Shangri-la: The Ultimate Dream Wedding Setting

April signifies the start of summer, suggesting not only the call of tropical white sand beaches, but also the start of the year''s wedding season.

It''s the time of the year where brides-to-be are enlivened to plan for their dream wedding: from magical outdoor garden weddings to solemn church ceremonies, to their gowns and dresses. Their imaginations are boundless, taking into account almost every little detail, the most important of which is the venue, which is usually given "the" most attention and consideration.

Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa has always been noted to be the premier destination for most events and gatherings for the elite, particularly weddings. This year, they bring us a new addition to the many venue choices they have to offer, and a real head on at that, especially that nowadays most couples seek something that would definitely be out of the ordinary.

The Marquee, an extensive venue of white walls and wide spaces has risen to become a new landmark at Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa. Launched last November 2006, it is Shangri-La''s latest multi-function tent, raising the bar for special occasions to a much grander scale.

Occupying an area of approximately 1,200 square meters, the Marquee is said to be the biggest of its kind in the region, having a banqueting capacity of 800 persons. Designed by Manila-based Syndicated Architects, it gives much flexibility on functionality while maintaining a symmetrically shaped, very pleasing form both on its exteriors and interiors. The tensile structure has a dimension of 34 by 34 meters, and an overwhelming ceiling height of 11.5 meters, where fabricated lanterns are hung atop with adjustable lighting system to suit any mood. Tucked within the lush Shangri-La grounds, and adjacent to the semi-isolated Chi Spa, the Marquee allows a private, somewhat exclusive environment for whoever wishes it.

After its unveiling, it has served to house the representatives of ASEAN countries and their six dialogue partners last January 14, 2007, giving quite a remarkable impression on these leaders, as well as the locals, during the Gala Dinner which was the grandest banquet ever carried out by Shangri-La''s Mactan Resort and Spa. Having been able to host such a lavishly distinguished affair, The Marquee is sure to be considered for other future events as grand as that.

Aside from the Marquee, there are existing sites ideal for weddings - the Ocean Pavilion, for one. This locale stands atop a cliff-side terrain along the Mactan seashore, commanding a panoramic view of the sea with its distinctively designed roof. This structure gives it its even more unique feature, an eye-catching one. This goes well with a very solemn, heavenly. experience of a marriage ceremony, many of which were already conducted not just for locals but for foreigners, as well. A highly recommended venue, even for one who''s only been there once before.

Like any other couple, one''s wedding is ideally to be as personalized as possible. With Shangri-La''s wide array of choices for venues, whether it be a conventional formal ballroom banquet soiree, or a more informal celebration on the beach, a wedding set in Shangri-La Mactan''s Resort and Spa is sure to be one like no other. You can bet on that.

Credits: Shangri-La''s Bridal Fair @ The Marquee, March 24, 2007 * Lesley Anne Y. Tan, Assistant Communications Manager -Shangri-La''s Mactan Resort and Spa