#Beric2015: Eric Dee and Bea Soriano’s trending wedding

MANILA, Philippines - Good night, Bei,” I whispered to my younger sister as I tucked her in that night — the night before she tied the knot with my best travel buddy and love of her life, Eric.

It was actually 5 a.m. already. And being hands-on family members (and modern day procrastinators), we stayed up late to finalize the garden wedding plans for Eric and Bea.

As Bea slept, I looked at her with emotions that were impossible to segregate and discern. Multiple memories enveloped my being — our identical Sunday dresses, late-night conversations, make-believe telenovelas, midnight dance videos, Disney marathons, running in the rain, and so on. Then, as if on theatrical cue, I remember our family travels with Eric, how Bea laughs like a five-year old at his jokes, and the way he makes her feel better when she’s down. 

It was a Tuesday morning, Jan. 20 when we were all getting ready for the beginning of forever, not only for two souls, but for two families. The weather forecast spoke of dismal rains; but, the warm aura of friends, families, and loved ones swayed the weather gods otherwise. With much cooperation, the sun’s rays shined brightly, creating a friendly temperature for what was to come.

Antonio’s Tagaytay was like a storybook picturesque garden scene. Crisp leaves, flower bushes, and an abundance of white phalaenopsis orchids surrounded the cozy wooden benches in this circular garden of eden. And at the other side of the entrance, by the most romantic view of the garden, there was a brick road leading towards the altar. In this sacred place, orchid petals scattered breezily, in company with a majestic arch that offers an understated elegance for the wedding ceremony.

A soft and sweet melody played in the background as I, along with my mother, ushered Bea backwards from the entrance towards the center of the garden, where Eric and the rest of the Dee-Soriano families were seated. Our small steps mirrored the music in the background. And the sweet, almost tranquil melody, beckoned the couple’s awaited journey. The cultural Chinese Tea Ceremony (tinghun) has just commenced. It was a modern take of the traditional tinghun, an engagement party, as all members of both families were served tea and misua by the couple. For me, this symbolizes the union of our families, formed by love, and bound by respect for one another.

Aperitivo hour came next as engaging games and activities entertained the guests, while being served aperitif beverages, canapés, and fruits. As everyone willingly played Wedding Bingo, going around the garden, and completing the task, I was amazed at how intimate the gathering was. The guests’ openness and embrace reflected the couple’s relationship with their friends, families, and loved ones.

As the sun began to set, the beautiful evening started with the most solemn part of the day — the wedding ceremony. The hanging tivoli lights were all lit as Pachelbel in Canon Major D String Quartet sounded overhead, signaling the entourage to walk down the aisle. 

Everyone turned as they watched statuesque Eric Dee Jr. take his place at the altar, alongside his parents, Enrico “Rikki” Dee and Elizabeth “Beng” Dee. One by one, the ninongs and ninangs followed as they were ushered to their place by the altar.

Amid the excitement and anticipation, I took my place as the maid of honor, and glanced back at Bea and my parents, Jefferson “Jeff” Soriano and Eleanor “Beging” Soriano. My younger sister caught a glimpse of me and smiled. It took all the effort not to run back and give her a quick embrace. My Bea. My other half. My partner-in-crime-and-in-all-else. She made me the proudest ate.

As we took our place in the altar, the music faded and seconds after, Falling Slowly started playing. There was peaceful silence as everyone followed Eric’s intent gaze to the entry point of the aisle, where his beautiful bride-to-be was standing in between her parents.

Tears started flowing down the faces of the guests as they witnessed Bea walking down the aisle with overflowing happiness.

And, as my father handed Bea to Eric and his family, he found solace and comfort knowing how she is deeply loved and respected by them. 

The ceremony was very personal and the vows were simple yet profound. The Judge spoke about unconditional love and unspoken promises, and how this commitment is not only for one another, but a commitment to the community, and above all else, to God.

And then dinner was served.

Once inside the banquet hall, the wedding guests were taken aback by the Jo Claravall’s elegant décor of phalaenopsis and candelabras. At par with the décor was the sumptuous degustation, which was prepared by none other than the groom’s parents and restaurateurs extraordinaire.

True to tradition, Eric and Bea expressed their gratitude to everyone who shared this day with them. During dinner, glasses were raised and toasts were made as the father of the groom, the father of the bride, the best man, Enrico “Cheeno” Dee Sr., and myself made our speeches. It was nostalgic to learn about the childhood stories of the newlyweds. Likewise, it was exceedingly pleasant to hear the wishes of both Rikki and Jeff to their children.

The party continued with guests dancing, catching up on old times, sharing wedding goose bump moments, and posting #Beric2015 pictures to be etched in history forever.