'Happy ever after' does exist

“Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction.”  Antoine de Saint-Exupery

The majestic Basilica Minore de San Sebastian Church in Quiapo, Manila was recently filled with romance and heartwarming exchange of vows as one of the country’s most admired heiresses, Thalassa Gatlin Elizalde, daughter of broadcasting mogul Fred Elizalde and stepdaughter of prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, tied the knot with Mallers Investment, Inc. president Robert Raymond Bernal del Rosario, son of fishing magnate Roberto del Rosario and wife Moleen.

Sasha and Ray met in grade school at the International School of Manila (ISM), where they became very good friends until they parted ways after graduating from high school. It was in 2009 when they rekindled everything via Facebook and got to catch up over coffee when Ray spent his vacation in Manila. To their surprise, sparks flew upon seeing each other again and was then followed by numerous dates, which led to a romantic proposal at Point Dume in Malibu. In a secluded spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean with the sun setting in the background and seagulls flying near a light tower, Ray got down on one knee and popped the question at that perfect moment.

Their love was sealed recently in front of family and close friends who were all teary-eyed as Ray and Sasha professed their love and devotion to each other. The solemn ceremony was witnessed by principal sponsors, led by former First Lady Amelita Ramos, Senators Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Loren Legarda, Ralph Recto, Manny Villar, former Sen. Nikki Coseteng, Justices Andres Reyes Jr. and Bienvenido Reyes, who all wished nothing but the best for the couple. A lavish reception followed at the Museum of the Filipino People, right next to the main National Museum Building in Manila. Guests savored the scrumptious dishes prepared by seasoned chef Margarita Fores. It was definitely a treat for the couple and their guests as special performances from Gia Macuja Atchison, who sang Moon River for the couple and a special dance number from Lisa Macuja-Elizalde and Roberto del Rosario. Truly, Ray and Sasha’s story brought “and they lived happily ever after” to the real world.

Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Sasha and Ray with their parents broadcasting mogul Fred Elizalde and prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde with fishing magnate Roberto del Rosario and wife Moleen.

Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrator today, Ramon “RJ” Jacinto.

Advanced birthday greetings to Karen Macasaet, June 4; Sen. Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. and Camille Cobankiat, June 5; Eduardo Lopez, Jr., June 6; Robert Mananquil, June 7; Tara Litton, Marivic Concepcion, Miguel Vargas, Alan Antonio, and Nards de Belen, June 8; and Jaja Ledesma, June 9.

So, how was your week?

(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com.)