From historic landmark hotels to spectacular restaurants to dazzling destinations, let your fairy-tale wedding fabulously unfold at one of these romantic venues.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
It can't get any more tender than exchanging "I do" by the picturesque Manila Bay as the sun sets softly on your al fresco garden nuptials. The sprawling resort hotel grounds offer couples a luxurious tropical haven and all the trappings of a grand affair, which thanks to the sophisticated ambience of the Grand Plaza Ballroom, renders the hotel an ideal venue not only for the ceremony, but for the reception too. The ballroom can accommodate 1,000 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 1,400 for cocktails. For larger celebrations, marquees may be set up on the garden for a company of 2,000.
Manila Peninsula
Where does one begin? This striking hotel boasts a majestic and breathtaking lobby, which leaves a warm and lasting impression of splendour on visitors. A bridal dream, the Rigodon Ballroom is a light and more airy space while the Conservatory with its spectacular windows is a wonderful option.
Marriott Hotel Manila
Of late, the Marriott Hotel Manila has upped the ante on big affairs having opened the doors of its new Grand Ballroom, an elegantly designed event space featuring majestic high ceilings that are great for dressing up for themed weddings. Sit back in bridal bliss and let your wedding planner collaborate with certified Marriott wedding planners so that every table setting, every confection, every morsel, every song and every moment is fashioned to your vision of perfection. All you have to do is show up!
Shangri-La at The Fort
The hottest five-star hotel on the burgeoning Bonifacio Global City block has already hosted a slew of grander than grand weddings for a number of power couples what with its impressive lobby accented with elaborate chandeliers and beautifully curated hallways and spaces filled with unique art installations. Bring your vision of grandeur with you and leave the rest to the Shangri-La.
Makati Shangri-La
The five-star home to the largest and one of the most contemporary ballrooms in the country, the regal Rizal, is where many a wedding reception (of the massive and decadent kind) has been held and well documented. Situated in the middle of the CBD, the hotel becomes the ideal albeit luxurious answer to your dream reception requirements.
Bellevue Bohol
Arguably the best experience to be had in Bohol (besides seeing the Tarsier in the fur or the awe-inspiring Chocolate Hills), the five-star eco-savvy Bellevue Resort is a serene haven that sits peacefully on the sun-bleached shores of Panglao Island. A recipient of the ASEAN Green Hotel Award, this paradise awaits couples who appreciate natural beauty and peace. Serving international to authentic local dishes, the Bellevue Pavillion can accommodate up to 500. A bonus? That amazing Boholano hospitality.
Lagen Island Resort
Design your exclusive albeit exotic island destination wedding to a T and let it unravel at Lagen Island Resort in El Nido, Palawan. Say "I do" at the resort's very own Oratory Chapel and then bring the wedding brigade poolside or by the beach for an unforgettable reception party. Celebrate your love in a stunning setting surrounded by natural beauty. What more could a couple (and guests) ask for?
Amanpulo, Palawan
If sparkling white sandy beaches, clear blue skies, azure waters, and hot weather is your thing, then look no further than Palawan's picture perfect and very exclusive Amanpulo to tie the knot. Find your happy place by the beach and exchange vows before the golden sunset. When the party's died down and romantic downtime is what you need, the gorgeous private villas are literally everything you could ever wish for.
Balay Dako
Couples in search of a more local flavour will adore this place. Anything and everything that hails from Chef Tony Boy Escalante's kitchen (see Antonio's) is tantamount to epicurean excellence. His Antonio's menu being more intercontinental, this time around, the chef has transitioned from global to local: proudly serving puritan Filipino cuisine (in a truly native sense that is in no way tinged with external influences). Balay Dako, in fact means "Big House" in the Negrense dialect which is where families congregated to celebrate birthdays and big familial occasions. Completing the romantic experience is the fact that it posseses a sweeping view of the dormant Taal volcano and lake.
Antonio's
An hour or so drive up to the Tagaytay mountain ridge from Manila is the ultimate in destination dining: Antonio's. It is also top of mind for wedding receptions thanks to the cooler microclimate, most exceptional cuisine, elegant interiors, and breathtakingly unique setting, customisable menus and wine selections. The Green Garden is a pretty receiving area for cocktails and great for al fresco events. Overlooking the entire restaurant, the intimate dining area of the Chef's Room can accommodate up to 70 guests and just around the corner, the Cabana, meanwhile, is a larger more private structure that can cater up to 150. For occasions reaching the 300 mark, Antonio's may be exclusively closed off but booking a year in advance is highly advisable.
Champagne Room, Manila Hotel
The legendary home away from home for General Douglas MacArthur, this storied Grand Dame (as this landmark five-star hotel is fondly known), which looks out onto the romanticised Manila Bay has long been favoured by the rich an politically famous. Built in 1909, the oldest premier hotel in the Philippines boasts amazing restaurants, one of which is the Champagne Room and within is the Champagne Salon, perfect for scaled down (say 150) yet stately events. The Champagne Room, however, in all its grandeur and old-world glamour, makes for a most stunning backdrop for a larger and more lavish affair as it effortlessly demonstrates the heritage hotel's passion for tradition and opulence.