A wedding by the beach

CEBU, Philippines - Before lovers’ day arrived, couple Clarice Salgado and Kirk Frederick Cinco tied the knot with the Tañon breeze singing its love song with a tropical beat on the background.

It was an unusual wedding.

There was none of the long gowns or the usual princess hullabaloo that most young women dream of having on their big day. But elegance was not of lack.

Comfortable beach wear, including sandals and fitflops for footwear, was the required attire.

Even Rev. George Alviola of the Throne of Grace and Mercy Ministries and Judge Candelario Gonzalez of RTC Branch 45, who co-officiated the ceremony, were in their best and most comfortable white tropical wear.

Draped in white asymmetrical gown by Australian designer Carla Zampatti (the one worn by Australian singer and actress Danii Minogue in one of the episodes of X Factor), Clarice walked down the beautiful beach garden of Swiss nationals Erich and Sarah Jane Buetler in Zamboanguita town like a Grecian princess.

“It has always been our dream to have a beach wedding,” said the bride. “We love the beach and we hope to build our own family by the beach one day.”

Despite the occasional drizzle, “The weather was wonderful,” said her new husband.

The exchange of vows was highlighted by the ceremonial pouring of sand which symbolized the unity of the bride and groom.

“As they pour their separate containers of sand into the common vessel, those separate individuals will cease to exist. The grains of sand that represent s separate moments, decisions, feelings and events that shaped the lives of Clarice and Kirk is now merged into a loving and supportive marital community,” explained Alviola before the 150 guests that attended the intimate gathering.

Fire dancers and a reggae band completed the whole tropical theme.

“We are happy that everyone who matters in our lives are here to celebrate with us and hope that just as the beach’s horizon is endless, our union will know no end as well,” the couple said. (FREEMAN)