ONE WORD - BEAUTIFUL

The 50th wedding anniversary and renewal of vows for Chit & Cesar Ambal was spectacular.  The wedding procession started with the parade of the sponsors who were all siblings or relatives of the couple.  The celebrants walked under the traditional arch at the beginning of the aisle.  The men wore the traditional barongs while the women donned dresses that were absolutely gorgeous.  Then came the co sponsors who were the 7 children (6 older sisters and Julius) of Chit & Cesar.  The girls were all dressed in purple and gold long dresses.  Then came the grandchildren.  The girls all wore the same style dress, but the dresses were much shorter and the heels way up there. Then came the happy couple.  Chit's dress was gold and embellished with sequins, beading and rhinestones that glittered and matched her smile.  They joined the parade at the altar - what a sight.

The traditional arch - Mareta & Cole

The wedding party

There was the traditional wedding sermon, the exchange of vows and rings and the placing of the veil on Chit, draped over Cesar and then the symbolic rope around the shoulders of the couple to signify their unity.  (The only distraction was the rock concert being held right next to the church.)  It was such a wonderful ceremony that brought tears to my eyes as they exchanged their vows.
Now, imagine how long the wedding photos took.  There was a photo with each of the sponsors, then all the sponsors, then the co sponsors, then the children, then one side of the family, then the other side of the family.

Chit & Cesar's entire family.

The reception was held at the same place we are staying so that was so convenient.  It was beautfully decorated with the same color scheme.  On the stage there was the cake and wedding table for the couple.  The "program" started again with the entrance, the same as at the church.  I loved how they called the people to eat - they drew a table number and that table went up to have their photo taken with the couple on stage and then they headed to the buffet line.  There was a song performed by the entire family to their guests, a dance number from some of the grandchildren, a poem read by friend, a song sung by a family member, toasts, announcing of the grandchildren's academic accomplishments, the cutting of the cake and a short word of thanks from Chit & Cesar.  Then the dancing began - Filipino's love to dance.  No hanging back, as they had three dance instructors who grabbed the seniors and hauled them out to the dance floor.  Beautiful ballroom dancing and great group line dances - something for everyone.
All I can say is that it was such a wonderful memorable experience.  Chit & Cesar - both retired dentists - have reared 7 children who are all accomplished professionals.  50 years and what a legacy they have started.  I was so honored to have been included in this celebration.

The happy couple.