. The precision and detailed nature of the room’s décor astonished them.  It was as if it had been plucked directly from their shared imagination. This left them filled with joy and anticipation, eager to witness how the reception would unfold.

During the reception, the guests savored the exquisite six-course meal that had been meticulously prepared.  Their dining experience was enhanced by the charm and finesse of the evening’s host, whose humor resonated with all in attendance. One standout moment of the wedding was the couple’s special dance performance.   To the tune of “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” from the movie Dirty Dancing, they gamely danced.  Cheers erupted as the newlyweds showcased their moves.  The enthusiastic reactions confirmed that their rigorous dance rehearsals had indeed paid off.

Another highlight of the reception was the game “Birit-to-win-it.”   Some of Kenneth and Camille’s closest friends and relatives engaged in a spirited competition to win a grand prize by belting out their favorite tunes. This led to a succession of entertaining, and at times, hilarious performances that had everyone thoroughly entertained.

The night culminated with lively dancing and celebrations.  This day, indeed, is one to be fondly remembered—a celebration brimming with love and laughter.

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Tips for Couples Who Are Planning Their Big Day

For couples embarking on the journey of wedding planning, Kenneth and Camille share invaluable advice that extends beyond the event’s logistics.  They advise: “Do not hesitate to communicate your desires and preferences to your partner. It’s crucial for one of you to be decisive. Prolonging decisions can consume a significant amount of time.” Camille emphasizes the importance of having a supportive partner.  She highlights Kenneth’s ability to seamlessly take charge of planning when she was occupied with clinic duties. “The key is having a supportive partner. Always engage in discussions about your shared vision for the wedding.”

A Thoughtful Approach

Delving into the intricacies of wedding planning, Camille recommends a thoughtful approach: “Carefully consider your options and avoid impulsive bookings. Trusting one’s instincts and choosing what feels right for both partners is essential in making the best decisions.” In their case, this approach led to the realization of the exact ceremony and reception they had envisioned.

Kenneth and Camille conclude their advice with a vital reminder: “Above all, don’t stress yourself out. Enjoy the process.” It serves as a poignant reminder to savor the journey of wedding planning.  Focus on the joyous moments that lead to a memorable celebration.

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