In cultures of the Philippines, the groom’s family traditionally pays for the wedding. These days, however, relatives of the bride often help pay for some expenses. The bride and groom usually pays for the costs of their own savings.

Before any of this is decided yet, the groom and his family will visit the bride’s house to ask her family for her hand. This is called the Pamamanhikan or “meeting of the two families.” Pamamanhikan is a traditional event where wedding plans are shaped. It can be a difficult time for the couple to hear their parents discussing plans for the future. Parents discuss issues related to the guest list, budget, etc..

As far as wedding dresses go, dressed in white have become popular in the last century because of Western influence in the Philippines. Traditionally, brides dressed in designs put on public holidays. The wedding dresses that represent styles of that era in particular. The couple now tend to wear the Barong Tagalog as it is formal wear traditional Filipino cultures. Usually used untucked, with a regular white shirt underneath. The couple also often wear black pants. The male wedding guests typically bring their best Barongs.

Traditionally, in long past centuries, the wedding ceremony would last three days. Modern Filipino weddings have changed a lot, but some of the native customs are the same. Today, there are special sponsors, and godparents, aunts, uncles, or father, acting as special witnesses to the wedding. There are also secondary sponsors that normally deal with specific aspects of the ceremony. Some of them may become sponsors candle which will light two candles. The bride and groom will take each of these candles, and use them to light a candle to symbolize their union.

A veil will sponsor a veil over the shoulders of the groom and the bride’s head. The veil is usually white. This is to dress the two as one. The sponsor of the cord hang a decorative cord, called UGAL on the shoulders of the couple. The silk cord is tied in a figure-eight, and is believed to symbolize everlasting fidelity. Finally, the groom gives his bride thirteen coins, blessed by the priest, called rrhae “This symbolizes his dedication to his wife and their unborn children. It is a sign of respect, as he warns that it will provide for their welfare.

Perhaps the most elaborate case of a wedding is the Filipino fiesta. Food at the exploits of Filipino wedding is in soups and a variety of different meats, chicken, goat, ham, fish and roast pork. Vegetables and fruits are also provided. For dessert, meringues, coconut macaroons, baked custard cream and sweetened seeds of the nipa plant served. No one goes hungry in a Filipino wedding!

Filipino weddings are considered some of the world’s most beautiful ceremonies. The Filipino culture is very much appreciated by his belief in the sanctity of marriage. They ensure that the link between the bride and groom to be done in an unforgettable event!