1. Real Weddings

Larah & Tristan: A Cultural Wedding in Dearborn, MI

When Tristan Barcelon first crossed paths with fellow student Larah Faye Ostonal at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, he definitely didn't steal h

When Tristan Barcelon first crossed paths with fellow student Larah Faye Ostonal at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, he definitely didn't steal her heart -- he stole her parking spot. THE BRIDE Larah Faye Ostonal THE GROOM Tristan Barcelon THE DATE October 4 Luckily a mutual friend formally introduced the pair under better circumstances the next summer, and, four years after their original encounter, Tristan proposed.

Larah wore a white satin A-line gown adorned with silver embroidery and Swarovski crystals by Maggie Sottero.
The bridesmaids wore sleeveless satin blouses in deep orange with beaded scoop necklines and orange satin-covered buttons down the back, paired with flowing floor-length skirts featuring the same shiny orange satin on the bottom and tangerine chiffon on top, and which appeared different shades of orange as the light reflected off of them. The ensembles were designed by the bride and custom-made in the Philippines. The guys wore tuxes from President Tuxedo.
After the ceremony at the Church of the Divine Child, Larah's family church and alma mater from grade school through high school, the couple made their exit amid bubbles, then headed off with their bridal party in a white limousine for the celebration at the Henry Ford Estate. It was very important for me to have it at a location that I know will always be there, so that we can return and visit many years later, Larah explains. In keeping with their autumnal theme, the couple selected a palette with shades of maple and oak leaves. Birds of paradise and various mums and roses in fall colors adorned each table, and large martini glasses held floating candles shaped like maple leaves and pumpkins. Carved pumpkins also graced the front of the reception site, serving as pots for mums.
We followed the traditional Filipino wedding where we had three sets of godparents, Larah explains. These are people we admire and would like to honor. The couple also included the custom of exchanging coins to symbolize their now shared possessions, and the draping of the veil and cord to unite the two as one.
For dessert, the wedding cake took center stage, each layer featuring a different flavor -- white chocolate and fresh strawberries, banana delight, and white chocolate cascade. But if that wasn't enough to satisfy the sweetest tooth, the couple also offered the estate's ultimate sweet table, a dessert table offering selections of finger pastries such as raspberry squares, chocolate and white chocolate cookies, and mini cheesecakes.