We have met before and have exchanged the obligatory greetings whenever we crossed paths. One must remember that Cebu is a small big town – or is it a big small city, if you know what I mean? And that was that, until one recent evening, at the beautifully-decorated lobby of the Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino Pilipino Mactan, I happily sat through a lovely fashion show featuring his creations. It was the grand finale of a three-day first-ever bridal fair entitled "Unveiled" in the resort island of Mactan.
The show was utterly stunning. Dexter Alazas is a revelation.
Gifted and talented that he is, the couturier showcased elegant gowns with full straight skirts in pure white and in classic shades of pale ivory. In direct contrast, he presented some dramatic gowns with flirty bustles in rich jewel colors. And it did not end there. Among the much-applauded numbers were those inspired by the different fashion eras from the medieval period, from the Elizabethan age to the Roaring ’20s, and influenced by distinct cultures.
How I recall the three professional models standing side by side in the elaborate, theatrical Japanese kimono, the all-embroidered Filipiniana attire complete with the familiar butterfly sleeves and the chic elegance of a Jackie O.-inspired gown in all its chasteness simplicity. It was a brilliant display of skill, craftsmanship and mastery.
With the Bridal Acoustics Ensemble providing the nuptial symphony in the background, I leisurely made my way through an excellent exhibition of products and services, all essential components in the preparation needed to make dream weddings come true.
My favorite were Kalidades who outdid themselves with their several eye-catching floral arrangements and Cebu Culinary Center, headed by Theresa Gallargo, who had a vast display of wedding cakes in various shapes, sizes and flavors.
According to executive assistant manager Lourdes Yu and media relations officer Joann Castillo, there was more to what I experienced that evening.
Many activities were lined up throughout the event, including make-up techniques by artist Gary Son and Roy Tizon, total hair makeover by stylist Romero Vergara and lectures on planning one’s wedding and wedding etiquette by events coordinators Ma. Fe Acusar and Cristina Sy.
As I had one good final look at all things bridal that surrounded me, complete with an image of a sensational wedding gown executed by fashion designer Dexter Alazas, I could not help but smile between blinks of an unforgettable, memorable wedding celebration all lovers fantasize about.