Long distance relationships are one of the most challenging dynamics for any couple– oh, but the rewards are well worth it! Take Jed and Leah as proof that distance is no barrier for true love. After being in a long distance relationship for 2 years and 6 months, the couple finally tied the knot and had their wedding on October 29, 2022. But, their love story began 10 years ago in the hallways of their high school.
The Beginning of the Love Story
Once a shy teenager, Jed had been hesitant to approach Leah on his own. So, he asked a friend to accompany him to talk to Leah. It was during one of their school days that Jed finally mustered up the courage to go up to Leah and ask for her number. They started texting and dating soon after that fateful day in their locker area.
The two dated throughout their remaining days of high school, and they were classmates all throughout their college years. Unfortunately, when they graduated college in 2019, Jed and his family had to migrate to the United States for good. From seeing each other almost every day, the couple had to cope with being physically apart. However, this didn’t stop the two. If anything, the experience strengthened their love and helped them grow more as a couple.
Their relationship stood the ultimate test, and Jed returned to the Philippines to visit and propose to Leah. It was no surprise that Leah said yes, but Jed still had to go back to the United States for his work. They planned their wedding virtually while simultaneously working on Leah’s visa so they wouldn’t have to be apart anymore.
Preparing for the Wedding
Since Jed and Leah had to plan their wedding without being together physically, the whole preparation process was quite challenging. On top of considering each other’s schedules and availability, they had to deal with having different time zones. They also needed to set virtual meetings with their suppliers. However, thanks to the couple’s unwavering love and support for one another, they were able to rise up to the challenges that came with planning their wedding.
Leah cites how their wedding planner and coordinator, Agnes Tuale of Team WED, was instrumental to the success of their wedding. Working with a coordinator since day 1 has helped make the wedding planning process much easier, and they were able to find the best suppliers for their special day.
Fortunately for Jed and Leah, COVID restrictions were lifted for their city. They were allowed to invite 200 guests to their wedding. However, they still wanted to keep things safe, so they required their guests to be vaccinated, and everyone had to wear white masks during the wedding ceremony.
The couple chose a rustic outdoor theme and enhanced it with sage green colors for a simple, yet elegant wedding. They also originally planned to have their wedding outdoors, but they decided to move it indoors instead to account for rainy weather.
Getting Married!
The big day finally arrived. Unfortunately, the couple’s city was struck by the storm “Paeng”. The weather outside was horrible, and they were worried for their guests and suppliers. They also experienced hitches with their event stylist because some of the fresh flowers she ordered from Cebu were stranded and couldn’t cross over to Dumaguete. Soon they received other calls from their guests who were stranded and couldn’t make it over to the city. One groomsman even expressed his regrets because he was stranded and couldn’t attend the wedding.
Naturally, the couple became anxious. However, their nerves soon lifted when other suppliers, crew members, and makeup artists scurried around, getting everything in order for the big day. Their parents and coordinator were quick to offer comfort and reassurance, reminding them that everything, even the oncoming storm, had a reason and that it was still a beautiful day to celebrate after months of preparation and prayer. The couple took a deep breath, knowing they had the support they needed to make it through.
With this newfound determination, they decided to move the ceremony to a balcony near the reception area and secured a proxy groomsman on the spot. The problem was solved, and the couple could finally relax, knowing that their special day was back on track.
When the bride and groom finally saw each other walking down the aisle, the emotions were palpable. Tears of joy and happiness streamed down their faces as they exchanged vows in front of their closest family and friends. The ceremony was a solemn, yet joyous affair. Everyone felt the love in the air.
During the reception, the guests were entertained with a smooth program. Laughter and joy filled the room, and everyone was happy for the newly married couple. The afterparty was a particular hit, with everyone having a fantastic time. The bride and groom were over the moon with all their suppliers, and couldn’t be more grateful for the unforgettable memories they had created on their special day.
Advice for Soon-to-Weds Planning Their Wedding
When asked about their advice for couples planning to get married, this is what Jed and Leah had to say:
“Enjoy every moment and don’t rush! Talk to each other and also ask for the opinion of your partner. For every decision that you make, consult each other. Enjoy your wedding planning because time flies so fast!”
The two stress the importance of communication and collaboration. It’s a special day for both the bride and groom, and it’s their shared ideas that really bring the vision to life.
Leah also brings up the importance of having a trusted coordinator on your side. “Having a good and experienced wedding planner and coordinator is also very important because they will be guiding you in every step of the way and will make sure you will have the best suppliers. It is also good to plan your wedding 6-8 months before to avoid stress since there will be challenges and changes that you will encounter along the way and don’t do last minute bookings.”
Lastly, Jed and Leah remind couples to always pray. “Don’t forget to always pray for your big day because it really helps.”
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